SAICA has embarked on an exciting transformation to become an insights-driven, technology-enabled, and AI-powered organisation. As part of our journey, we are streamlining processes, enhancing our digital capabilities, and strengthening our focus on sustainability in the accounting profession. This transformation presents an opportunity for you to grow and contribute to SAICA’s vision in a redefined, future-fit role. We are looking for passionate, skilled professionals who are eager to innovate, embrace datadriven decision-making, and help shape the future of the profession.

If you are ready to be part of this next chapter, make a meaningful impact, and you are a suitably qualified and experienced Difference Maker wanting to go further on this exciting journey, you are encouraged to apply.

Purpose of the job

The Lead: Sustainability and Integrated Reporting is responsible for the development, delivery, and continuous improvement of learning and development programs focused on sustainability reporting, integrated reporting, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors. This role ensures that SAICA members and other professional stakeholders are equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge, and competencies to navigate and excel in the growing field of sustainability and integrated reporting.

A key aspect of this role is leveraging technology, data-driven decision making, and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the delivery of learning programs and to ensure that SAICA’s offerings remain aligned with emerging sustainability trends and industry requirements. This position also drives the development and implementation of a new specialised designation for sustainability professionals, which extends beyond traditional accounting and into broader sustainability roles. The Lead will work closely with internal teams to integrate sustainability and integrated reporting into current learning pathways and development programs for accountants.

Key/main outputs

Output 1: Design and Development of Sustainability and Integrated Reporting Programs

• Lead the creation of learning modules, workshops, and certifications focused on sustainability and integrated reporting that incorporate technology-enhanced learning and AI-driven assessments
• Develop educational content that covers key areas such as ESG reporting standards, sustainability frameworks, integrated reporting principles, and the intersection between financial and non-financial reporting
• Integrate data-driven insights and AI tools to continuously assess the effectiveness of training programs and identify emerging trends in sustainability reporting

Output 2: Program Delivery and Facilitation

• Oversee the delivery of sustainability and integrated reporting training across various formats, including digital platforms, AI-supported learning environments, and in-person workshops
• Facilitate learning sessions, ensuring that technology and data are used to personalise learning experiences and make content more relevant to participants’ needs
• Ensure that training content is kept up-to-date with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and emerging sustainability reporting frameworks
• Leverage data analytics and AI tools to monitor trends and identify areas for improvement

Output 3 Strategic Development of Specialised Sustainability Designation

• Define the approach and plan to design and implement a new specialised sustainability designation, with an emphasis on cross-sector collaboration beyond traditional accounting practitioners
• Identify market gaps and industry needs for sustainability professionals, leveraging data insights to create a new pathway that enhances SAICA’s relevance in the global sustainability ecosystem
• Work closely with the policy team and external stakeholders to ensure the designation meets global sustainability standards and market demand

Output 4: Continuous Improvement and Quality Assurance

• Regularly assess and evaluate the effectiveness of training programs through feedback collection, participant assessments, and AI-based analytics
• Use data-driven insights to adjust and improve learning content and delivery methods, ensuring they remain relevant and innovative
• Collaborate with SAICA’s policy and accreditation teams to ensure that the programs align with SAICA’s educational standards and compliance requirements

Output 5: Stakeholder Engagement and Networking

• Build and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders such as regulators, academic institutions, and global reporting bodies (e.g., GRI, IIRC)
• Engage with members and stakeholders to ensure that the learning and development needs for sustainability reporting are met, leveraging AI insights to identify and act on member need
• Represent SAICA in industry events, webinars, and conferences, showcasing SAICA’s commitment to a future-ready, insights-driven approach to sustainability education

Output 6: Embrace and drive organisational transformation

• Actively contribute to cost containment efforts by identifying opportunities for operational efficiencies, optimising resources, and ensuring value-driven decision-making in daily activities.
• Support SAICA’s transformation into an insights-driven organisation by leveraging data and analytics to enhance decision-making, improve processes, and drive continuous improvement in your area of work
• Effectively utilise digital tools and technology to enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and improve service delivery. Stay informed about new and emerging technologies relevant to your role
• Adopt and embrace AI-driven tools and automation to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and effectiveness in job-related tasks, while continuously seeking opportunities to improve processes through innovative technology solutions
• Identify and support SAICA’s management of risks related to sustainability, including environmental risks, regulatory changes and social risks and integrating them into business continuity and risk management plans