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Prestigious award recognises key role in the global development of the profession

27 Nov 2008

ACCA has awarded honorary membership to Sir John Stuttard MA.

The prestigious award, only the fifth bestowed by ACCA since 1999, was conferred on Sir John Stuttard by ACCA's president Richard Aitken-Davies at ACCA's International Assembly in London on 20 November.

'ACCA's Council took the decision in 1999 to award honorary membership to truly exceptional individuals who have played a pivotal role in the international development of the accountancy profession,' said Aitken-Davies.

'Sir John has had an illustrious career as a qualified chartered accountant, spending over 41 years with PricewaterhouseCoopers, where he is currently vice-chairman of PwC UK's Advisory Panel. For five years he chaired PwC's business in China. His strong interest in education ensured that, as Lord Mayor of London in 2006, Sir John spent his tenure championing business education and professional skills.

'Sir John's expertise and knowledge is reflected in his two books - The New Silk Road - Secrets of Business Success in China Today, published in 2000, and From Whittington to World Financial Centre - The City of London and its Lord Mayor, published in early December 2008. This includes an analysis of London's emergence as the leading international financial centre, together with a view of the sub-prime crisis and the Northern Rock incident - and lessons learnt; a riveting read in these turbulent times.'

Aitken-Davies concluded: 'Sir John is deservedly regarded as one of the most prominent leaders of the accounting profession and thoroughly merits our global award to recognise his achievements.'

On receiving his honorary membership, Sir John said: 'I admire what ACCA has achieved over the years, developing its business overseas as well as in the UK. The emerging markets have benefited from the training and qualifications given to students. The international accounting firms and many corporations have been pleased to be associated with ACCA to ensure a growing supply of talented people who are properly trained and with high professional standards. I am honoured to become an honorary member of this prestigious body.'