The upcoming HKICPA Career Forum 2017’s theme “Leading with Strategy” brings into sharp focus the diversity of the roles of certified public accountants (CPAs) as well as the additional skill sets needed in a constantly changing business environment.

“Companies expect CPAs to get more involved in the development of business strategies, policy analysis and management,” says Patrick Law, vice-president of HKICPA and convener of 2017 Career Forum advisory panel. “To be successful, CPAs need to equip themselves with outstanding communication and leadership skills. The forum will shed light on these new requirements.”

In response to the impact on the profession of the increased application of new technologies, the forum’s workshops will include such topics as digitisation and forensic accounting. “Experts will share their insights into these specialisations, basic entry requirements, and the career prospects,” Law says.

At another workshop, “Professional Accountants in the Business World”, senior executives will share their experience and insights into how some CPAs have made the successful transition from working at audit firms to becoming CFOs and financial controllers for different enterprises. They will also discuss what the challenges are and what additional skill sets are required.

Law says the forum’s main objective is to inform university students with an interest in the profession about the latest developments to help them formulate their career plans. “In addition to the workshops, we organise the ‘Luncheon with CPAs’ where a select group of CPAs, representing a wide cross-section of the profession – from those working in audit firms to CPAs working in the commercial sector – will interact with students and answer questions. The relaxed environment lets students speak up and find out about the job nature, daily routines and prospects of these two distinct segments.”

Around 20 companies and organisations will exhibit. Representatives on duty will distribute information about their companies and answer questions from visitors. Six firms will also conduct on-site interviews with students applying for internship placements.

To maximise the benefit of the forum, students should select and preregister for workshops. They can also do research to identify what they want to find out. “For instance, they can go to visit the on-site CV Doctors to get help for their CVs,” he notes. “If they want to learn about different sectors, they should ask as many questions as possible at the luncheon.”