28/05/2026
Today, we brought together chief executives from across the globe for the virtual IFAC Chief Executivesโ Forum, an energizing conversation about the future of the profession, the power of global connection, and the opportunities shaping accountancy worldwide.
From discussions on AI, technology, audit quality, and sustainability assurance, to inspiring conversations on talent and the โEverything Needs Accountingโ campaign, the Forum reinforced the importance of collaboration, innovation, and trust in a rapidly changing world.
IFAC CEO Lee White opened the Forum by reflecting on the value of global connectivity and peer engagement across the profession:
๐ฌ โWhat makes our global profession so powerful is that no matter where we are in the world, we are connected by a shared commitment to trust, quality, and the public interest. Todayโs conversations showed just how much energy, innovation, and passion exists across our global community โ and why Iโm so optimistic about the future of the profession.โ
A highlight of the Forum was a dialogue with Kevin Prendergast, Chair of International Forum of Independent Audit Regulators (IFIAR) and Chief Executive of Irish Auditing & Accounting Supervisory Authority (IAASA), exploring how regulators and the profession are navigating the rapid evolution of technology, AI, sustainability assurance, and changing business models.
๐ฌ โThe pace of change across audit and assurance is significant. Regulators, firms, and IFAC and its members, all have a shared responsibility to ensure innovation strengthens quality, professional judgment, and public trust.โ โ Kevin Prendergast, Chair, IFIAR & CEO, IAASA
The Forum also featured exciting updates on the Everything Needs Accounting campaign, and the launch of new work from our Young Leaders Collective, both focused on attracting, developing, and retaining the next generation of talent. Stay tuned, more to come on the PACT Framework!
๐ฌ โEverything Needs Accounting is about showing young people that our profession sits at the center of solving the worldโs biggest challenges โ from sustainability and technology to entrepreneurship and innovation.โ โ Dan Konigsburg, Global Head of Public Affairs, KPMG International
๐ฌ โThe enthusiasm and creativity we are seeing from IFAC members around the world demonstrates the incredible potential of a globally coordinated campaign with strong local activation. Together, we can reshape perceptions of the profession and inspire future talent.โ โ Bruce Vivian, Head of Education, Member Monitoring & Development, IFAC
A huge thank you to all our fantastic guest speakers Kevin Prendergast, Dan Konigsburg and Ainslie van Onselen, contributors, IFAC members, and young leaders who made todayโs Forum such a dynamic and inspiring exchange.
