ICAEW appoints new sustainability reporting and assurance director

ICAEW has appointed sustainability specialist Ravi Abeywardana as sustainability reporting and assurance director, in response to rising global demand for consistent sustainability reporting and assurance.

Abeywardana, who joins later this month, previously served as director of strategic affairs and capacity building at the IFRS Foundation for the International Sustainability Standards Board. 

He was a key figure in the development of the IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards, including work on the exposure draft of IFRS S1, and oversaw global initiatives to help jurisdictions adopt and implement the standards.

In his new role, Abeywardana will oversee the institute’s work to advance sustainability reporting and assurance. 

This will involve engagement with members, regulators and other stakeholders to influence standard setting, strengthen market confidence and expand member skills.

The appointment reflects ICAEW’s increasing focus on sustainability and its aim to support members as regulatory expectations evolve across global markets.

The institute launched its sustainability accelerator programme earlier this year to strengthen sustainability skills among finance professionals and recently hosted its first Asean sustainability summit in Malaysia to advance the region’s net-zero agenda.

Abeywardana said: “ICAEW members can and should lead on sustainability reporting and assurance, collaborating with experts where necessary. This isn’t just about compliance – it’s about giving businesses, investors and other stakeholders the information they need to make better decisions.

“I’m excited to work with ICAEW colleagues and members globally to help businesses across all sectors disclose and assure sustainability information with the same rigour and credibility our profession brings to financial reporting and assurance.” 

Alan Vallance, ICAEW chief executive, added: “I am delighted to welcome Ravi to the team. Sustainability is fast becoming a cornerstone of global business activity and reporting – helping to set strategy, promote investment and drive growth. 

“There has been rapid progress in sustainability disclosures and reporting requirements, and expectations continue to increase. Ravi’s skills and experience will be invaluable in helping us strengthen our influence in this market and equipping our members for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”