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ACCA and IFAC explore how to boost PFM reforms around the world

International public sector experts will share good practices in professionalisation of public sector finance, and discuss attraction and retention challenges and opportunities.

Jun 6, 2023 | New York, New York | English

Event will be held online July 13 from 1:00-2:00pm CEST / 7:00-8:00am EDT

According to a  Global Guide for Professionalisation in Public Sector Finance published by ACCA and IFAC, achieving professionalisation brings multiple benefits to the economy, governments and individuals. Public financial management (PFM) reforms will only be achieved if finance professionals have the right skills and knowledge and if the public sector is able to attract and retain the right people.

But this is becoming more challenging in a world where the public sector is increasingly competing for talent, despite the tangible advantages of a finance career in the public sector, as highlighted in the latest ACCA’s Global Talent Trends 2023: Public Sector report.

Join ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and IFAC (the International Federation of Accountants) for a live global webinar to explore:

  1. How governments are professionalising their finance functions and building their capacity and capabilities to improve public service outcomes and ultimately deliver value for citizens.
  2. How to make public employment and management systems better able to attract, recruit and retain the best talents to achieve successful professionalization.

Helen Brand, chief executive of ACCA, said: “Professionalising the public finance function requires political will, the right structures and governance, adoption of appropriate policies, and a commitment to continuous development and improvement. Achieving professionalisation brings multiple benefits to individual professionals, governments, and the wider economy. It means greater financial credibility, improved financial management in the public sector, and greater access to diverse career options for individuals.”

"The professionalisation of public sector finance functions is crucial for effective governance and sustainable economic development. By nurturing a highly skilled and accountable workforce, we can increase transparency, efficiency, and trust in the management of public finances”, said Kevin Dancey, IFAC CEO. “Attracting top talent is key to enhance the profession's capacity to navigate complex financial and social challenges and drive positive change in the public sector."

The event will feature:  

  • Tracey Carroll, First Assistant Secretary, Financial Analysis, Reporting and Controlling, Federal Ministry of Australia
  • Lorena Rivero del Paso, Public Financial Management Advisor, IMF
  • Dónal Mulligan, Policy Analyst, Public Employment and Management, OECD
  • Alex Metcalfe, Global Head of Public Sector, ACCA
  • Laura Leka, Principal, IFAC,

The event is free to attend and will be held in English via zoom. View the agenda and register now.  

About IFAC 

IFAC is the global organization for the accountancy profession dedicated to serving the public interest by strengthening the profession and contributing to the development of strong international economies. IFAC is comprised of 180 members and associates in 135 countries and jurisdictions, representing more than 3 million accountants in public practice, education, government service, industry, and commerce

About ACCA

ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is the global body for professional accountants.

We’re a thriving global community of 241,000 members and 542,000 future members based in 178 countries and regions, who work across a wide range of sectors and industries. We uphold the highest professional and ethical values.

We offer everyone everywhere the opportunity to experience a rewarding career in accountancy, finance and management. Our qualifications and learning opportunities develop strategic business leaders, forward-thinking professionals with the financial, business and digital expertise essential for the creation of sustainable organisations and flourishing societies.

Since 1904, being a force for public good has been embedded in our purpose. In December 2020, we made commitments to the UN Sustainable Development Goals which we are measuring and will report on in our annual integrated report.

We believe that accountancy is a cornerstone profession of society and is vital helping economies, organisations and individuals to grow and prosper. It does this by creating robust trusted financial and business management, combating corruption, ensuring organisations are managed ethically, driving sustainability, and providing rewarding career opportunities.

And through our cutting-edge research, we lead the profession by answering today’s questions and preparing for the future. We’re a not-for-profit organisation. Find out more at accaglobal.com