International Compliance Association (ICA) is excited to announce its strategic partnership with the Asia-Pacific Risk Professionals Association (ARPA) to mark its expansion into the China market. This collaboration aims to enhance the standards of governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) through the newly launched ICA & ICCM Advanced Certification in GRC, specifically designed to meet the unique needs of the Chinese financial sector, as well as foster a strong compliance community and culture within Chinese financial institutions.
About Asia-Pacific Risk Professionals (ARPA)
Founded in Hong Kong in November 2016, ARPA is renowned for its commitment to providing certifications, education programs, and consultancy services in risk, compliance management, and internal control. As a Council Member Institution of the Global Banking Education Standards Board (GBEStB) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) cooperator of ICA, ARPA collaborates with regulators, international organizations, and educational institutions to promote best practices and advanced technologies across the Asia-Pacific region and globally.
ICA and ICCM Advanced Certification in Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC)
In collaboration with ARPA, ICA proudly introduces the ICA & ICCM Advanced Certification in Governance, Risk, and Compliance. This course provides specialist knowledge and practical skills to manage regulatory risk both now and in the future. Key topics include understanding regulation, governance, risk and compliance (GRC), financial crime, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues, conduct risk, and data management.
Developed by ICA's industry experts and practitioners, this certification is tailored to the Chinese market and will be delivered by seasoned course directors at ICA. The program is suitable for individuals pursuing a career in compliance, including those recently assigned compliance responsibilities, managers of compliance employees, and anyone seeking an understanding of fundamental regulatory compliance principles.
Beijing Trip Highlights
ICA APAC Managing Director, Lim May May, and ICA President, Pekka Dare, recently visited Beijing to strengthen this partnership. They, along with ARPA CEO Dr. Justin Xu, engaged in productive discussions with several local banks and associations.
Left to Right: Dr Justin Xu, Ms Lim May May and Mr Pekka Dare
Meeting at the Agricultural Bank of China
Meeting at NAFMII
Meeting at the China Banking Association
Meeting at ICBC
Key outcomes of these meetings included the introduction of a free trial for ICA's CPD learning content through the ICA Member’s Learning Hub. This platform offers extensive learning materials, interactive webinars, CPD tracking, networking opportunities, and practical tools to support the continuous professional development of compliance professionals. By providing access to these resources, ICA aims to support Chinese banks and associations in building a robust compliance network, helping professionals enhance their qualifications, stay updated with regulatory changes, and develop essential compliance and risk management skills.
Furthermore, ICA emphasized its role as a professional qualification provider, offering qualifications that complement the existing accreditations available in the Chinese market. The discussions highlighted ICA's expertise in key topics such as compliance, Know Your Customer (KYC), and Anti-Money Laundering (AML), which are crucial for addressing the current challenges faced by Chinese financial institutions.
These strategic discussions and agreements underscore ICA's dedication to fostering a strong compliance culture within the Chinese banks and associations, ultimately contributing to the development of a well-qualified and interconnected network of compliance professionals in China.
Presentation for the members of Agricultural Bank of China
Engaging with members of Insurance Association of China
What’s Next for ICA and ARPA
Looking ahead, ICA plans to further collaborate with ARPA and introduce its comprehensive suite of qualifications to the Chinese market, aiming to elevate professional standards and provide robust support for the financial industry's evolving needs. Before the end of the year, ICA will translate its short certificates and specialist certificates into simplified Mandarin and introduce them to the market.
Additionally, a wrap-up webinar hosted by ICA President Pekka Dare will be available on ARPA’s platform by June 28th, discussing the importance of building a strong compliance culture in China and fostering a network of compliance professionals in China. Future trips to Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen are also planned to connect with more local banks and associations.
Conclusion
For more information about the new ICA & ICCM Advanced Certification and our ongoing initiatives in China, please visit www.ARPA-global.org