Accountants are far more than number crunchers—they are strategic advisors at the heart of Europe’s economic engine. As the EU intensifies its competitiveness agenda, their role becomes increasingly vital in delivering the twin transitions.

Accountants are also central to the Union of Skills initiative, which aims to upskill and reskill Europe’s workforce for the future. From navigating complex regulations to unlocking innovation and ensuring financial integrity through robust anti-money laundering (AML) practices, accountants are indispensable to Europe’s regulatory success.

This impact is especially pronounced for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), where accountants drive sustainability, tax compliance, investment readiness, and entrepreneurial growth. Their expertise fuels business resilience and innovation, positioning them as key enablers of Europe’s economic transformation. 

 

ACCA’s Global Talent Trends 2025 survey highlights a profession in evolution—where entrepreneurial ambition, sustainability expertise, and lifelong learning are reshaping the future of work. Yet, despite being officially listed among the EU’s 42 shortage occupations, demand for accountancy professionals continues to grow.

 

Attracting and retaining talent is a pressing challenge. To meet this challenge, Europe must invest in promoting accountancy as a dynamic, purpose-driven career. Supporting lifelong learning, enabling cross-border mobility, and empowering the next generation of accountants are strategic imperatives for Europe’s future competitiveness and cohesion. 

 

This event, organised by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), in partnership with the European Accounting Association (EAA), and in support of the priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, is your opportunity to be part of a high-level dialogue shaping the future of Europe’s talent landscape.  

 

 

 

 

 

Moderated by: Agnieszka Jarosz, ACCA, Head of Northern & Eastern Europe 

Panellists: