Future accountancy stars come of age
MORE than 50 budding chartered accountants from across the region have celebrated becoming fully qualified professionals at two special ceremonies.
The events, hosted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants, England and Wales are designed to recognize exam success for the trainees, welcome them into membership and prepare them for the next steps in their careers.
Sixteen trainee accountancy professionals met at the Victoria Gallery and Museum at the University of Liverpool, while 40 gathered at Chetham’s School of Music in Manchester.
Both events attracted more than 170 people.
National ICAEW president Hilary Lindsay presented certificates and prizes to outstanding candidates and signposted new members to support, opportunities and benefits of a relationship with the ICAEW in their local area.
Alan Clarke, president of the ICAEW Chartered Accountants Manchester, said: “We know that success in getting this world-renowned professional qualification is often celebrated within firms or companies where students have trained and qualified.
“The ICAEW also wanted to acknowledge their achievements and show how much we appreciate the huge effort that goes into successfully balancing work and study.
“And to recognise the support that comes from families and friends behind the scenes and allow them to share in the moment.”
It was an extra special day for Aisha Anwar, of CLB Coopers in Manchester, who won first prize in Strategic Business Management and second prize in the Advanced Level International Order of Merit.
Anwar topped not just those in the UK taking the ACA qualification, but ICAEW members worldwide.
She said of the ACA exams. “You can’t take them lightly but if you are prepared to put the work hard you can go far.”
“It was great to see the ICAEW – both nationally and locally – marking the moment for us and our families and to start our career journey with their support.”
Manchester and Liverpool ‘district societies’ – the local arms of the ICAEW – and the regional North West body provide a range of services for young chartered accountants.
These include technical updates, soft skills and career development masterclasses as well as pan-professional social and networking events.
North West regional director Melanie Christie added that the ACA qualification was a passport to unlimited opportunities in the profession both here and overseas.
She said: “Previous young CAs have gone on to enjoy a variety of careers, choosing work abroad, joining FTSE 100 companies, taking on non-financial and/or consulting roles for leading firms. We wish everyone a very successful onward journey.”
