Founded in 1919, CIMA is the leading management accounting body of 77,000 students and 60,000 members in 155 countries. Unlike other accounting or financial qualifications, its scope extends beyond pure accountancy and management. Its key activities are related to strategy in finance, business and information.

CIMA attracts those entering the business field; its syllabus is commercially relevant, often reflecting new developments. In today's global competition, chartered management accountants are trained to provide timely and accurate financial information. Most executives rely on their finance advisors to help them analyse financial consequences of decisions and understand risks and changes often faced by companies. Thus, management accountancy skills influence every area of a business.