A two‑day Global Business Services & Outsourcing (BSO) Conference was held in Athens, bringing together representatives of the BDO network from around the world to discuss key trends shaping the profession, technology, and client service.
BDO in Ukraine was represented at the event by Victor Nevmerezhitsky, who participated in discussions on strategic initiatives and exchanged practical experience with colleagues from other countries.
This year, the conference focused on the transformation of accounting services. Key topics included:
- the shift from traditional accounting to creating added value for clients through advisory services
- the active implementation of digital solutions
- the large‑scale use of artificial intelligence to automate routine processes
Special attention was given to the development of AI solutions within BDO. The discussion focused on the strategy for creating AI agents to perform repetitive operations, as well as their application in client service. The organisers also announced the continued rollout of such tools across the network, including solutions designed for the initial analysis of new client enquiries.
According to Victor Nevmerezhitsky, Tax and BSO Partner at BDO in Ukraine: “Today, the accounting profession is undergoing a significant transformation — moving away from traditional bookkeeping towards the role of a business partner that creates additional value for clients through advisory services in related areas. In doing so, one of the key drivers of this transformation is artificial intelligence: maximising its use to automate routine and repetitive processes has become a priority, particularly through the implementation of an AI agent development strategy. This allows teams to work more efficiently and focus on more complex and analytical tasks.”
Significant attention was also given to service quality, the transformation of the payroll function, innovation in technology, data, and operating models, as well as approaches to the design, pricing, and delivery of outsourcing solutions.
As part of the conference, participants took part in a series of practical workshops focused on the development of key BSO priorities. In particular, the innovation session explored how to build an effective and well‑governed AI strategy, assessed organisations’ readiness for the adoption of artificial intelligence, and reviewed practical use cases of AI in action.
The growth workshop focused on identifying pathways to growth in a challenging market environment, facilitating cross‑country experience sharing, and defining effective approaches to enhancing competitiveness.
Special focus was also placed on the transformation of the people operating model. Participants discussed skills development, the cultivation of a modern mindset, and approaches to attracting and retaining talent within BSO. In addition, sessions dedicated to the development of international client relationships explored practical tools for strengthening cross‑country collaboration, establishing a unified approach to client service, and expanding opportunities for cross‑border projects.
A key highlight of the conference was the recognition of regional achievements. The Central and Eastern Europe Cluster (BDO CEE Cluster), which includes Ukraine, received an award for its collective performance and innovation. We sincerely congratulate all countries within the Cluster and thank our partners for their effective collaboration, knowledge sharing, and joint development within the global BDO network.
Looking ahead, the focus will be on identifying routine processes within the Tax Advisory function and developing AI agents to automate them, enabling greater operational efficiency.
Participation in the Global BSO Conference has provided additional momentum for the further development of the BSO practice at BDO in Ukraine. The insights gained will be used to enhance internal processes and expand the range of services offered with a particular focus placed on the implementation of digital solutions and the use of artificial intelligence in operational activities. This will allow us to increase efficiency and offer clients more comprehensive solutions across accounting, outsourcing, and advisory services.
Contact BDO in Ukraine to receive support in implementing modern financial and operational solutions for your business.
