Research and Insights Event on Smart Finance and Ethics conducted in Islamabad

ACCA held two sessions on the importance of ‘Smart Finance Function’ and ‘Ethics’ in the accountancy profession in Islamabad.

The events provided an opportunity for the finance professionals to benefit from case studies of successful and distinct businesses from different cross-sections of industries in Pakistan underlining the importance of investing in the corporate finance function. The session on Ethics consisted of a presentation, which was delivered to give an overview of professional ethics directed at accountants – in business and in practice.  

Arif Mirza (ACCA), Head of Policy MENASA, ACCA Pakistan spoke to the audience and stressed on how the quality of finance leadership, the adoption of breakthrough technologies, better people practices, and innovative thinking can transform the corporate finance function; making it increasingly smarter and relevant for the business.

Amir Shafique, Director Finance Telenor Shared Services, appreciated ACCA efforts and was keen to have more sessions with ACCA related to Smart Finance. He stated that, “Successful alignment of the finance organisation to the strategy of the business is essential. To transform the finance structure, the future CFO team must ensure the right processes; systems and metrics are in place which will also aid strategy execution. Finance leaders will need to prioritise investment in technology to drive growth and digital technologies will become a core finance leadership enabler in all businesses.

Qasim Malik, HR Manager – SNL Pakistan highlighted, “The session on ‘Ethics’ was extremely relevant for young employees and that as trusted professionals you have a responsibility to promote ethical rganiza. When faced with an ethical dilemma, you would like your rganization to support you in making the right decision.  Therefore, you might lead on implementing a code within your rganization.  But a code alone is not enough.”