I must admit that the last quarter has been one of the most notable ones I have encountered in my two decades in business. Humbling… Challenging… But, so enlightening! With global events unfolding and intensifying, we have had to make tough decisions, fast. Our teams became remote workforces overnight and surprised the world with their commitment and elevated performance, all while juggling work with their children’s homework and, at times, in their sweatpants.

Despite the devastating effects encountered across the globe, one cannot help but notice the tremendous positive changes that are unfolding at the same time. Companies are revisiting their business models, getting leaner and stronger in preparation for the next round of pent-up demand. As daunting as crisis can be, it can also be a stepping-stone to better outcomes.

At IMA^® (Institute of Management Accountants), we have seen the power of community come to life through extended resources to finance and accounting professionals around the world. Through free access to many of our IMA assets to ongoing promotions and online initiatives like never before, we made it a point to extend our support to professionals the world over so they may continue to reskill and upskill. We also organized several webinars and published white papers and research aimed at shedding light on the progressing events and how the profession can not only cope but excel and create value to their organizations at this pivotal moment in history.

On May 6, we celebrated International Management Accounting Day and although this annual milestone has seen us through better times, it was heartwarming to see the global and regional IMA communities collaborate to commemorate this significant day which celebrates a noble profession that is proving to be a vital element to sound business strategy.

We want to thank our members, our chapter leaders, and most importantly, our employees for their continued support during this pandemic which tragically impacted lives and livelihoods. We are fortunate to be part of a network that has solidified its commitment to its people first and foremost – a value that was put to the test through recent events and exceeded expectations of all.

As noted by IMA President and CEO Jeff Thomson, “We need to believe that there is light at the end of the tunnel,” and that we can indeed “come out stronger if we commit to being learning individuals and organizations.”

I’m so proud of our regional team for making the best of every encountered situation.

Please click here to view my recent video message of support amid COVID-19.