The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and Ernst & Young Group Limited (EY) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today to enhance collaboration in sustainability, promoting professional excellence, advancing sustainability practices, and nurturing finance professionals for the changing world.

The MoU focuses on three key areas of collaboration, including the formal recognition of the Professional Diploma in Sustainability (ProDipSust), a collaborative research initiative and leveraging joint networks for greater impact. The ACCA ProDipSust will be recognised as a key qualification within the Sustainability division of EY  Greater China Region, in alignment with QPay standards, marking a significant step forward in promoting professional excellence in sustainability across the region. A joint undertaking of a comprehensive Greater Bay Area (GBA) survey, aligning with ACCA’s Global Professional Insights report, ‘Sustainability Reporting: Track Your Progress’, will be introduced to generate actionable insights that contribute meaningfully to the regional sustainability agenda. The MoU will also pave the way for both organisations to explore opportunities to leverage their networks of professional and industry stakeholders to advance mutual goals and foster impactful outcomes in the sustainability sector.

Helen Brand OBE, Chief Executive of ACCA, said, 'The MoU opens up a bright new future for the productive and close partnership that flourishes between ACCA and EY, marking a significant step forward in promoting professional excellence in sustainability across the region. It also marks our commitment in promoting the accountancy profession. It also opens up new opportunities for more people to pursue a professional education and career; to serve the public good; and to give this region, China and the world the accountancy profession it needs.'

Jasmine Lee, EY Hong Kong and Macau Managing Partner, said, ‘The MoU signifies a promising new chapter in the longstanding collaborative relationship between ACCA and EY, reinforcing our shared commitment to advancing sustainability excellence across the region. By leveraging our extensive resources, particularly within the Greater Bay Area, we aim to contribute valuable insights that drive sustainable development and nurture future-ready talent. This collaboration enhances the accountancy profession’s role in shaping a sustainable future, while creating new pathways for emerging professionals to develop their skills and drive meaningful impact worldwide.’