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Presidential Notes |
Here is some information about the IMA and the
Fox River Valley Chapter that shows how the IMA can
help the accountant’s career:
FOX RIVER VALLEY CHAPTER
The Fox River Valley Chapter of the Institute of
Management Accountants encompasses an area west of
Oak Brook, south of Elgin, east of DeKalb, and north
of Ottawa in northern Illinois. This is an active
chapter of about 200 that provides education, ethics
training, certification sponsorship, and networking
opportunities for its members. It also has specific
programs for accounting students in nearby colleges
and universities.
CERTIFICATION
The IMA provides a way to demonstrate to employers
and the public that you are a professional
accountant. Becoming a Certified Management
Accountant (CMA) confirms a broad based knowledge of
many areas needed in today’s business world. The
continuing education requirements of this
certificate, also shows that the accountant will
maintain a high level of business knowledge. With
the additional ethics requirements, the management
accountant establishes the highest level of
professionalism that is not met in many other
careers and fields.
EDUCATION
In a complex and constantly evolving business world,
the accounting profession is constantly changing. No
longer is the accountant the man in the back room
with a shade, pencil, and calculator. Not only are
more women becoming accountants but management
accountants are becoming an integral part of the
strategic planning process of an organization. The
skill sets needed in the past have to be
supplemented with new skill sets as the business
world evolves. Maintaining a commitment to
continuing education is not just an option but is
now a requirement.
NETWORKING
One method of maintaining skill sets is the ability
to network. This is a chance for the management
accountant to exchange ideas, experiences, and
solutions to problems. Not only will the accountant
be receiving help but may also be giving it.
Networking also helps in finding that perfect
individual to fit into the management accountant’s
department and can help in finding that perfect
company that matches your skills and experiences.
Networking is essential in today’s career
development.
LEADERSHIP
There is no better way to become a confident person
and a better leader than to be involved in the local
chapter. Volunteering to help organize chapter
events not only adds additional skill sets to the
accountant’s experiences but also helps build
character and leadership skills.
Bob Brown, CMA, Chapter President 2008-2009 |
