A Partnership Built on Shared Values and Long-Term Commitment
In this interview, Anna Blackman reflects on the long-standing partnership between the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) and the CEF, which has been strengthening public financial management capacities across South East Europe for more than two decades. The conversation highlights the value, objectives, and practical impact of this cooperation for public sector professionals and institutions across the region.
What has kept this partnership strong over two decades?
Honestly, I think it comes down to shared values and shared commitment to doing things properly. For twenty years, CIPFA and CEF have been building and delivering certification programs for public sector accountants and internal auditors across South East Europe - that's not a short-term project, it’s institution-building in a sustainable and long term way. What's kept it strong is that both organizations genuinely believe this work matters and have committed to making an impact of positive change. When that's true on both sides, the relationship remains strong.
How do you ensure international expertise adapts to local contexts?
You have to listen before you lead. The TIAPS and PACT programs are a good example of this – CIPFA provides international expertise and education standards but our strong partnership with CEF and local experts help to co-develop the syllabuses and teaching materials and they are delivered by a combination of international experts as well as by regional or local tutors, covering national legislation and context. That balance is everything. CIPFA brings the international standard and the recognition of being a global professional awarding body; CEF brings the deep regional expertise and strong impactful relationships. Neither of us could do it as well alone.
What keeps you motivated when progress is slow?
The people. We've now brought together experts from eleven countries who've been through CEF and CIPFA joint programs – accountants, auditors and public finance officials are more confident, more connected, and part of a professional community that didn't exist before. That doesn't always make the headlines, but it grows over time as public finance reform is generational work. You have to find meaning in the small wins, because they're what the bigger ones are built on.
How can partnerships like this develop future-ready leaders?
By continuing to invest in professional communities, not just qualifications. The most recent CEF-CIPFA conference in Zagreb this June focused on trust in public finance - that's exactly the right conversation to be having. The certification programs give people the technical foundation. The conferences and networks give them somewhere to take that knowledge, share it, and keep growing. That combination rigorous standards plus genuine community is what creates leaders who are ready for whatever comes next.