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KARACHI, May 12, 2026: The Professional Accountants in Business (PAIB) Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP) held the ICAP CFO Conference 2026 under the theme “The New Playbook – Adapt, Innovate, Elevate.” The event brought together finance professionals, business leaders, policymakers, and thought leaders to discuss the changing role of finance leadership in a complex economic environment.
In his opening address, ICAP President Mr. Samiullah Siddiqui, FCA, welcomed participants. He said the CFO role has shifted from financial control to strategic leadership. He also stressed that finance leaders must adapt quickly, innovate responsibly, and lift organizational performance amid volatility, disruption, and rising expectations.
The conference opened with a keynote titled “From Volatility to Value: Strategic Leadership in Challenging Times.” Mr. Junaid Iqbal, Founder & CEO of Salt Ventures, spoke about managing uncertainty. He also highlighted risk management and value creation through resilient leadership.
Moreover, a panel discussion titled “Repricing Risk, Rediscovering Value: Pakistan’s Economic Outlook” examined key economic pressures. These included taxation issues, policy gaps, liquidity constraints, and geopolitical risks. At the same time, the panel highlighted new investment opportunities. Participants included Mr. Ziad Bashir, Mr. Irfan Amanullah, and Mr. Farrukh H. Khan, while Mr. Fawad Aftab moderated the session.
In addition, the conference focused on technology in finance. In a session titled “AI in Action: How Pakistani CFOs Are Using AI for Growth and Resilience,” Mr. Saad Kaliya explained practical AI use in finance. Separately, Mr. Dan Worsley of IFAC shared global insights on future-ready finance in emerging economies.
Furthermore, Dr. Shade Zehrai led a session titled “Big Trust: Rewire Self-Doubt for Leadership Impact.” She focused on leadership mindset and personal confidence.
The event also featured a panel titled “What Attracts Serious Capital in Today’s Landscape.” The discussion explored investment trends and capital flows. It included Mr. Farrukh Sabzwari, Mr. Muhammad Asim, and Mr. Muhammad Ali Ahmed, with Mr. Usama Rashid as moderator.
Meanwhile, Mr. Muhammad Zaid Kaliya addressed the audience in “Elevate More Heroes.” He urged finance leaders to mentor and develop future professionals.
Another panel, “Rewriting the Rules: Turning Uncertainty into Capability-Led Growth,” focused on skills needed in a changing world. It covered technology disruption, geopolitical risk, and external shocks. The panel included senior executives from National Foods, Dawlance, Meezan Bank, and others. Mr. Adeel Azhar moderated the session.
The conference also included a well-being session titled “Pause, Breathe, Laugh: Micro-Moments That Matter.” Mr. Adeel Hashmi led the session and emphasized resilience and mental health.
Finally, a fireside chat titled “Why Pakistan?” highlighted Pakistan’s potential in BPO and shared services. Mr. Asif Peer and Mr. Hasham Baber discussed global outsourcing trends and Pakistan’s competitive edge.
Overall, the ICAP CFO Conference 2026 provided a platform for finance leaders to exchange ideas. It also helped them explore solutions for sustainable growth and stronger decision-making in a fast-changing environment.
