Not everyone can say they genuinely drive change through their work. But management accountancy isn’t like other professions. It’s not just about number crunching: management accountants steer business and equip them to meet the challenges of the future. Those challenges could be financial – or they could be broader.
The business landscape is changing. Leaders are realising the need to focus on people and purpose – not profit. But it’s not a change that will happen overnight. As AICPA & CIMA Vice President of Research, Dr Ian Selby, says:
Meaningful and impactful change never comes quickly or easily. Especially when that change relates to culture, process, systems, and finance. But change is required, indeed it is imperative. We need more resilient, well-run companies, making better decisions, delivering product, service and business model innovations that generate true value and contribute to a flourishing society.
Management accountants are key to driving this change – and it certainly makes for an exciting time to be a part of our profession. Change may not come easily, but AICPA & CIMA are with you every step of the way. Here’s what we’re doing to help build a better business world, for everyone.
Helping businesses be change makers
Historically, businesses were managed with a top-down, hierarchical approach. Leaders know that method won’t cut it now, particularly in a world where employees’ mental health has to be a priority.
Businesses know they need to change, but many aren’t sure what that change looks like. How can they create a culture that truly engages their people?
Together with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, AICPA & CIMA have put together Reimaging Performance Management, the result of an in-depth, global research project.
The paper can be used as a guide for leaders to change the way the ir employees are motivated, along with how their performance at work is measured, monitored and managed. Whatever your position in a company, it’s a fascinating, inspiring read.
Working towards a better future
The effects of climate change are already being felt around the world. With the UK pledging to be a net zero economy by 2050, AICPA & CIMA have been working closely with the Accounting for Sustainability (A4S) movement. Provide our members with the training, support and infrastructure they need to apply their skills to the challenge.
Along with 13 other professional accounting bodies, we’ve committed to reach net zero carbon emissions as soon as possible. You can expect to see our net zero plan in the next 12 months, and we’ll deliver a yearly update on progress after that.
Why is it so important that we take this stance? Barry Melancon, CEO of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA & CIMA), explains:
Public and management accountants have an important role to play improving an organisation's integrated thinking and decision-making capabilities to promote responsible and sustainable business practices. They have the necessary skills and expertise to help affect meaningful change in this area. As an organisation, we are fully committed to doing our part and will continue to help our members, their organisations, and their clients across the globe support this mission.
We’ve also pledged to advise the government with developing policies and creating infrastructure to aid our transition to a low carbon economy, as well as helping our members with any training, resources or support that they need to reach net zero carbon emissions.
