Chartered Accountants Ireland has named the shortlisted finalists in its 2022 Chartered Star competition.
The award from the professional accountancy body recognises exceptional achievement among young and trainee chartered accountants around the island of Ireland.
For the last seven years, it has been awarded to someone who will lead, motivate, and inspire as they build their career.
Among the five finalists is Dublin native, Chartered Accountant, and manager of Grant Thornton’s sustainability advisory team, Peter Gillen.
Alongside his role helping clients navigate their sustainability journeys, Peter is involved with a number of initiatives which help further the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including as Secretary of Chartered Accountants Ireland’s Young Professionals Committee and Mentor for the Trinity Alumni Mentoring Programme.
Entrants to the competition were again this year challenged to demonstrate to the judging panel the ways in which they are making a difference and working towards, or supporting, the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The judging panel recorded an almost 20 percent increase in entries this year, from young professionals and accountancy students from across the island of Ireland.
Commenting, Director of Members at Chartered Accountants Ireland, Brendan O’Hora said
“It is extremely encouraging to see such a strong shortlist, with five people all at different stages in their Chartered journey doing stand-out work in support of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
“The accountancy profession will play a central and vital role in achieving climate change mitigation and adaptation.
“As a membership body, the Institute is working through our education and advocacy work to equip members to act, however, each year, our Chartered Star search highlights the inspiring work that is already underway among our 30,000-strong membership.
“Good luck to those shortlisted.”
The shortlisted finalists will now take part in an interview to discuss in-depth their work around the UN SDGs, with the final winner to be selected in the coming weeks. The winner will attend the One Young World Summit in Manchester this September, representing Chartered Accountants Ireland and Chartered Accountants Worldwide.
The shortlisted Chartered Stars are:
- Caoimhe Connolly, Junior Tax Associate, Cavanagh Kelly
- Peter Gillen, Manager, Sustainability Advisory Team, Grant Thornton
- Sinead Henry, Graduate Trainee Accountant, NI Audit Office
- Niamh McLernon, Sustainability Analyst, KPMG
- Fiona Smiddy, Founder & CEO, Green Outlook Ireland