Global Delivery, Global Opportunity

ACCA is now the international market leader by size in 47 markets and, based on independent surveys in 15 markets, it has increased its reputation among employers of accountants over the last five years. ACCA achieved its growth targets in 2006, with a 13.8% increase in total student numbers and 5.3% increase in total members. All these achievements make ACCA the world’s largest and fastest-growing global professional accountancy body.
ACCA has achieved this position by focusing on global delivery and global opportunity. ACCA’s global infrastructure means that exams and support are delivered at local level, together with reputation and influence building, directly benefiting stakeholders wherever they are based - or plan to move to in pursuit of new career opportunities. More importantly, ACCA has developed according to a unique set of values which set it apart in the accountancy profession - in particular, by championing opportunity, diversity and integrity.

Highlights of 2006

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In 2006, ACCA expanded its global accountancy partnerships. New mutual recognition agreements (MRAs) were agreed in Canada and Hong Kong with the Certified General Accountants Association of Canada (CGA-Canada) and the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA). Of particular significance is the range of partnerships ACCA now enjoys, with agreements relating to joint qualifications, regulation, continuing professional development, technical research and the promotion of further qualifications, such as the Diploma in International Financial Reporting. New contracts obtained to support regional and national bodies in delivering quality assurance and audit monitoring have helped to position ACCA as a global leader in audit regulation: ACCA now works with the East, Central and Southern African Federation of Accountants (ECSAFA), the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Cyprus (ICPAC) and the Malta Institute of Accountants (MIA).

ACCA redesigned and launched its professional qualification, with a greater emphasis on professionalism and ethics at its core, increased flexibility with respect to specialist options, and a new framework for practical experience requirements, based on competences and the achievement of performance objectives.

ACCA's platinum sponsorship of the World Congress of Accountants in Istanbul, organised by the Turkish accountancy profession and the International Federation of Accountants, demonstrated that ACCA is a leading voice in the global accountancy profession.

A range of new partnerships with professional bodies and academic institutions (including e-learning) have extended the opportunities for members to obtain further professional development to acquire specialist skills or qualifications in broader strategy. With 78,900 members having commenced their CPD requirements under ACCA Realise in 2005 and 2006, attendance at ACCA-organised CPD events has increased to over 88,000. ACCA was pleased to announce a global partnership with the Securities and Investment Institute, providing members with access to additional qualifications and services in the financial services sector.

ACCA provided significant input into legislative developments in many countries, especially in relation to accounting standard interpretations in the UK.
Work continued to ensure ACCA is an efficient and effective organisation, through a restructuring of the customer services operation, investment in global technology infrastructure, and realised savings of £800,000 through outsourcing print and distribution of printed materials in the UK.

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