#United Kingdom #CIMA #Liverpool #John Graham #Finance Professional

John Graham Takes the Helm as CIMA President

The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) has officially announced the election of John Graham, FCMA, CGMA, as its 92nd President. Known for his extensive experience within the UK's National Health Service (NHS), Graham's leadership journey is set to steer the global discourse on finance and accounting forward.

A Path of Leadership in the NHS

John Graham's career within the NHS spans over 16 years, during which he has served in various high-ranking financial roles, including Chief Finance Officer and Director of Finance across different NHS organizations. Currently, he holds the position of Chief Finance Officer at Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust and is Deputy Chief Executive at Stockport NHS Foundation Trust. Unique to his presidency, Graham is the first to serve both as President of CIMA and within a full-time executive capacity at the NHS during his tenure.

Vision for the Future

Upon his election, Graham emphasized the urgency of forward-thinking within the finance and accounting sector, stating, "The world is more unpredictable and challenging than ever before. Yet, the finance and accounting profession continues to show remarkable resilience." Recognizing the impact of technology and digital transformation, he expressed his belief that these changes open new avenues for finance professionals who demonstrate not only technical skills but also strategic insights and critical thinking abilities.

Graham will work alongside Lexy Kessler, the Association Chair, and Mark Koziel, CEO, focusing on the Finance and Accounting 2040 project. This initiative aims to prepare the profession for future demands and to anticipate the skills required in the evolving landscape.

Engaging with Global Communities

In the forthcoming year, Graham plans to engage extensively with CIMA members and candidates across continents, from Africa to North America. He aims to highlight the burgeoning career opportunities linked to new technologies like artificial intelligence and emphasizes a growing need for sustainable business practices within financial frameworks.

A Humble Commitment

Graham reflected on his new role with humility and a sense of purpose, stating, "It is an honour to serve as 92nd President of CIMA and 10th Co-Chair of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, leading a global organization that fosters trust, enables opportunity, and advances prosperity for people, businesses, and communities." His commitment goes beyond mere leadership; he expresses a strong desire to listen and connect with the community that he serves.

A Proven Advocate for Management Accounting

Having been an Associate Chartered Management Accountant (ACMA) since 1999, Graham became a Fellow Chartered Management Accountant (FCMA) in 2011. His journey with CIMA has seen him advocate fiercely for the management accounting profession, boosting engagement and community interaction. His previous roles include Chair of the CIMA Lifelong Learning and Professional Standards Committees and membership on various committees aimed at enhancing the overall member experience.

Graham also maintains a role in academia, serving as Chair of a School Multi-Academy Trust, and is a Non-Executive Director for New Directions, which provides adult social care services. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling and is an avid sports fan. Living in Liverpool with his wife and three children, Graham's life is a blend of family, service, and professional commitment.

Conclusion

As John Graham embarks on this pivotal role within CIMA, the landscape of finance and accounting is on the brink of transformative change. With a leader who not only understands the pulse of the industry but also prioritizes innovation and sustainability, the future seems promising for both new and seasoned professionals in the field.