Forget chasing the points or beefing up your CV. Lifelong learning is now a requirement for executives and thinking professionals marching confidently into the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Experts revealed to Kate Ferreira.
CIMA is another well-known educator and professional body. They recently “upgraded” their qualifications to reflect the real needs and changes that management accountants must deal with in modern finance, and the modern workplace.
According to Tim Simba, CIMA Africa Regional VP, the CIMA Professional Qualification is suitable and recommended for C-suite executives “as it complements their existing skillset and capability”, and in equipping them with “the technical, people, leadership and digital skills they need to successfully lead an organisation”.
“The qualification will help them stay at the top of their field, develop broader leadership skillsets to influence and inspire their teams, and enhance their decision-making skills to create sustainable value for their organisation,” says Tim.
Senior executives can earn the qualification through CIMA’s exclusive CFO Programme offered only to CFOs, CEOs, and senior management, and the in-take requirement is of a fittingly high standard: Qualifying candidates will need 10 years of strategic experience in finance and business functions, hold membership a recognised professional accounting body, a finance-related degree or an MBA/Master in Accounting.
“They need to take the Strategic Case Study exam and upon successful completion of the exam will earn CIMA membership and be awarded the Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) designation,” Tim added.
This is one of the ways that CIMA keeps their designation aspirational, and ensure their alumni remain on top of their game.
“CFOs should undertake continuous professional development,” says Tim. “We offer a suite of CPD opportunities to choose from.” All CIMA members and CGMA designation holders are required to undertake CPD and keep a record of their development activities.
Additionally, CIMA members enjoy ongoing access to their “library of learning tools and leading-edge resources” to facilitate “research and learning to challenge their thinking, advance their professional development, and enhance their employability in a highly competitive job market.”
