Gabriella (Gabby) Kusz was widely respected across the global financial and accountancy community—not only for her expertise but for the energy, warmth and purpose she brought to everything she did. A consummate professional, vibrant, curious, and deeply engaged with people, Gabby had a remarkable ability to draw others in, energize a room, and make even the most technical conversations feel meaningful and inspiring. She brought people together naturally and made the work feel bigger than any one individual. Her kindness, openness, and sense of humor made her equally valued as both a colleague and a friend. 

Throughout her career, Gabby helped shape and implement international accountancy development models and worked to strengthen institutions that support sustainable economic development, always with integrity, thoughtfulness, and a deep commitment to the public interest. She was passionate about global engagement and never hesitated to travel, immerse herself in new cultures, and build connections across borders – qualities that made her especially effective within IFAC’s global community. She approached new places, new people, and new ideas with genuine curiosity and an open mind. 

Gabby and Vickson Ncube, then CEO of PAFA, at the first MOSAIC Steering Committee meeting, India, Oct 2012.

Gabby worked for IFAC during two separate periods of her career, making valuable contributions on both occasions. She played a key role in IFAC’s professional accountancy organization (PAO) development work, including helping to establish the MOSAIC partnership, shaping the PAO Development Advisory Group, and developing numerous PAO development and capacity-building resources – many of which continue to support organizations around the world today. Her contributions spanned many different areas and reflected both the breadth of her expertise and her commitment to strengthening the profession. She also worked at the World Bank and the CARANA Corporation, where she continued her work to advance strong financial systems and capacity building around the world. She was recognized  as an “Emerging Leader” by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs in June 2022.  

Gabby was also a generous mentor and champion for others. She regularly took people under her wing, helping colleagues and emerging professionals feel supported, confident, and capable. She respected the perspectives of newer and more junior colleagues, took time to listen, and welcomed fresh ideas from those new to the space. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she launched a virtual mentoring circle that connected early- and later-career professional women, reflecting her enduring commitment to helping others grow and succeed. Many who worked alongside Gabby learned a great deal from her—not only about managing relationships and navigating complex challenges, but also about leadership, professionalism, and how to support others with care. She was known for offering thoughtful advice and being a trusted listening ear during both professional and personal challenges. Her influence can be seen not only in the initiatives she led, but in the many people she encouraged along the way. 

Gabby passed away on April 13, 2026. She will be remembered not only for her professional accomplishments, but also for the lasting impact she had on colleagues, partners, and the wider profession. She inspired many in ways both large and small, and her absence will be deeply felt. Her contributions to the accounting profession will continue to be felt for many years to come.  

Gabby’s Obituary | Gabby’s Memorial Website 

A frequent contributor to the IFAC Knowledge Gateway, some of Gabby’s contributions to the profession are linked below.