To our IMA members in Europe:

I hope you, your families, and your communities are staying healthy as Europe slowly and safely unlocks its economies. In Europe, the COVID-19 crisis is getting slightly better, and we see that restrictions are easing in many countries. Traffic is getting busier, schools are reopening, and some of us are returning to the office. All of this is happening under strict measures given by our local governments, of course, but life is gradually returning to normal and I see a positive, forward-looking vibe. 

When the COVID-19 crisis started, IMA^® (Institute of Management Accountants) made it very clear that we wanted to support our members and that we put compassion above commercialism. We canceled events across Europe and made select resources available for free to nonmembers. When our activities went virtual, we were concerned that people would be less engaged, but it was the other way around. I see that the IMA community is connected more than ever and that members are networking and learning from each other. This is great to see and shows the amazing strength of our international network. 

As IMA staff, we did our utmost to make sure you can continue your professional development. We launched several new CPE courses, and the response was high. I saw many IMA members on my LinkedIn timeline posting they finished the new Data Analytics & Visualization Fundamentals Certificate course. In addition, IMA Director of Regional Partner Relations Bernardin Generalao and I were able to share thought leadership insights on our social media accounts. Visit these links to see our reflections on risk management, communication skills, and digital technology:

• https://www.cf-fachportal.de/meldungen/risikomanagement-im-unternehmen-kernkompetenz-der-finanzabteilung/ (in German)
• https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/strong-communication-skills-essential-driving-results-alain-mulder/ 
• https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/european-firms-lag-behind-united-states-adoption-digital-alain-mulder/ 

I was also very gratified when our Member Service team in Amsterdam received a compliment from one of our European members, who noted that in this difficult period with social distancing and other measures, IMA succeeded in being as close to its members as possible. This makes me proud. It is truly a joint effort of IMA volunteers, chapter leaders, and IMA staff across Europe—and the world!

I look forward to meeting you all again soon in person, and always feel free to contact me with any ideas, questions, or concerns at amulder@imanet.org. Stay safe!