John Graham Elected as 92nd President of CIMA: A Vision for the Future of Accounting

John Graham Takes the Helm as CIMA's 92nd President



On June 18, 2025, the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) made a significant announcement with the election of John Graham, FCMA, CGMA, as its 92nd President. Graham, who has an extensive background in finance with the UK's National Health Service (NHS), also assumes the role of Co-Chair of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA and CIMA combined).

In his acceptance speech, Graham emphasized the importance of looking forward to shape the future of the accounting profession. “We must look ahead to create the future of the profession,” he stated, highlighting the unpredictable and challenging nature of today’s world. He recognizes the remarkable resilience within the financial and accounting sectors, noting an abundance of opportunities fueled by digital transformations and the increasing demand for finance professionals capable of providing not just technical expertise but also critical thinking, agility, and strategic insights.

As he begins his year-long presidency, Graham plans to work closely with Lexy Kessler, CPA, CGMA, the President of the Association, and Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, the Association’s CEO, to forge a path toward the future under the initiative titled "Finance and Accounting 2040" and the project "Rise to the Future Together". Over the next twelve months, he intends to engage with members and prospective candidates across continents including Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America, spotlighting emerging career opportunities in finance driven by new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and sectors promoting sustainability.

John Graham’s career spans over various critical roles within the NHS, including Chief Finance Officer and Finance Director for the Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust and the Stockport NHS Foundation Trust. This unprecedented background makes him the first CIMA President to simultaneously hold a full-time executive position within the NHS during his term.

Reflecting on his election, Graham expressed humility and determination, stating: “It is an honor to serve as the 92nd President of CIMA and the 10th Co-Chair of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. Leading a global organization that builds trust, opens pathways, and enhances the prosperity of individuals, businesses, communities, and economies worldwide is a tremendous privilege.”

He further mentioned his commitment to listen, connect, and shape the future collaboratively.

Becoming an Associate Chartered Management Accountant (ACMA) in 1999 and a Fellow Chartered Management Accountant (FCMA) in 2011, Graham has not only served as an ambassador and advocate for the Institute but has also held various leadership roles within CIMA and the Association. His contributions include being a member of multiple committees focused on continuous professional development, professional standards, and membership engagements.

In addition to his professional commitments, Graham chairs a School Multi-Academy Trust and serves as a non-executive director for New Directions, a provider of social services for adults. Based in Liverpool, he enjoys family life with his wife and three children, along with his passion for traveling and sports.

Graham’s leadership heralds a transformative period for CIMA, emphasizing the need for adaptation and innovation in a rapidly evolving landscape. He aims to equip the next generation of accountants with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their careers and effectively respond to the future challenges of the industry. As this new chapter begins for CIMA under John Graham's presidency, the focus will undoubtedly remain on harnessing technology and advocating for sustainability to pave the way for the profession’s evolution.

Topics Financial Services & Investing)

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