AI, layoffs, and the rise of culture-first CFOs
If Ted Lasso has taught us anything, it’s that culture is everything. The mustachioed optimist didn’t turn AFC Richmond into champions through tactical brilliance alone—he did it by building a team that believed in itself, its values, and each other. Surprisingly, tech CFOs are taking a page from his playbook.
A new survey from Grant Thornton reveals that 58% of tech CFOs now see organizational culture as their top priority for human capital investment. For leaders grappling with economic pressures, the rise of AI, and a hyper-competitive talent market, the lesson is clear: Success isn’t just about strategy; it’s about the people who execute it.
“Culture is no longer just an HR issue,” said Andrea Schulz, National Managing Principal of Technology at Grant Thornton Advisors LLC. “It’s a boardroom issue. CFOs are realizing that the way to drive performance is by creating environments where employees thrive.”
In 2025, the focus has shifted. Culture isn’t just a feel-good concept—it’s the key to navigating disruption and unlocking innovation. And just like Ted Lasso’s belief in “Believe,” CFOs are betting on culture to lead the way.
For years, the tech industry was defined by aggressive growth strategies, often prioritizing speed and scalability over employee satisfaction. Now, as the sector faces economic headwinds and an evolving workforce, CFOs are refocusing on building cultures that prioritize shared values, professional growth, and long-term engagement.
Culture is not just a buzzword. It’s a measurable asset. Finance leaders are using initiatives like diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) programs, enhanced benefits, and rotational leadership opportunities to ensure their organizations appeal to top-tier talent. These measures aim to build a workforce that is not only skilled but also deeply aligned with the company’s mission and vision.
“Employees today are looking for more than a paycheck—they want to feel connected to their work,” explained Jesse Leder, Senior Manager of Growth Advisory at Grant Thornton. “Clear paths for career advancement and leadership development are critical to making them stay.”
While culture dominates human capital priorities, technology investments are also top of mind for CFOs. The survey revealed that 58% of respondents plan to expand AI capabilities in 2025, reflecting the growing role of generative AI and automation in reshaping business processes.
But these technological advancements bring new challenges. As AI disrupts traditional roles, including those once considered untouchable like software development, companies must ensure employees feel supported in adapting to the new landscape.
“AI is creating opportunities and risks,” said Alon Avdi, Senior Manager of Growth Advisory Services at Grant Thornton. “CFOs are focused on balancing automation with human expertise, ensuring employees stay relevant and valued as roles evolve.”
This balancing act is critical as 46% of CFOs anticipate potential layoffs due to economic pressures within the next six months. By integrating AI thoughtfully, companies can mitigate costs without sacrificing morale or innovation.
Another area where culture and technology intersect is cybersecurity. While AI enhances defenses, human error remains the top vulnerability. The survey found that 33% of CFOs are prioritizing cybersecurity training and awareness—though this marks a slight decline from 37% last year.
“As cyber threats become more sophisticated, training employees to recognize and address risks is more important than ever,” Schulz emphasized. “Your biggest cybersecurity risk will always be your people.”
Additionally, partnerships with external security firms have surged, with 21% of CFOs citing this as a priority, up from just 9% a year ago. These collaborations offer access to specialized expertise that many companies lack in-house, enabling them to stay ahead of evolving threats.
For CFOs, culture is no longer an intangible concept. It’s a critical factor in navigating the complexities of today’s business environment. Whether it’s retaining top talent, implementing AI, or bolstering cybersecurity, the thread connecting these efforts is a strong organizational culture.
“Culture is the foundation of a company’s success,” Schulz said. “CFOs are leading the charge in making it a strategic focus, ensuring their organizations are prepared to thrive in an unpredictable future.”