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Public sector discovers new ways to adopt technology and embrace digital transformation
SINGAPORE, March 9, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Investment in skills and the digital infrastructure cannot be delayed if the public sector is to stay ahead of the curve and avoid the risk of being left behind in the digital revolution.
This was one of the key conclusions from ACCA's (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) recent International Public Sector Conference held in Singapore, organised in collaboration with ACCA's strategic partner, the Singapore Accountancy Commission. Conference speakers offered examples of best practice from Estonia, Singapore and Malaysia on how to manage digital transformation.
Key speakers covered a wide range of issues including talent, transparency, accountability and better financial management -- all linking to the event's timely theme of The Digital Public Sector.
Alex Metcalfe, ACCA's head of public sector policy chaired the event, and says: 'Digital transformation in the public sector is not possible without the right talent in place to make it happen. Our research Drivers of change in the public sector has shown that the global talent pool ranks the second highest concern -- with the spread of diversity in the workplace ranked in the top 10. Effective and efficient talent management in the public sector will be a key success factor for leading the digital revolution.'
Dr Koh Chee Wee, director (Leadership and Workforce Capabilities, Singapore Public Service Division) said that: 'For public sector to progress, we cannot be insular and we need to be in touch with the latest digital advancement, changes in the different industries and understand the pulse of the economy. Public sector also have to be wiling to adapt new work processes and to change the way it structures itself in order to attract GenNex.'
In the face of such challenges and change, the conference concluded by asserting that skilled and talented public sector finance professionals can ensure this important sector remains relevant.
Leong Soo Yee, Market Director, Asia Pacific, ACCA adds: "The global economic crisis demonstrated the clear need for better public financial management and the adoption of international accounting standards. If done well, digital innovation creates many opportunities for the more effective management of public money. New technologies such as Big Data and AI can help us allocate scarce resource more efficiently.'
Some 400 attendees came to the event, to hear from speakers including Vivek Kumar, assistant director-general, National Trades Union Congress; Benjamin Chiang, Singapore Government Public Sector Leader, Ernst & Young Advisory; Dr. Koh Chee Wee, director (Leadership and Workforce Capabilities), Singapore Public Service Division; Paul Loke, director of technology and Chief Information Officer, Accountant-General's Department (AGD); Yvonne Chan, chief financial officer/director (corporate development), Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore.
Click here to download photos from the event.
About ACCA
ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is the global body for professional accountants, offering business-relevant, first-choice qualifications to people of application, ability and ambition around the world who seek a rewarding career in accountancy, finance and management.
ACCA supports its 200,000 members and 486,000 students in 180 countries, helping them to develop successful careers in accounting and business, with the skills required by employers. ACCA works through a network of 101 offices and centres and more than 7,200 Approved Employers worldwide, who provide high standards of employee learning and development. Through its public interest remit, ACCA promotes appropriate regulation of accounting and conducts relevant research to ensure accountancy continues to grow in reputation and influence.
ACCA is currently introducing major innovations to its flagship qualification to ensure its members and future members continue to be the most valued, up to date and sought-after accountancy professionals globally.
Founded in 1904, ACCA has consistently held unique core values: opportunity, diversity, innovation, integrity and accountability. More information is here: www.accaglobal.com
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