The centre, based in Cardiff and Vale College, will offer the full Chartered Public Finance Accountant professional qualification to the country’s future public service leaders, placing a specific focus on Welsh issues.
Students from NHS Wales, the Welsh Government and number of local authorities were among the first to begin the three-year professional qualification course taught at the centre. The new venue will complement online training services that are already used to support the development of public sector financial management leaders across Wales.
Chris Tidswell, head of CIPFA Wales, said the centre would provide bespoke training and support for public finance professionals who manage £38bn in annual public spending and shape services,
“The public sector in Wales is a hotbed of innovation with particular strengths in providing services to diverse communities,” he said.
“The CIPFA Cardiff training centre will help strengthen public financial management in Wales and spread Welsh innovation across the UK.”
Christine Salter, corporate director of resources at City of Cardiff Council, welcomed the opening.
“The CIPFA professional qualification is the world’s leading public finance qualification. CIPFA qualified accountants are recognised for their skills, knowledge and professionalism,” she said.
“This represents a unique opportunity, not only to improve public financial management in Wales, but also for organisations to unite and support the Welsh public sector finance community.”
