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Key Impact Points:
- KPMG and ACCA launch a pioneering ESG programme to equip accountants and non-accountants with essential sustainability skills.
- Responds to urgent industry needs highlighted by the Accountancy Workforce Review Committee (AWRC) report for enhanced ESG capabilities.
- Offers free foundational and advanced tracks, culminating in joint certification, to prepare professionals for future leadership roles in sustainability.
KPMG in Singapore and ACCA have introduced an innovative ESG learning programme aimed at equipping both accountants and non-accountants with future-ready skills in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. This initiative directly addresses the urgent need for enhanced ESG capabilities in the accountancy profession, as highlighted by the Accountancy Workforce Review Committee (AWRC) report released in May 2024.
“To redesign the accountancy workforce, we must attract new talent by prioritising adaptability, collaboration and innovation. Today’s accountants are not just guardians but strategic advisors, guiding businesses through complex challenges. Trust remains at the core of our profession, particularly in areas like ESG assurance and AI governance. Our collaboration with ACCA to introduce the ESG future skills programme is more than just providing access—it is about building on qualities and fundamentals that accountants already possess and applying these to emerging areas. This approach ensures that accountants can confidently navigate and address the practical challenges of a rapidly changing business environment, all while maintaining the essential trust that underpins our profession,” said Alex Koh, Partner and Head of Audit, KPMG in Singapore.
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The programme features two masterclass tracks:
- Foundational ESG Knowledge Track: Offered at no cost, this track covers climate risk, reporting, and measurements. It’s accessible to new graduates and professionals from any background, preparing them for roles like climate and impact reporting accountants and sustainability finance consultants. Eligible participants may also engage in industry attachments with KPMG.
- Advanced Track for Senior Finance Leaders: This track enhances strategic and technical expertise for seasoned professionals, preparing them for positions such as Chief Sustainability Officers, Chief Financial Officers, or heads of ESG audit and assurance.
“Sustainability is a top priority for businesses, governments, and the public sector. Finance professionals play a crucial role in driving and implementing sustainable practices across a wide range of organisations,” said Daniel Leung, Country Manager, ACCA Singapore. “ACCA is proud to partner with KPMG to launch this important programme, which will equip industry talents with the skills needed to shape a sustainable future. This initiative also aligns perfectly with our Annual Conference theme, ‘Reinventing the Profession for a Changed World,’ as we continue to foster the flexible skills necessary for the evolving profession.”
Participants will engage with industry experts from both KPMG and ACCA, gaining practical skills and insights. Both tracks culminate in a joint certificate from KPMG and ACCA, validating the participants’ proficiency in integrating sustainable and ethical strategies into their roles.
This collaboration not only addresses the evolving skill requirements in the accountancy sector but also diversifies the talent pipeline by welcoming those without traditional accounting backgrounds. It underscores the expanding role of accountants in leading sustainable business practices across industries.