Company Interview / How AI is turning travel into a strategic asset

Key points:

AI is transforming travel and expense management into a more strategic, integrated processEnhanced automation is streamlining both pre-trip and post-trip processes for users and finance teamsIncreased vigilance is required as AI raises both the risk and prevention of fraud in expense claimsQuality data and AI-driven insights are enabling organisations to reduce costs and make better decisions

Jonathan Beeby from SAP Concur Australia and New Zealand sees artificial intelligence (AI) as a transformative force in travel and expense (T&E) management as organisations approach 2026. Beeby states that what was once a purely financial back-office function is evolving into a strategic driver, giving companies the ability to measure the value and impact of travel more precisely. AI is now making it possible to integrate and consolidate pre-trip approvals and post-trip expense management, producing a streamlined, end-to-end process that simplifies both the user experience and oversight for audit and finance teams.

Beeby notes that AI is freeing employees - from travellers to finance operators - to focus on higher-value tasks rather than tedious administrative work. By automating processes such as generating competitive travel quotes and validating expense transactions, SAP Concur aims to deliver a simpler, faster user experience. Back-office teams can therefore devote more attention to strategic oversight and ensure that spending is judicious and compliant.

While AI plays a critical role in monitoring for fraud - such as detecting fake receipts - Beeby highlights that technology alone is not sufficient. Strong policies, governance, and human oversight must complement AI. Ultimately, accurate data powered by AI not only helps organisations reduce costs through fraud detection and eliminating duplicate payments but also supports more informed business travel decisions.