International career mobility is the key to attracting the next generation of professional accountants, says Madeleine Knopf (pictured).
Writing for the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) she explained international mobility is no longer just a benefit of professional accountancy – it’s a strategic recruitment tool.
She said: “For professional accountancy organisations navigating talent shortages and evolving workforce expectations, promoting the profession as a global passport to opportunity may be one of the most effective ways to attract, inspire, and retain the next generation of accounting leaders.”
Knopf says a talent shortage is real, with accounting and auditing job openings projected to exceed 130,000 a year by 2033. She points out that in the UK some 45% of accounting firms already report they are ‘severely’ or ‘significantly’ affect by the skills shortage.
Knopf reveals that recent data shows encouraging signs – such as a 12% increase in undergraduate accounting enrollment from spring 2024, largely driven by growth at two-year institutions – the profession continues to face long-term talent risks.
To reverse this trend Knopf believes the PAOs must reframe how they communicate the value proposition of becoming a professional accountant – and one of the most compelling elements is its international career potential.
The ability to work across borders, gain exposure to international markets, and build a portable skill set is often seen as just as important as salary or title.
This is where professional accountancy qualifications offer significant value, explained Knopf.
She said; “In many jurisdictions, credentials such as the CPA, CA, or ACCA provide opportunities to work internationally through Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) with leading global bodies. For example, through MRAs with jurisdictions such as Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, and others, qualified accountants can pursue international career opportunities without restarting the credentialing process.
“In most cases, individuals are required to complete only a short exam covering local tax and law, rather than retaking core qualification exams. These agreements make many professional accountancy designations among the most globally mobile credentials in business.”
Knopf stressed that highlighting these pathways helps position the profession as globally relevant, adaptable, and aligned with modern career aspirations.
Read the full article at: https://www.ifac.org/knowledge-gateway/discussion/why-international-career-mobility-key-attracting-next-generation-professional-accountants
Madeleine Knopf is a rising senior at Binghamton University majoring in Economics. She is the summer 2025 communications intern at the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC).
