In the latest episode of Difference Makers Discuss Live, we explore the transformative role of Chartered Accountants in driving global sustainability. The conversation, led by Ainslie van Onselen, Chair of Chartered Accountants Worldwide and CEO of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand sees Jessica Fries, Executive Chair of A4S, shed light on the pivotal shift from voluntary to mandatory sustainability practices, influenced by global standards such as those from the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB). Jessica’s extensive experience and expertise in sustainability and integrated reporting offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape and the critical role Chartered Accountants play in shaping a sustainable future.
The episode begins with a discussion on the significant progress in sustainability reporting. Jessica emphasises the shift from voluntary practices to mandatory sustainability reporting, underscoring the importance of global standards to avoid fragmentation. She highlights the vital role Chartered Accountants play in influencing frameworks, providing strategic advice, and ensuring comprehensive analysis that includes social and environmental factors. This underscores the responsibilities of Chartered Accountants in driving meaningful progress and effective decision-making within organisations.
As the conversation evolves, the focus shifts to the importance of impact and purpose in attracting new talent to the accountancy profession. Jessica discusses how authenticity in sustainability efforts is crucial for young Chartered Accountants looking to find niche opportunities. She stresses the value of networking and continuous learning and highlights the inspiring work of CFOs and Chartered Accountants in the sustainability space. Jessica and Ainslie also touch on the significance of initiatives like the Finance for the Future Awards in recognising and encouraging sustainable practices within the profession. Indeed, Jessica discusses how finance professionals can leverage their skills and influence to drive meaningful change, emphasising the importance of embedding incentives, APIs, and capital investments into their strategies. Drawing parallels with Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s philosophy of bringing others along to drive change, Jessica also reflects on Prince Charles’ visionary creation of A4S and its progress over the past 20 years. She offers practical guidance for small and medium practices on enhancing their capabilities, recommending resources from CAW and A4S, and emphasising the value of learning from case studies and connecting with peers.
Throughout the episode, Jessica provides practical advice and insights for Chartered Accountants at all stages of their careers. She encourages young professionals to seek opportunities in unexpected places and to build their networks and knowledge through continuous learning. The importance of having a real impact and purpose in your work is a recurring theme, with Jessica urging organisations to ensure that their sustainability efforts are genuine and integrated into everyday practices.
For small and medium practices, Jessica recommends leveraging existing tools and resources, such as those available through CAW and A4S. She emphasises the importance of learning from case studies and connecting with peers to gain practical insights and ideas. The discussion also highlights the role of Chartered Accountants in advocating for global standards and consistency, ensuring that sustainability reporting is meaningful and drives real progress.
The episode concludes with a reflection on the broader impact of sustainability on the accounting profession. Jessica highlights the growing recognition of the importance of sustainability in financial decision-making and the increasing number of roles explicitly focused on sustainability accounting. She underscores the need for accountants to be proactive in understanding and addressing social and environmental trends, and to use their influence to drive positive change within their organisations and beyond.
In summary, this episode of Difference Makers Discuss Live provides a richly informative and inspiring conversation on the emerging role of accountants in global sustainability. Jessica Fries offers valuable insights and practical advice for Chartered Accountants at all stages of their careers, emphasising the importance of authenticity, continuous learning, and strategic guidance in driving meaningful progress. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting your career, this episode offers a wealth of information and inspiration to help you navigate the evolving landscape of sustainability within the accountancy profession.
