Barry Melancon, chair of Baker Tilly International, has been named one of two recipients of the prestigious 2025 International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) Global Leadership Award – an honour reserved for individuals whose influence leaves an enduring, positive impact on the global accountancy profession.
Mr Melancon, CPA, CGMA, former CEO of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), has been a transformative force for more than 30 years. During a period marked by profound global, technological and organisational change, he has consistently championed innovation, strengthened public trust and advanced collaboration across borders.
Across his career, Mr Melancon has shaped the profession’s strategic direction in digital transformation, audit quality, sustainability reporting, ethics and competency development. His leadership has helped unify the accounting profession worldwide and prepare it to meet the demands of an increasingly complex and rapidly evolving environment.
Today, he continues to influence the profession’s future through key advisory and governance roles, including serving as chair of Baker Tilly International and on the Global Advisory Board at Caseware.
IFAC president Jean Bouquot commented: “Barry’s contributions have fundamentally shaped the modern accountancy profession. His vision for a technology-enabled, globally connected profession has enhanced professional quality, helped prepare generations of accountants for the future, and strengthened the public’s trust.”
Francesca Lagerberg, CEO of Baker Tilly International, said: “Barry has been a catalyst for global change in our profession. His ability to anticipate what’s next, and mobilise the profession towards it, has made all of us stronger. This award reflects the extraordinary impact he continues to have on accounting worldwide.”
Earlier this year, Mr Melancon was inducted into the Accounting Hall of Fame by the American Accounting Association (AAA), recognising his contributions to the profession.
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