Harper May | Knowledge Hub | UK Accounting Recruitment Agency

Accountants juggle diverse tasks, from solving financial mysteries to offering strategic advice. Their day involves managing deadlines, ensuring accuracy, and supporting business growth, all while staying calm under pressure. It’s a dynamic, challenging, and rewarding role with lasting impact.

Expanding your finance team strategically involves assessing current needs, defining clear roles, investing in skilled talent, embracing technology, promoting internal growth, outsourcing when necessary, and fostering diversity. This ensures your finance function supports long-term business growth and profitability.

Private equity's impact on the accounting industry is still uncertain, according to Stuart Marcy of Gerald Edelman. While PE brings efficiency and growth, long-term effects are unclear. Marcy emphasizes the need for cultural alignment and notes increasing regulatory scrutiny on consolidation and takeovers.

Anna Anthony has been appointed as EY's UK and Ireland regional managing partner, becoming the first woman to lead a 'Big Four' firm in the UK. With over 20 years at EY, Anthony will assume the role in January 2025, succeeding Hywel Ball.

The Accounting Excellence Awards 2024 celebrate the achievements of AAT members, recognising outstanding contributions to the accountancy profession. With over a dozen AAT members shortlisted, the event highlights innovation, excellence, and ambition. The ceremony is on 8 October at Camden Roundhouse.

Ian Pay, head of data analytics at ICAEW, highlighted the risks of AI in accounting, emphasising transparency, human oversight, and ethical use. He stressed that accountants must understand AI’s limitations, particularly potential biases and errors, while maintaining accountability and data security.