In its Annual Review, 2009-10, the ACCA repeats its strategic goal to be the leading global accountancy body by size, influence and reputation. The Review also makes clear that the organisation wants to remain “fit for (this) purpose”, whilst continuing to support its members.
These and other key points of the Review are set out in the latest blog by the group’s Chief Executive, Helen Brand. Helen also points out, that in its most recent survey, there was 99% awareness of ACCA among employers and that 48% of employers internationally saw ACCA as the leading global professional accountancy body. To show just why it is, that the ACCA is so highly respected, here are some further facts and figures about the group, the qualifications and Performance Management Accounting, paper F5.
The ACCA has existed for over 100 years, with the objective of providing business relevant, qualifications and professional development. As these are founded on the international accounting standards they are accepted in 170 countries. Reputation is central to the ACCA and as such it strives to promote the highest professional and ethical governance standards. Its has a 140,000 strong membership, two thirds of which work in the corporate arena, plus a student body of 404,000 and 83 offices dotted around the world.
In the tough economic climate, professionals who can understand and manage the finances are in demand. With this in mind, the ACCA qualifications deliver a comprehensive body of all the requisite knowldege, skills and values needed to achieve in this field. There are three principal parts to the qualification; a programme of fourteen exams, a period of practical experience lasting three years and a module on professional ethics. The examinations are comprised of nine compulsory, fundamental papers together with an additional five professional papers.
Successful business results turn on the implementation of well founded and effective business practices like performance measurement. Modern concepts like this and backflush accounting, a costing short cut for companies which run a “just in time” business model, are covered by paper F5, Performance Management Accounting. The course, however, is by intention and method of examination, not simply a download of theoretical knowledge but provides the skills needed to contribute to the world of corporate work. Whilst highly demanding, the ACCA provides all the resources to help ensure exam success.As an example, there is a subject specific microsite, dedicated to paper F5. This houses everything a candidate could ever need from syllabus overviews and self-test activities to advice on exam preparation. The ACCA really does lead the way, in every way.