The Think Tank’s key mandate is to convene all relevant stakeholders interested to discuss strategies to accelerate Emiratisation and financial capability of Emiratis in the UAE, producing practical studies to diffuse best practices and support the launch and expansion of the “Emirati Finance Academy Powered by CIMA” — a UAE-specific programme co-developed by PLM Financial Advisory and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants
AICPA & CIMA and UAE-based PLM Financial Advisory have announced the formation of the Finance Emiratisation Think Tank, a practitioner-led advisory board established to direct and govern the rollout of the Emirati Finance Academy Powered by CIMA across the UAE. The Think Tank held its inaugural board meeting this month. Its mandate is clearly defined: the Think Tank and its members’ sole focus is to support the launch of the Emirati Finance Academy Powered by CIMA, a market-specific programme for Emiratis, localised by PLM Financial Advisory and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA).
“The Think Tank demonstrates our commitment to advancing Emirati talent in line with national priorities. By uniting public and private organisations, we are creating practical pathways in financial education and upskilling that empower Emiratis to grow and contribute to the UAE’s long-term vision. Acting in my private capacity, I am proud to support an initiative that turns policy into meaningful, scalable opportunity," said Hamad Abdullah Almas, Chair of the Think Tank and former Executive Director, Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development.
The Academy addresses a structural issue that employers and government bodies have documented for several years. Despite sustained growth in Emirati participation across finance functions, data from the profession shows persistent under-representation at senior levels — financial controllers, finance business partners and CFO roles. The Think Tank was formed to create a measurable, evidence-based pathway to close that gap, from early secondary school through to executive leadership.
“Emiratisation is at a point where quality, influence and leadership pathways matter as much as numbers. The Think Tank creates a trusted space where policymakers, employers and the profession can address real finance capability gaps, supporting practical solutions that align national ambition with organisational performance and long-term economic impact," said Nassima Kaddache, Regional Head of CIMA Middle East.
The programme spans six levels: a financial literacy curriculum for students aged 13 to 15; a CertBA preparation pathway for those approaching graduation; an entry track for university students and recent graduates; a 24-month work-integrated learning programme for early-career Emiratis in employment; a structured upskilling track for existing finance staff; and a Strategic CFO Programme for senior finance leaders. In its first year, the Academy is targeting a minimum of 1,000 Emirati professionals across those levels, alongside 5,000 school-age learners.
“Launching the CIMA-powered Finance Emiratisation Think Tank is a practical step to accelerate job-ready Emirati talent aligned to the UAE’s national agenda. Working with government, universities and employers, we will scale the CIMA Emirati Finance Academy through measurable, work-integrated pathways — delivering internationally benchmarked capability, real workplace experience and clear progression for Emirati professionals," said Paolo Monaco, FCMA, Programme Director of the CIMA Emirati Finance Academy. and Founder of PLM Financial Advisory.
Source: Gulf News