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Worldwide Search Launches for Volunteer Members to Serve on the IPSASB

Nov 10, 2022 | New York, New York | English

Volunteers are sought to serve as members on the International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB), an independent standard-setting body that serves the public interest by setting high-quality accounting standards for use by public sector entities around the world in the preparation of general purpose financial reports.

Volunteers’ initial three-year term of service will commence January 1, 2024. Candidates will ideally have a public sector background and/or experience in standard setting to be able to contribute value to the work of the Board. English proficiency (both written and oral) is essential, as this is the language in which the IPSASB operates, although nominations from jurisdictions where English is not the main language, are encouraged.

Nominations of qualified candidates from all regions of the world are encouraged, with a particular emphasis on Francophone Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Nominations from a wide range of relevant backgrounds are sought, including, but not limited to, candidates from:

  • Users of general purpose financial reports, such as parliamentarians, budget offices, and credit-rating agencies;
  • Ministries of Finance, Treasury Departments, and other such preparers of accrual-based financial statements, including those reporting directly or indirectly in accordance with IPSAS or in the process of transitioning to IPSAS; and
  • Public sector external auditors.

“In order to develop high-quality international standards and effectively promote IPSAS adoption, IPSASB volunteers need diverse backgrounds and skillsets,” said Ian Carruthers, IPSASB Chair. “With the continuing global transition to accrual IPSAS, I strongly encourage individuals that are using IPSAS, or actively transitioning to IPSAS, to apply and nominate candidates. In addition to the global impact volunteers can make, Board participation is also a valuable experience that benefits the volunteer and its nominating or employing organization.”

All stakeholders, including the general public, as well as International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) member organizations, the Forum of Firms, governments, and other organizations are invited to nominate candidates. 

The deadline for submitting applications is January 31, 2023. Please see the Call for Nominations for more details and information on how to submit an application.

About the IPSASB

The International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB) works to strengthen public financial management globally through developing and maintaining accrual-based International Public Sector Accounting Standards® (IPSAS®) and other high-quality financial reporting guidance for use by governments and other public sector entities. It also raises awareness of IPSAS and the benefits of accrual adoption. The Board receives support from the Asian Development Bank, the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada, the New Zealand External Reporting Board, and the governments of Canada and New Zealand. The structures and processes that support the operations of the IPSASB are facilitated by the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). For copyright, trademark, and permissions information, please go to permissions or contact permissions@ifac.org.

About the Nominating Committee

The Nominating Committee is responsible for the selection process for IPSASB membership, including leadership roles. The Public Interest Committee oversees the nominations process for IPSASB and provides its advice. The International Federation of Accountants® (IFAC®) Board approves the IPSASB composition. To learn more about the Nominating Committee, please visit IFAC website. 

About the Public Interest Committee

The governance and standard-setting activities of the IPSASB are overseen by the Public Interest Committee (PIC), to ensure that they follow due process and reflect the public interest. The PIC is comprised of individuals with expertise in public sector or financial reporting, and professional engagement in organizations that have an interest in promoting high-quality and internationally comparable financial information.