The Power of CGMA
Your professionalism needs to communicate a universal language about advanced competencies in data analytics, critical thinking, and finance leadership — the Chartered Global Management Accountant® (CGMA®) designation does exactly that.
When you have earned the CGMA designation, you become a CIMA member and convey to the world your advanced capabilities.
The CGMA designation is a globally recognised standard
The CGMA designation demonstrates that you can apply your finance, management, business operations, and strategic expertise to successfully lead businesses across the world. ‘CGMA’ is synonymous with the DNA of global business.
Two inspirational finance professionals, CIMA past President Nick Jackson, CGMA Fellow, and Carla Rossini, CGMA Fellow, share first hand perspectives on the value of achieving the CGMA designation and becoming CIMA members:
‘Being a CIMA member has multiple layers…it’s part of your CV; it’s recognition that you’ve achieved something of a certain standard and quality that employers recognise …and, for me, [being a CIMA member] is so much more. It’s about having a community and a network I can lean into’, Carla Rossini, CGMA Fellow and Chief Operating Officer at LEA Global, noted.
Nick Jackson, CGMA Fellow, Head of Finance & Operations Business Development & Strategy for Western Europe at Oracle, and former CIMA President (2020–2021), shared: ‘No matter where you work, a global mindset matters because no matter what you do, you are affected, your business, your organisation will be impacted by things that are going on globally.’
CIMA's legacy is one of leadership and evolution
CIMA came about due to increased costs for ammunition during the first World War. At the time, no one understood why costs were escalating, so it became important to look at pricing in a structured way — using a standardised approach to assess value for money so that expenses could be managed and controlled.
Founded in 1919 as the Institute of Cost and Works Accountants, the accounting body evolved to become the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants in 1972. And in 1986, after being granted a royal charter, the name was changed to the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants. In 1995, CIMA members were given the right to use the title Chartered Management Accountant. For more than a century, we’ve developed accounting and finance professionals who are ready to lead confidently, strategically, and ethically.
Our Future of Finance research inspired adjustments to our learning materials, and in May 2025, we announced updates to the syllabus and case studies. The CGMA Professional Qualification will continue to cultivate power skills — critical thinking ability, data analysis, and strategic planning in a world of AI and sustainability reporting.
In a fast-moving business landscape, standing still is not an option.
Additional resources
What did you think of this?
Every bit of feedback you provide will help us improve your experience
What did you think of this?
Every bit of feedback you provide will help us improve your experience