Future-Proofing Accounts Payable

When we think about the future of accounts payable, automation, new software implementation, and of course the advent and integration of AI in AP platforms comes to mind. But that's only part of the picture. Future projects, company mission pivots, and scaling your AP team are just as much a part of your team's future as the technology itself.

In this session, we'll discuss the importance of practical, hands-on AP experience as AI features become standard in AP platforms. Technology can move fast, but the judgment behind a payment — matching an invoice to PO, understanding vendor relationships, and recognizing the nuance in an exception — still comes from experience. How do we best collaborate using years of AP expertise alongside AI automation, without sacrificing the controls that protect the company's payments? We'll walk through where AI can responsibly take work off your plate, and where human oversight still must lead.

I'll also share strategies for getting ahead of change before it arrives — so your AP team isn't just reacting, it is positioned to rise to the challenge. Whether that means a large cross-functional project, an ERP implementation, a shift in company direction, or simply scaling the team to keep pace with growth, the goal is the same using big picture thinking to set your team up for success.

You'll leave this session with practical takeaways on balancing AI adoption with strong controls, and a framework for building an AP team that's resilient no matter what change comes next.

Patty Dungo Morales 
Accounts Payable Manager, Vast Inc.

Patty Dungo Morales brings more than 18 years of Accounts Payable and finance operations experience, spanning airplane leasing, rocket manufacturing, and — most recently — 2.5 years at Vast Inc., where she built the AP department from the ground up, doubling the team and establishing scalable controls and processes to support the company’s mission to build the world’s first commercial space station.

Patty is an IOFM trainer and instructor for the Accounts Payable Manager Certification program. In June 2026, she completed Harvard’s Women in Leadership: Online Program for Emerging Leaders (offered with Women in Aviation) and looks forward to sharing those insights at the Fall Conference.

Beyond space exploration, Patty is passionate about building trust within AP — fostering strong professional relationships and empowering her team to succeed. She sees AP as more than “keeping the lights on”: it’s a trusted partner in financial accuracy, internal controls, and responsible spending. On weekends, she’s exploring new cities with her husband and daughter, always hunting for great coffee and the best ramen.

Grace Berube
Senior Content Manager, IOFM

Grace is the Senior Content Manager at the Institute of Finance & Management (IOFM), where she has led content strategy and development since 2022. In this role, she oversees all aspects of IOFM’s digital and event-based content, ensuring it remains timely, relevant, and actionable for all financial operations professionals.

Grace manages IOFM’s robust library of site content, leads the organization’s editorial and member webinar programming, and hosts IOFM’s podcast series. She also oversees a team of subject matter experts who contribute thought leadership and educational articles. In additional, Grace curates and manages all speaker content for IOFM’s in-person and virtual events, ensuring consistency and quality across every touchpoint. With nearly three years in the role, Grace brings a deep understanding of the financial operations landscape and a passion for delivering content that empowers professionals to excel in their roles.