22/09/2026
Day 1 of the CGMA Leadership Academy Asia 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia challenged us to think differently about leadership, influence and the future of our profession.
Mark Koziel CPA, CGMA, CEO of the Association, opened the Academy by exploring the forces reshaping the profession and the evolving expectations of finance leaders. His message was a timely reminder that leaders today must navigate uncertainty, technological change, workforce transformation and increasing complexity while continuing to build trust, create value and inspire confidence across their organisations.
Irene Teng then challenged delegates to approach the week with curiosity, openness and a genuine willingness to learn from one another.
Building on those themes, Andrew Harding FCMA CGMA set the context for what leadership and influence look like at the highest levels of an organisation before moderating a candid discussion with Dixon Wong, Yasmin Mohd Ramzi FCMA, CGMA and Chari TVT. The conversation went beyond titles and career journeys to explore the realities of navigating stakeholders, building credibility, influencing decisions and leading through complexity.
One theme resonated throughout the day:
Technical expertise may earn you credibility, but leadership is built on judgment, influence, trust and the ability to bring people with you.
We closed the day with an engaging workshop led by Azran Osman-Rani, reminding us that despite all the advances in technology and AI, leadership remains fundamentally human.
What made the day especially valuable was the openness of the discussions, the candour of the speakers and the willingness of delegates to share perspectives and learn from one another. The energy in the room reflected a profession that is evolving rapidly, and leaders who are committed to evolving with it.
One day down. Three more to go.
