Into the world of automation and innovation, with Ionuț Petroiu, Automation Manager

Hello, Ionuț, thank you for joining our discussion today! Firstly, let’s get to know you better. What is your current role in the Forvis Mazars team?   

Ionut: I am an Automation Manager within the Outsourcing – Accounting department of Forvis Mazars in Romania. I focus on identifying opportunities to streamline processes and bring more value through automation and digital solutions. I work closely with my colleagues to design tools that reduce manual work and improve efficiency.   

How does a day in your life look like? Take us through your tasks and responsibilities.   

Ionut: My day starts pretty early and always with some good music in the car, while I drive my kids to school.   

I usually arrive at the office around 8:40 and make myself a coffee, with no sugar, of course. Throughout the day, I move between analysing processes, designing or refining automation solutions, supporting implementation and collaborating with different teams.  

There’s also a strong people component, seen through mentoring, knowledge sharing, and helping colleagues understand how technology can simplify their work. Overall, my days are a mix of technical and strategic tasks, which I enjoy.  

Can you tell us more about your professional journey so far?   

Ionut: I started my career in accounting in my first year of university, one month before my studies even began, to be exact. During my undergraduate studies, I worked part-time, about four hours a day. Once I began my master’s programme, I transitioned to a full-time schedule, which gave me a very solid understanding of the financial processes.   

I gradually became fascinated by how technology could transform repetitive tasks and improve workflows. That curiosity led me to explore automation tools, learn new skills and eventually steer my career toward innovation.  

It wasn’t a sudden jump, but more of a step‑by‑step journey of learning and embracing change. Looking back, every experience contributed to where I am today.  

How was the shift from accounting towards automation and innovation and how did you manage this change? How impactful was the support of your team during this change?   

Ionut: It was both challenging and exciting, I think. I had to change not only my skill set, but also my mindset. Instead of working within processes, I began looking at how to improve or redesign them.  

The support from my colleagues and mentors made a huge difference. They believed in my plan, encouraged experimentation and embraced new ways of thinking. That kind of trust gives you the confidence to grow and take bold steps.   

With time, you built quite an amazing team of professionals around you, and I know they consider you first and foremost a mentor, rather than a manager. How would you describe your relationship and your dynamic with them?  

Ionut: I see our relationship as a partnership built on mutual trust, respect and shared passion. I try to support each team member in developing their own strengths and discovering what motivates them. My approach is hands-on, yet empowering – I guide them, but I also give them space to experiment, learn, and make decisions.  

We support, challenge, and trust each other. To me, mentorship is not about teaching, but about growing together.  

It helps that we enjoy spending time together, at work and outside of it. We often organise activities such as climbing, bouldering, hiking, or simply spending time together in different settings.    

I know it’s common for people to only be interested in the results when it comes to work. Personally, I believe that how you spend those eight hours every day and with whom are just as important.   

What brought you together and what healthy practices can you share from your experience as a manager that make your team stronger? 

Ionut: What unites us is curiosity and the desire to improve the way we work. We all come from different backgrounds, but we share the same drive for efficiency, quality and innovation.  

Some practices that help us stay strong include:  

• Open communication – we constantly share ideas, questions, and feedback.  
• Continuous learning – every project is an opportunity to improve.  
• Autonomy with support – everyone has ownership, but no one is alone.  
• Celebrating progress – we acknowledge even small achievements.  
• Time spent together – connecting as people.   

These practices help build a positive environment where creativity thrives.  

How do you approach continuous learning and what role does it play in your development?  

Ionut: Continuous learning is essential in our field. Technology evolves so quickly that you need to stay curious and adaptable. I learn through courses, articles, experimentation and discussions with colleagues. 

For me, learning has become a natural part of the job.  

How do you see the future of automation and innovation? How will it continue to shape accounting and financial services?   

Ionut: Automation will continue to move from “nice to have” to “standard practice.” Repetitive tasks will be performed increasingly by intelligent systems, enabling professionals to focus on analysis, strategy and advisory roles.  

AI and machine learning will play a major role in data processing, accuracy and real‑time insights. I see a future where accountants are empowered by technology, not replaced by it.  

What are the career opportunities within this field?   

Ionut: The number of opportunities is growing rapidly. You can build a career in process automation, digital transformation, data analytics, AI, or innovation management.  

The great thing is that you don’t need to start with a technical background. If you’re curious, eager to learn and understand business processes, you can develop a hybrid skill set that’s very much in demand.  

We have a lot of young people following us, at the beginning stages of their careers, what would your advice to them be? What are the essential steps they should take, the important aspects they should pay attention to?   

Ionut: Be curious, ask questions and don’t be afraid of new things. Your career doesn’t have to follow a straight line, every step teaches you something valuable. 

Build strong fundamentals, stay close to technology, look for mentors, and take initiative whenever you can. And above all, choose a path that inspires you. When you enjoy what you do, growth comes naturally.  

Thank you, Ionuț, for this inspiring chat! It’s safe to say that it will serve our readers well, at the beginning of their careers. 

Are you on the lookout for the next adventure? You’re in the right place! Our team is growing, and we are eager to welcome by our side some curious, ambitious people, ready to take the initiative. Apply now and join our team!