top stories

money laundering reporting officer, MHA Consulting, UK

Asked what ACCA membership means to him, Peter responds: 'It is a truly global body, known for the broad view it takes rather than its members being perceived only as corporate accountants and auditors. There is no typical ACCA member; rather they are differentiated from other finance professionals by being a collection of individuals rather than of stereotypes.'

Having started his career in banking, Peter moved after seven years into internal bank audit work, initially in the UK and then, following a job change, at a global level. During the 1980s this included regular assignments in Europe, the US and the Caribbean. Subsequently, he broadened his experience by moving into fund management, initially as an internal auditor, but later adding compliance and most recently responsibility as money laundering reporting officer. For the last four years, he has worked for a major anti-money laundering compliance consultancy firm. In addition, Peter has had the honour conferred upon him of becoming a Freeman of the City of London. And did this progress come about through careful planning? 'Initially going into banking was a matter of opportunity, but from there on it was a case of working hard and developing.

'Over the past 20 years there have been many changes of emphasis in the role of the profession, often born of radical legislation,' says Peter. 'The recent Enron and WorldCom affairs should remind us of the ever present need to be prepared to say "no" to a job that cannot be done properly for what the client is prepared to pay.

'Responsibility in accounting means honesty and integrity in practice.'