The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) recently concluded its Pakistan Leadership Conversation (PLC) 2025 in Islamabad, bringing together key figures to discuss the critical roles of sustainability, artificial intelligence (AI), and shared services in shaping Pakistan’s economic trajectory. The conference, themed “From Surviving to Thriving: AI, Sustainability & Talent,” underscored the importance of finance professionals in driving innovation, boosting exports, and leading Pakistan’s transition to a green and digital economy.
The event featured a diverse range of speakers, including Assad Hameed Khan, Head of ACCA Pakistan, who emphasized ACCA’s dedication to preparing finance professionals for the future. Ayla Majid, President of ACCA, delivered a compelling keynote on “Sustainability and Climate Tech in the Age of AI,” highlighting the interconnectedness of these two areas. She stressed the opportunity for finance professionals to integrate ESG principles into the digital economy, ensuring Pakistan’s global competitiveness.
Two engaging panel discussions explored crucial aspects of Pakistan’s economic and business environment. The first, “Unlocking the SSO Potential: What’s Next?” delved into the potential of shared services and outsourcing (SSO) to fuel economic growth and digital transformation. Experts from various organizations, including P@sha, PwC, Telenor Shared Services, Sybrid Pvt. Limited, and Hyphen Consultancy, discussed how AI can enhance Pakistan’s IT and ITeS exports. The session was moderated by Sadia Khan, Head Shared Services, Bestway Consultancy.
The second panel, “From Brown to Green: Innovating in Transition,” addressed Pakistan’s journey towards a low-carbon economy, the adoption of ESG-led business models, and the role of AI in driving sustainability. Panelists representing Mobilink Microfinance Bank, Karandaaz Pakistan, SECP, FCDO, and ICMA Pakistan explored the impact of AI on ESG compliance, carbon markets, and sustainability reporting. Jahanara Sajjad, Executive Director, Bibojee Group, skillfully moderated this insightful discussion.
Assad Hameed Khan reiterated the significance of PLC 2025 as a platform for shaping the future of finance and business in Pakistan. He emphasized the need for professionals to acquire the skills necessary to navigate the transformative changes brought about by AI in shared services and the increasing importance of sustainability.
Muhammad Arif Goheer, Executive Director, GCISC, delivered a keynote on “Carbon Market Policy: Pakistan’s Commitment to Net-Zero,” emphasizing the need for cross-sector collaboration and the crucial roles of AI and carbon market policies in achieving a sustainable future. Akif Saeed, Chairman, SECP, shared his insights via video message, highlighting the importance of strong governance and regulatory frameworks for ESG and AI adoption, and the role of finance professionals in ensuring transparency and sustainability.
Asad Malik Mahmood, Head of Business Development North, ACCA, concluded the event, expressing gratitude to partners and ACCA leadership. He emphasized that AI, sustainability, and talent are not mere trends but essential elements shaping the future of finance.
The PLC 2025, with the support of its partners, facilitated valuable discussions on Pakistan’s economic transformation. ACCA remains committed to empowering finance professionals with the skills they need to thrive in a technologically advanced and sustainable economic landscape. The conference served as a powerful reminder of the collective effort required to build a prosperous and sustainable future for Pakistan.
