ACCA’s Global Talent Trends 2024 survey underscores the critical importance of fostering a robust diversity and inclusion culture, harnessing AI’s potential in the profession, and addressing mental health concerns in the workplace. The survey, the largest of its kind in the accountancy profession, sheds light on key workplace issues and offers insights into professionals’ aspirations and concerns.
With nearly 10,000 professional accountants from 157 countries participating, the survey reveals that 73 percent of respondents consider a strong diversity and inclusion culture crucial when choosing an employer. This emphasizes the need for organizations to expand their diversity initiatives to encompass dimensions such as age and neurodiversity.
While acknowledging AI’s potential to enhance the role of finance professionals, with 78 percent of respondents seeing its value in adding more value, there’s apprehension about the rapid pace of technological change. Notably, 85 percent of respondents express a demand for more technology training to ensure they can leverage advancements effectively.
The survey also highlights the pressing issue of mental well-being in the workplace, with 57 percent of respondents reporting that work pressures adversely affect their mental health.
This underscores the need for employers to bolster support systems and develop more effective well-being programs to mitigate work-related stress and anxiety. Assad Hameed Khan, Head of ACCA Pakistan, emphasized the challenges employers face in attracting and retaining talent amidst the talent crunch.
He suggests that businesses can differentiate themselves by prioritizing diversity, leveraging technology for human advantage, and placing employee well-being at the forefront of their agenda. Such measures not only enhance global competitiveness but also ensure a resilient and future-ready finance profession.
