Breaking gender barriers and establishing trust and confidence could be vital in developing a career in accountancy

Over the years, the accounting industry has been predominantly dominated by males, and gender stereotyping against females with outdated views is common, especially when it comes to workplace inclusivity and effective communication and trust. 

However, Helen Brand, Chief Executive of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), is no stranger to gender discrimination within the accounting industry and has overcome significant challenges to lead the global body for professional accountants.

She was also pivotal in laying the foundation for the work ahead, from leading corporate marketing functions to establishing a formal marketing department within ACCA.

After over a decade as Chief Executive, she has developed the organisation into a corporate-driven one, focusing on establishing trust and confidence and changing the outlook and mindset towards female leaders.

Empowering women in accountancy

In empowering women in the accounting industry, individuals can significantly contribute to the sector through initiatives such as systematic and cultural structures at the workplace.

For instance, the availability of support networks and systems is essential for individuals to seek help and overcome challenges.

Additionally, given the constantly evolving accounting industry, women in leadership contribute to a balance in the workforce, improving businesses' commercial success and promoting value-added inclusion.

"Females are usually lost mid-way in their careers, especially given that they usually over-plan themselves in their careers," said Ms Helen Brand, Chief Executive of ACCA. "Businesses should structure themselves to be inclusive and for women to make their fullest contribution to the company."

Brand added that individuals only sometimes need a concrete career plan or aspiration, given that circumstances may change over time in the evolving accounting industry.

She also believes that individuals should not beat themselves up over not getting a leadership role and should broaden their experience by equipping themselves with skills and networking to prepare for the changing world.

Female business leaders on the rise

Female business leaders have been a growing trend over the past few years, with more females taking the helm of companies in various sectors.

For instance, tech entrepreneur Aleetza Senn founded Sparkline, a leading Singapore-based digital analytics consultancy that became one of Asia's first certified partners and Google Marketing Platform (GMP) resellers.

In addition, scientist Rishita Changede founded TeOra, a synthetic biology startup that aims to revolutionise food security by using synthetic biology, precision fermentation, and material science advancements to create customised agricultural and aquaculture sectors. 

This, in turn, has allowed the company to respond to emerging threats quickly, which is vital for maintaining food security in a fast-changing world.

Building on the momentum, ACCA's ultimate mission is to establish trust and confidence by flattening the organisation's hierarchy and increasing accessibility to higher-ups, allowing employees to be confident and close to key appointment holders.