ICAP’s PAIB Committee Hosts CFO Conference 2025

The Professional Accountants in Business (PAIB) Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP) convened the CFO Conference 2025 at a local hotel, centering on the theme “Quantum Leap: Agility & Competitive Edge.”

Keynote Address by Syed Hyder Ali

A significant event during the conference was the keynote address, “Leadership Metamorphosis: Recalibrating CFOs in Motion,” delivered by Syed Hyder Ali, the Chief Executive and Managing Director of Packages Group. Ali explored the evolving roles of CFOs, highlighting their transition from conventional financial managers to influential strategic leaders. He underscored the capability of CFOs to stimulate innovation, enhance performance, and foster resilience in today’s unpredictable economic landscape.

President ICAP’s Address

ICAP President Saif Ullah delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the importance of this year’s theme. He reflected on the rapid changes transforming the global financial and business sectors, stating that modern finance leaders need to develop agility, adopt new technologies, and become strategic facilitators. He asserted that the ability to anticipate shifts and proactively generate value is crucial for sustained success in an era marked by complexity.

Samiullah Siddiqui’s Remarks

Samiullah Siddiqui, Vice President of ICAP, expressed gratitude to the guests, organizing committee, ICAP Council Members, sponsors, and participants for their roles in the conference’s success. He emphasized the developing role of CFOs as key drivers of organizational change, not just as protectors of financial integrity, but as forward-thinking leaders promoting digital integration, encouraging ethical governance, and guiding their organizations toward sustainable growth in a progressively intricate business environment.

Panel Discussion on Digital Ecosystems

The conference featured a panel discussion on ‘Empowered Growth: Leveraging the Digital Ecosystem’, moderated by Ms Sana Mela, Vice President Strategy at Swyft Logistics. Panelists included Atyab Tahir, CEO of Hugo Bank; Salman Hafeez, Executive Director at Nishat; and Faisal Khan, CEO of IGI General Insurance. The discussion explored how businesses can achieve scalable growth through digital transformation, real-time data analytics, and enhanced financial flexibility.

Presentation on Ethics in AI

Asmar Atif, Chief Intrapreneur and Head of Octopus Digital at Avanceon, presented “Ethics in AI: Safeguarding Trust & Transparency in Finance.” He examined the convergence of artificial intelligence and ethics in finance, highlighting the necessity for strong governance to ensure transparency, trust, and accountability in algorithm-driven financial decision-making.

IFAC CEO’s Keynote

Lee White, CEO of IFAC, delivered a keynote address titled “Finance in the Age of Acceleration: Navigating Complexity with Agility.” White urged finance professionals to adopt Artificial Intelligence, align with sustainability requirements, and embrace inclusive leadership models to remain relevant and competitive in an increasingly complex global economy.

SAFA President’s Presentation

Ashfaq Yusuf Tola, President of the South Asian Federation of Accountants (SAFA), gave a presentation on “Redefining Finance: Quantum Thinking for Agile Times.” He emphasized the importance of adaptive finance strategies in dynamic environments.

Discussion on Unleashing Potential

Faizan Hanif, an ICAP member, engaged in a conversation with Zunair Zafar, CFO of The International Grammar School, Lahore, titled “Unleash Your Superpower.” The discussion aimed to inspire emerging professionals to leverage their strengths and lead with purpose in the finance field.