ICAG appoints Eric Oduro Osae as CEO – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

In a significant development for Ghana’s financial and professional services sector, the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG) has announced the appointment of Eric Oduro Osae as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Effective January 5, 2026, Osae succeeds the previous leadership and steps into a role that carries both national and regional importance. With over 25 years of experience in accounting, law, and governance, his appointment marks a new chapter for ICAG’s mission to uphold integrity, competence, and ethical standards in the accounting profession.

Eric Oduro Osae’s career reflects a blend of public service, international expertise, and academic rigor. As a Fellow of ICAG and a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Ghana, his credentials are widely recognized. This article explores the details of his appointment, his professional background, and the implications for ICAG and the broader accounting community in Ghana and West Africa.

Key Points

Background

The Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG)

The Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG) is the statutory body responsible for regulating the accounting profession in Ghana. Established under the ICAG Act, 1973 (NRCD 175), it sets professional standards, conducts examinations, and ensures ethical compliance among chartered accountants. ICAG plays a critical role in maintaining public trust in financial reporting and supports economic development through a robust accounting framework.

As a member of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) and the West African Union of Accountants (WAUA), ICAG aligns its practices with global standards. Its influence extends beyond Ghana, contributing to regional harmonization of accounting practices in West Africa.

Eric Oduro Osae: A Profile of Excellence

Eric Oduro Osae’s career is distinguished by a commitment to public service, transparency, and professional excellence. Before his appointment as CEO, he served as Director-General of the Internal Audit Agency (IAA), a position he held with distinction. In this role, he was instrumental in strengthening public financial controls and promoting accountability in government institutions.

His leadership at the IAA was marked by reforms that enhanced the quality and independence of internal audits across the public sector. These efforts contributed to improved financial governance and reduced the risk of fraud and mismanagement in public entities.

International Recognition and UN Roles

Osae’s expertise has been recognized beyond Ghana’s borders. He served as an Audit and Assurance Advisor to the United Nations, contributing to the work of the Independent Audit Advisory Committee (IAAC) of the UN General Assembly. In this capacity, he provided guidance on audit practices and financial oversight for one of the world’s largest international organizations.

In 2024, he was appointed by the United Nations as a Governmental Expert on Anti-Corruption under the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC). This role underscored his reputation as a leading voice in the fight against corruption and his commitment to ethical governance.

Academic and Professional Contributions

Eric Oduro Osae holds a Doctorate in Political Economy, a Master of Laws (LL.M.), and multiple professional qualifications. His academic work bridges the fields of economics, law, and public administration, reflecting his interdisciplinary approach to governance and accountability.

He is a prolific author and speaker, having authored and presented over 90 papers on topics including public sector accounting, auditing standards, corporate governance, and financial reform. His contributions have influenced policy discussions and professional practices in Ghana and the broader region.

Notably, Osae has a long-standing relationship with ICAG, having previously served as an Examiner and Moderator in Public Sector Accounting and Finance. In these roles, he directly shaped the education and training of future chartered accountants, ensuring they were equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for modern professional practice.

Analysis

Strategic Implications for ICAG

The appointment of Eric Oduro Osae as CEO of ICAG is more than a personnel change; it represents a strategic move to strengthen the institute’s role in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. His background in public sector reform, international standards, and anti-corruption positions him well to lead ICAG through current and future challenges.

One of the key areas where his leadership is expected to make an impact is in enhancing the credibility and relevance of the chartered accountancy profession. With increasing demands for transparency and accountability in both public and private sectors, the role of professional accountants has never been more critical.

Osae’s experience with international bodies like the United Nations also opens opportunities for ICAG to deepen its engagement with global accounting standards and best practices. This could lead to greater alignment with international frameworks, improved cross-border recognition of Ghanaian qualifications, and enhanced collaboration with regional and global partners.

Focus on Governance and Ethics

Given his extensive work in governance and anti-corruption, Osae is likely to prioritize ethical standards and professional conduct within the accounting profession. This focus is essential in maintaining public trust, especially in the wake of high-profile financial scandals globally that have underscored the need for strong ethical leadership.

His leadership may also emphasize the role of accountants as stewards of public interest, not just compliance officers. This shift in perspective aligns with global trends that view accountants as key contributors to sustainable development, good governance, and economic stability.

Modernization and Innovation

The accounting profession is undergoing rapid transformation due to technological advancements, including automation, data analytics, and blockchain. As CEO, Osae is expected to guide ICAG in adapting to these changes by updating curricula, enhancing digital skills training, and promoting innovation among members.

His academic background and experience in public sector reform suggest a willingness to embrace change and implement forward-looking policies. This could include initiatives to integrate technology into accounting education, improve continuing professional development (CPD) programs, and support research and innovation in the field.

Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration

In its announcement, ICAG called on all stakeholders—including members, staff, students, regulators, and the media—to support the new CEO. This emphasis on collaboration reflects the understanding that the challenges facing the profession require a collective effort.

Osae’s leadership style, shaped by years of working in diverse and complex environments, is expected to be inclusive and consultative. Building strong relationships with government agencies, professional bodies, educational institutions, and international partners will be key to advancing ICAG’s mission.

Practical Advice

For ICAG Members

Members of ICAG are encouraged to actively engage with the new leadership and participate in initiatives aimed at strengthening the profession. This includes:

• Participating in continuing professional development programs to stay current with best practices and emerging trends.
• Contributing to discussions on ethical standards and professional conduct.
• Supporting efforts to modernize accounting education and training.
• Engaging with ICAG’s outreach and advocacy activities to promote the value of the profession.

For Students and Aspiring Accountants

For those pursuing a career in chartered accountancy, the appointment of Eric Oduro Osae offers inspiration and guidance. His career demonstrates the value of:

• Continuous learning and professional development.
• Integrity and ethical conduct in all professional activities.
• Engagement with both national and international professional communities.
• Contributing to public service and the broader development of the profession.

For Regulators and Policy Makers

Regulators and policy makers can support the accounting profession by:

• Ensuring a regulatory environment that promotes transparency and accountability.
• Collaborating with ICAG on initiatives to strengthen financial governance.
• Supporting efforts to align national standards with international best practices.
• Recognizing the role of professional accountants in achieving sustainable development goals.

FAQ

Conclusion

The appointment of Eric Oduro Osae as CEO of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana marks a pivotal moment for the profession. His extensive experience in public service, international governance, and professional education positions him as a leader capable of guiding ICAG through the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

As Ghana continues to develop its financial sector and align with global standards, the role of professional accountants becomes increasingly vital. Under Osae’s leadership, ICAG is well-positioned to enhance its reputation, strengthen ethical standards, and support the growth of a competent and trusted accounting profession.

The coming years will likely see a renewed focus on governance, innovation, and collaboration—values that define Eric Oduro Osae’s career. By working together, stakeholders can help realize a vision of a stronger, more resilient accounting profession that contributes meaningfully to Ghana’s economic and social development.