SOEL-ACCA-IESOEL Important Networking Events
On Thursday, September 19, 2024, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Southern Europe , the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Greece (SOEL), and the Institute of Education of Certified Public Accountants of Greece (IESOEL) organized two outstanding events in Athens. These events provided unique opportunities for knowledge exchange, idea sharing, and exploring new collaborations in the fields of accounting and finance. The events took place at the Divani Caravel Hotel in Athens.
1st Event: Roundtable Discussion on “Talent Trends in Finance for SSC and BPO Centre Development”
In the morning, a roundtable discussion was co-organized by ACCA, SOEL, and Enterprise Greece. During the event, Ms. Elina Apostolopoulou, DipIFR, FCCA, CIA, and Greece’s Representative at ACCA’s International Assembly, presented the latest trends in talent management in accounting and finance. She emphasized the development of Shared Services Centers (SSC) and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Centers.
Mr. Stelios Dotsias, FCCA, CIA, and Educational Consultant at IESOEL, representing SOEL, introduced the SOEL-ACCA Joint Examination Scheme (JES) for obtaining the professional qualification from both bodies. Additionally, he discussed the collaboration between SOEL and ACCA for offering the Certificate in International Financial Reporting Standards (CertIFR).
Enterprise Greece was represented by Mr. Nikos Stamos, Director of Investment Promotion, who presented the services provided by Enterprise Greece for investment promotion and facilitation. He also highlighted the reasons that make Greece an attractive investment destination.
The event brought together professionals from the industry, offering valuable insights into new opportunities and challenges businesses face on a global scale.
2nd event: Academics & Employers Networking Event
In the afternoon, a networking event between academics and representatives of prestigious companies followed. The event aimed to facilitate an open discussion that would initiate further collaborations and the exchange of views on labor market needs and prospects.
Mr. Angelos Dionysopoulos, Audit Partner at SOL CROWE and member of the Supervisory Board of SOEL, highlighted the successful 15-year collaboration between SOEL and ACCA, as well as the joint Certification Programs provided by the two organizations in Greece.
Ms. Caitriona Allis, Head of Europe ACCA, emphasized in her speech the significance of ACCA’s collaboration with SOEL, which plays a crucial role in developing and implementing educational programs that strengthen the auditing and accounting profession.
Additionally, three key questions guided the discussions among participants:
- What should the accounting and finance sector offer to young professionals to attract their interest? Discussions focused on how universities, employers, and professional organizations can address the needs, aspirations, and concerns of young professionals.
- How can we leverage new technologies and integrate them with modern learning methods? Participants exchanged ideas on how technological advancements can enhance the knowledge and skills of future professionals, equipping them for success.
- What are the biggest challenges and opportunities for the industry? Sustainability and innovation in accounting and finance were central topics, emphasizing the need for continuous evolution and adaptation to market demands.
These events provided valuable opportunities for knowledge exchange, networking, and discussions on challenges and opportunities in the accounting and finance sectors, fostering collaboration among professionals, academics, and employers.
