I can hardly believe that this is my last column for AB. It seems only a week ago that I accepted the honour of my life, the presidency of ACCA – but here we are, nearly a year down the road.
It’s been such a lot of fun, and an utter privilege to represent all my dear friends – members, future members and affiliates – at events around the world.
Of course, in this brave, new, post-pandemic world, most engagements have been online. But nonetheless it’s been a joy to spend time with so many brilliant people in so many countries.
A glance at my calendar for the past 12 months shows that if there was such a thing as a ‘digital passport’, mine would feature stamps from 30 places, across six of the seven continents.
I already knew, of course, that ACCA was highly respected all over the world. But I was still touched and taken aback to experience the sheer depths of affection and admiration people feel for it – members and non-members alike. Their enthusiasm is infectious.
I’ve been amazed by just how much our members are prepared to give of themselves
I often say that ACCA is more than a business association. It is a family. And the proof of that was made abundantly clear by the warmth of audiences everywhere.
In the last year I have been eager to share my passion for spreading opportunities, in people’s lives and careers. So many of my messages have been about how we can support others; how we build skills and improve employability. I’ve been amazed by just how much our members are prepared to give of themselves in these areas.
Regardless of the pandemic, or economic or geo-political upheaval, our members always give back. We truly are stronger together, and it has been a delight to see those qualities displayed all over the ACCA world.
Presidents come and presidents go, but ACCA carries on – devoted to giving the world the accountancy profession it needs
To sign off, I want to thank all members for the ceaseless support and encouragement they have given me – not only in the past year, but in my 25 years’ involvement with ACCA. I’d also like to express deep gratitude to my parents, who have always encouraged me and cheered me from the sidelines. I owe them everything.
Presidents come and presidents go, but ACCA carries on – devoted to giving the world the accountancy profession it needs, expanding opportunity, inspired by the ideals of innovation, integrity and inclusion. It’s what makes us the greatest professional accountancy body in the world.
Thanks a million, and best of luck to you all.
