The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) warmly welcomes the appointment of Jennifer Lopez as the new Chief Executive of the Confederation of Asian and Pacific Accountants (CAPA).

Jennifer brings to CAPA a proven record of transformative and innovative leadership, most recently demonstrated during her tenure as Executive Director at the British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce. Her vision, strategic acumen, and commitment to collaboration come at a pivotal time for the profession. As IFAC strengthens its approach to regional engagement, Jennifer’s appointment marks an important step to further elevate collaboration between IFAC and CAPA, supporting the advancement of the accountancy profession both regionally and globally.

Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer, said: "We are delighted to welcome Jennifer Lopez into her new role at CAPA. Jennifer’s track record of innovation and strategic leadership will bring fresh energy and ideas to CAPA’s important mission. Her appointment comes at a time when our profession is navigating profound transformations—driven by sustainability, powered by technology, and shaped by the urgent need to attract, develop, and retain talent.

I am excited for the opportunities ahead as we work closely with Jennifer and the CAPA team to strengthen our collective impact for the benefit of the global profession and the public interest."

At the same time, IFAC expresses its deep gratitude to Brian Blood, who is stepping down after a remarkable tenure as CAPA’s Chief Executive Officer. "Brian has been a tireless champion for the profession in the Asia-Pacific region.

"Under his leadership, CAPA has become a true force—supporting PAOs through the Maturity Model, championing SMPs and Accounting Technicians, and producing vital resources on public sector reporting, ethics, and quality assurance. Brian has also been a generous advisor and friend to IFAC—always thoughtful and committed,” said Mr White. 

With Jennifer’s leadership and Brian’s enduring legacy, CAPA is well positioned to continue driving impact for its members and for the global profession.

About IFAC

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

The PAO Strategy Planning Toolkit directly supports our Strategy and Member Value Proposition helps PAOs succeed in delivering on their mandates, strengthening governance, and building relevance. Whether your PAO is navigating
regulatory reform, digital transformation, or evolving public expectations, a clear and actionable strategy is essential.

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) is excited to announce that the World Congress of Accountants (WCOA) will be held November 17–20, 2026, in Seoul, South Korea. The Korean Institute of Certified Public Accountants (KICPA) and IFAC will serve as joint hosts, working closely to welcome professional accountants from around the world for the event.

Recognized as a preeminent event for the profession, WCOA brings together Professional Accountancy Organization (PAO) representatives from over 100 countries to strengthen the global accountancy community by sharing experiences, learning and deepening relationships across the profession.  

WCOA 2026 marks the launch of a new biennial format, wherein the event will be held every two years. All accountants, as well as interested members of the public, are invited to participate in WCOA virtually to hear about how the profession is positioning itself for the future. In-person participation will be invite-only and will bring together some of the most experienced and visionary leaders in our field. WCOA will continue to be scheduled alongside IFAC Council meetings.

In-person participants of WCOA 2026 will have the opportunity to join in plenary sessions, panel discussions, and hear from distinguished subject-matter experts. The event will include opportunities to attend networking events, in order to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among professionals from various sectors. In-person WCOA 2026 attendees will be comprised of IFAC PAO leadership (staff and volunteers), professional services firms, standard-setters, regulators and other government officials, representatives of multilateral and development agencies, and the business and investor communities. Select sessions will be livestreamed so that virtual attendees are included in these important conversations.    

 Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer, said:

"Seoul is a vibrant, innovative, and truly international city—an ideal host for WCOA 2026. At this Congress, the importance of a resilient, adaptable, and global accountancy profession will be front and center. We are honored to partner with our esteemed member, KICPA, to bring the world together here—leaders, colleagues, and friends united by our shared commitment to the public interest. The value of a strong, global profession has never been more pronounced, nor more needed.

We look forward to creating a Congress where every moment matters—whether on stage in a plenary or in a simple conversation between two new acquaintances—each connection will help shape the future of our profession. And of course, we will be engaging deeply on the drivers reshaping that future: sustainability, AI, and how we attract and empower the next generation of talent."

Mr. Woon-Youl Choi, KICPA President said:

“We are delighted that Seoul has been selected as the host city for WCOA 2026. I am confident that WCOA 2026 will serve as a meaningful platform not only to address priorities in accounting, auditing, and sustainability, but also to explore the challenges and opportunities of AI-enabled digital innovation.

Over the years, Korea has consistently strengthened transparency and trust amid a rapidly evolving domestic and global environment. Through this Congress, we look forward to sharing our experience with the global community while co-creating new value for future generations.

KICPA will work closely with IFAC—from program design through on-site delivery—to ensure a high-quality and rewarding experience for all participants. We also invite every participant to experience Seoul’s vibrant culture and dynamic innovation ecosystem during the Congress and to leave with forward-looking insights.”

IFAC looks forward to working with KICPA to deliver a world-class event in November 2026. Subscribe to IFAC newsletters and follow us on LinkedIn for more announcements in the coming months. For more information on WCOA 2026, please email WCOA@IFAC.org.

About IFAC

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.     

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.     

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.     

About KICPA

The Korean Institute of Certified Public Accountants (KICPA), established in 1954 under the Certified Public Accountants Act, is the statutory professional body representing Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Korea. Guided by the principle that sound accounting makes economic fundamentals sound, KICPA works to build trust and transparency in Korea's financial markets. Through setting professional standards, ensuring ethical conduct, and supporting continuous professional development, KICPA enables CPAs to serve the public interest, promote sound corporate governance, and contribute to Korea's economic development. KICPA is a member of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), the global home for the accountancy profession dedicated to serving the public interest.

Zaakirah Mohamed is a Chartered Accountant and Registered Auditor, currently serving as an Audit Inspector with the South African Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA). In this role, Zaakirah is a vital part of the Audit Development Program (ADP), where she specializes in monitoring the environments at audit firm that are developing future Registered Auditors to ensure they are fit for purpose by evaluating firms’ compliance with the current quality standards.

Zaakirah holds a Bachelor of Accounting Sciences degree from Wits University, where she was also a member of the astute Golden Key Members and brings over a decade of experience in the auditing profession.

Zaakirah completed her articles at a Big Four firm, gaining expertise in the Mining and Natural Resources industry as well as specializing in Learning and Development, with a focus on both technical and interpersonal skills. She has worked in and out of practise, spending 2 years in Commerce as a Financial Manager in the Automotive industry, however, always finds her way back to the world of Auditing. Her career spans both practical and theoretical aspects of auditing, consistently demonstrating a commitment to excellence and a passion for the field.

Zaakirah’s work focuses on supporting firms in aligning their quality systems and structures with established standards and regulations, ensuring compliance and promoting best practices. She has extensive experience in both education and auditing, with her role at the IRBA allowing her to integrate these areas to strengthen the pipeline of auditors entering the profession.

Africa is a source of growth, innovation, and opportunity, and the accountancy profession is rising to meet the moment. This week in Nairobi, IFAC Connect^TM Africa 2025 brings together public and private sector leaders, regulators, standard setters, and professional accountancy organizations to accelerate a shared vision for sustainable development across the continent.  

Convened by the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) and co-hosted with the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA) and the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK), IFAC Connect Africa 2025 launches the second annual IFAC Connect series, designed to ensure international standards and best practices support local solutions. As Africa advances its economic and institutional development, the continent faces both opportunities and challenges across several critical fronts. Navigating these interconnected issues requires coordinated leadership and dialogue across the public and private sectors. IFAC Connect Africa 2025 offers a platform for regional and international leaders to convert insights into action—strengthening trust in institutions, reinforcing the role of professional accountancy organizations and their members, and ensuring the continent is well-positioned to meet the expectations of financial markets, investors, and its citizens. 

As Africa accelerates its transformation, the accountancy profession is central to strengthening governance, advancing sustainability, building talent, enabling regional integration, and fighting financial crime. Over two days, leaders will focus on turning global standards and shared priorities into practical, locally relevant action across both public and private sectors.  

Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer, said: 

“Regional professional accounting leadership is driving economic growth and resilience. With our valued members and partners in Africa, we are all striving for common goals of the use of global standards shaped within local and regional conditions in the public interest. I am privileged to work with many talented colleagues in Africa and we will continue to find opportunities to grow and shape our trusted profession. We are Better Together.” 

Prem Govender, PAFA Vice President, said:  

“Africa’s accountancy profession is stepping forward to shape the continent’s future. This collaboration with IFAC and ICPAK reflects our shared vision of a profession that is inclusive, future-focused, and essential to Africa’s sustainable development.” 

IFAC’s longstanding partnership with PAFA is central to its work in Africa and reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the profession’s capacity to serve the public interest, drive economic transformation, and meet global expectations. From supporting PAFA’s establishment to co-developing strategic initiatives across the continent, IFAC has worked closely with PAFA to amplify Africa’s voice in the global accountancy ecosystem. The two organizations collaborate to align regional priorities with international standards, optimize resources, and ensure consistent, trusted messaging across the profession. IFAC Connect Africa 2025 builds on this strong foundation and serves as the next chapter in a shared effort to deliver global solutions that reflect and respond to Africa’s unique opportunities and realities. 

Prof. Elizabeth Kalunda, Chair, ICPAK: 

“Hosting IFAC Connect Africa 2025 in Nairobi underscores Kenya’s commitment to regional leadership in the profession. Together with IFAC and PAFA, we are driving a transformative agenda grounded in accountability, transparency, and innovation. This event is an opportunity to chart a path that responds to Africa’s needs while contributing meaningfully to the global conversation.” 

Following IFAC Connect Africa 2025, ICPAK will host its Member Practice Forum, featuring a keynote address by Lee White. 

IFAC Connect Africa 2025 is the first of four IFAC Connect events this year followed by MENA in Riyadh in October, Global 2025 in Mexico City in November, and ASIAPAC in Jakarta in December. 

About IFAC  

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.     

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.     

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.     

About PAFA  

PAFA is an IFAC Network Partner and Regional Organization, representing the accountancy profession in Africa. PAFA has 57 member organizations in 47 countries in Africa and five international affiliates. PAFA’s vision is sustainable value creation for the citizens of Africa. This is achieved by strengthening the capacity and influence of the accountancy profession to enhance trade, the quality of services, and trust in institutions.  

About ICPAK 

The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) is the statutory body of Accountants established by the Accountants Act CAP 531.The Institute is also a member of the Pan Africa Federation of Accountants (PAFA) and the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), the global umbrella body for the accountancy profession. 

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) welcomes the appointment of Julia Rendschmidt as the new Executive Director of the International Forum of Independent Audit Regulators (IFIAR), effective 1 October. IFAC also extends its sincere thanks to Delon Abrams for his dedication and leadership while serving as Acting Executive Director over the past several months.

Lee White, Chief Executive Officer of IFAC, said:

“On behalf of IFAC and the global accountancy profession, I warmly congratulate Julia on her appointment. Her proven leadership, deep regulatory expertise, and strong commitment to audit quality will serve IFIAR well as it continues its important mission to strengthen audit oversight and public trust. We look forward to working closely with Julia in this next chapter for IFIAR.

I also want to express my gratitude to Delon for his steady stewardship during the transition. His commitment and professionalism ensured IFIAR remained on course and operating effectively, and we thank him for his service”.

Ms. Rendschmidt currently serves as Head of Division for EU and International Affairs with the German Auditor Oversight Body (AOB), where she has played a key role as a national regulator. She also represents Germany at board level within IFIAR and at plenary level on the Committee of European Auditing Oversight Bodies (CEAOB).

“Julia will no doubt build on IFIAR’s success to date and advance its work to enhance audit quality and contribute to the stability of the global financial system. I have had the pleasure of working with Julia in audit oversight and regulation in the past, and I look forward to renewing our constructive and collaborative relationship in her new role”, Mr. White added.

About IFAC

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) extends its sincere thanks to David Isherwood, Ethics Partner at BDO UK, for his outstanding leadership and service to the Forum of Firms (FoF, Forum) and the global profession. David has chaired the FoF since November 2017.

We also warmly welcome Fiona Campbell from Ernst & Young Global Limited as the new Chair of the FoF, effective July 23, 2025. Fiona is an EY partner based in Melbourne, Australia.

Lee White, Chief Executive Officer of IFAC, said: “David’s thoughtful and proactive leadership has left a lasting impact. In particular, he has driven the Forum of Firms and its mission forward, so that the profession continues to meet the highest standards of integrity and quality. His commitment to the practical implementation of global standards, in the public interest, and to fostering collaboration across the profession has been truly appreciated. We thank David for his invaluable work and contributions, including his prominent and active role in the joint IFAC-IESBA Summit, and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

Mr. White continued: "I’ve also had the great pleasure of working with Fiona in multiple roles, and I know she brings exceptional judgment, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to audit quality and the public interest. Her service to our profession as a former Board Member of the IAASB, including as Deputy Chair, and her ongoing leadership at EY, position her well to guide the Forum at this critical moment for the profession, as the global accountancy community navigates a fast-changing environment."

Fiona’s passion for audit, her global perspective, and her focus on quality and collaboration will serve the FoF well as it continues to advance key priorities—from audit quality and sustainability to regulatory alignment and global trust.

“The Forum of Firms was established in 2002 and has since been a unique and highly valued partner to IFAC. I remain committed to engaging with this very important Forum—working together to innovate and deliver sustained value to the global accountancy profession,” Mr. White concluded.

About IFAC

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) warmly congratulates Kurt Hohl on his appointment as Chief Accountant at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), effective July 7, 2025.

Lee White, Chief Executive Officer of IFAC, said: "Kurt Hohl’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for global financial markets. His deep technical expertise, global perspective, and unwavering commitment to audit quality and investor protection make him an exceptional choice to lead the Office of the Chief Accountant. We look forward to continued collaboration in pursuit of transparent, high-quality financial reporting and assurance standards."

Mr. Hohl brings nearly four decades of experience across public practice, regulatory service, and advisory roles. Most recently, he was the founder of Corallium Advisors, offering strategic guidance on regulatory compliance, auditing, and risk management. Prior to that, he served 26 years as a partner at Ernst & Young (EY), including as global deputy vice-chair of EY’s Global Assurance Professional Practice. He is a former Associate Chief Accountant at the SEC, where he authored the foundational Financial Reporting Manual.

"Mr. Hohl’s return to the SEC signals a renewed emphasis on leadership that values both public interest and professional excellence. His leadership will help steer the accounting and auditing landscape through an era of innovation and growing global complexity," added Lee White.

"On behalf of the global accountancy profession, we extend our warmest congratulations and support as he assumes this vital role."

IFAC also expresses sincere appreciation to Ryan Wolfe for his dedicated service as Acting Chief Accountant. "Ryan’s steady leadership during this transition period has been instrumental in upholding the SEC’s mandate. We are very pleased that he will continue contributing his expertise in the Division of Enforcement," Lee White concluded.

About IFAC

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.