On November 23, 2023, the CGMA Annual Awards and CFO Forum, organized by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), was held in Pudong, Shanghai. Shijun Cheng, Executive Dean of the Shanghai Advanced Institute of Finance (SAIF), delivered a keynote address and signed a strategic cooperation memorandum on behalf of SAIF with the CGMA. Through this agreement, both organizations will collaborate across various areas including talent development, brand promotion, and exchange activities.
In his speech titled "Challenges in ESG Performance Assessment," Dean Cheng argued that while high environmental, social, and governance (ESG) ratings are often perceived as equating to sustainability, the reality is more nuanced. He suggested that an overemphasis on ESG metrics can obscure other vital long-term performance drivers. Instead, ESG should act as an enabler of sustainability rather than an end in itself.
Jointly founded by the AICPA and CIMA, the CGMA designation recognizes the expertise of Chartered Global Management Accountants worldwide. This year’s forum highlighted innovation and excellence in management accounting and finance, with the goal of advancing the profession and enabling high-quality, sustainable business practices.
Through this cooperative agreement, SAIF and the CGMA will continue to promote education and knowledge exchange between finance professionals.
