New ACCA Global Survey Finds Accounting And Finance Profession Viewed As Broadly Inclusive, But With More Progress Needed

Today, ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) released a new report examining the state of diversity and inclusion in the global accounting and finance profession. Through research questions and roundtable discussions, ACCA has gauged opinions from 10,000 ACCA members, affiliates and future members on a wide range of issues relating to diversity and inclusion, starting with the question ‘Are we truly a profession that is open to all?’

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The report offers recommended actions to promote diversity and inclusion in organizations, from establishing a diversity and inclusion policy which sets out organizational principles to leadership principles that sets the tone from the top and holding leaders accountable. ACCA also suggests actions that accountants can take to develop this agenda.

“The foundation of ACCA in 1904 was to create a professional body for accountancy professionals that was open to all,” said Warner Johnston, head of ACCA USA. “As an organization we recognize the work that still needs to be done in order for the accounting and finance profession to truly embody the values of diversity and inclusion, and we will continue to push for change in these areas in order to build a better and more equitable profession.”

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According to the Leading Inclusion report, the majority of the global roundtable participants and 78 percent of survey respondents felt that the profession was open to all, and nearly two-thirds saw a link between diversity and inclusion policies to organizational success.

However, nearly two-thirds still thought that the profession has or might have an issue to deal with when it comes to diversity and inclusion. Globally, 41 percent of respondents said the organization that they work for makes it easy for people from diverse backgrounds to be accepted. Just over half – 52 percent – said everyone in their organization has an equal opportunity to succeed.

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