NE Chapter of Institute of Chartered Accountants of India Hosts Finance Leadership Forum on Digitization and Automation
BURLINGTON, Mass. — The New England Chapter of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India hosted an evening of professional networking, leadership dialogue, and industry insights on May 9, 2026, at The Treasury, bringing together finance professionals, technology leaders, and members of the Indian diaspora from across the region.
The event, titled “Three Best Practices for Finance Professionals to Drive Business Outcomes Using Digitization & Automation,” focused on how finance organizations can leverage artificial intelligence, automation, governance frameworks, and digital transformation to improve operational efficiency and business performance.
The evening’s chief guest was Raghuram S., whose participation highlighted the growing collaboration between India’s professional diaspora and the innovation ecosystem of Greater Boston.
Organized by the ICAI New England Chapter, which serves Chartered Accountants across the region, the program featured a panel discussion with prominent finance and business leaders, including Sai Gopal, Chief Financial Officer of Cyber-Ninja; Cathy Yang, Chief Financial Officer of Harvey Performance Company; and Shalini Urankar, Chief Executive Officer of IkigAI Advisory. The discussion was moderated by Ravikanth Rao of Practus.
Panelists shared practical insights on the evolving role of finance functions in a technology-driven business environment. A key theme throughout the evening was the importance of balancing innovation with governance and operational discipline.
Sai Gopal emphasized the importance of establishing strong metrics and controls before implementing automation, noting the need to “instrument the finance function before automating it.” Cathy Yang discussed the value of prioritizing digitization initiatives that generate measurable operational returns, while Shalini Urankar spoke about building an “AI-ready” finance organization through investments in governance, talent, and data readiness.
In his keynote address, Consul General Raghuram S. praised the Indian-American professional community in the Boston area and its contributions across industries.
“Boston is home to an exceptionally accomplished Indian diaspora, and the Chartered Accountants community here represents some of the finest ambassadors of India’s professional excellence and leadership,” he said. “It was a privilege to engage with this distinguished group of professionals who are contributing meaningfully across finance, healthcare, innovation, and entrepreneurship.”
He also shared updates regarding the upcoming new premises for the Indian Consulate in Boston, expected to become operational in September 2026. According to the Consul General, the facility will provide expanded passport, visa, and consular services, along with conference and networking spaces intended to support professional associations and diaspora-led initiatives.
Raghuram S. further emphasized that India–United States relations continue to strengthen through innovation, trade, education, and professional collaboration.
Divya Chandra, Chairperson of the ICAI New England Chapter, highlighted the organization’s ongoing efforts to support professional development and community engagement for Chartered Accountants in the region.
She noted that the chapter regularly organizes technical programs, leadership forums, mentorship opportunities, internships, career support initiatives, and networking events designed to strengthen the professional community. She also encouraged collaboration with organizations that share similar professional objectives.
Attendees praised the event for its practical insights into artificial intelligence and automation in finance, as well as the opportunity to connect with industry peers and thought leaders.
The evening concluded with networking and dinner, reinforcing the ICAI New England Chapter’s growing role as a platform for professional collaboration, leadership exchange, and community engagement in the finance sector. The chapter also acknowledged the support of sponsors Practus and Dental Delights for helping make the event possible.
