Finance 2025: Optimizing the close-to-report window

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In our Finance 2025 podcast series, we give listeners a look at the future of finance and the evolutionary road to get there. We’re asking: what will the modern finance organization look like in the year 2025?

This week Heather Horn sat down with Debra Skorupka, a partner in PwC’s finance transformation practice, to discuss what companies with the shortest windows of time between the balance sheet date and filing of reports do differently that allows them to achieve quality results.

In this episode, you’ll find:

• 3:52 - Trends transforming the dynamics of the close process
• 6:58 - How to break down the close process into components that can be optimized individually and holistically
• 13:28 - Real-time close and continuous close: the possibilities beyond the traditional one-time close
• 17:52 - The role of qualitative and quantitative reporting through the lens of the company’s overall strategy
• 22:12 - Addressing change management issues resulting from data-driven transformation
• 27:16 - How to jumpstart transformation with minimal effort
• 31:18 - The future of the close and reporting process

Want to learn more?

• Check out PwC’s Tech Effect, a digital resource for busy leaders.
• Listen to our previous podcasts in the series, Finance 2025: Transformation made practical, Finance 2025: Transforming with a people-first mindset, and Finance 2025: How to unlock the promise of automation.

Debra Skorupka is a partner in PwC’s finance transformation practice. With over 18 years of client service experience, she advises on large-scale transformation projects that result from mergers/IPOs and other significant business changes. Debra leads the Finance & Infrastructure practice for the firm’s Technology, Media, and Telecommunications sector. 

Heather Horn is a Deputy Chief Accountant in PwC’s National Office and leader of the thought leadership group, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series, as well as periodic webcasts for the power and utilities industry. With over 30 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to [email protected].