I am delighted to bring you our inaugural digital only version of Accountancy Plus. This enhanced publication has been created in collaboration with Vertiqul software and heralds a new chapter that combines an exceptional reader experience with having a very positive environmental impact. This format will allow you to easily share content, access the journal at any time and the digital copy also allows you to easily navigate to links within the content.

We are dedicated to becoming a sustainable organisation and the move to a digital only journal is an important step in significantly reducing CPA Irelands carbon footprint.

As the final quarter of 2022 approaches, Council and the Executive of CPA Ireland are continuing to focus on the key strategic pillars of Brand, Product, Customer Centricity, People & Global.  

In relation to brand, this summer we ran digital campaigns that highlighted the many benefits that the CPA Qualification can offer trainees and members including unrivalled support through their journey, a best-in-class syllabus, countless global opportunities including the recent announcement of the MRA with the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the many job opportunities that are available. 

September is a time that many businesses and practices onboard new accounting trainees and I would ask you to continue to promote the CPA Qualification to any trainees and contact the Business Development Department should any trainee wish to register with CPA Ireland. 

We have expanded our range of products in the past number of years. The Digitalisation Hub continues to grow with the addition of new and exciting software solutions for Irish accountants and businesses. As technology continues to change the role of accountants and finance professionals, these software’s will help you to embrace digitalisation and to adapt to a digital environment. The new software providers will be doing live showcases over the coming months so I would encourage all members to take the time to navigate around the hub to discover how these new software solutions can positively impact their business. 

This year we continue to expand our resources to take account of more of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

In late October, during Climate Finance Week, we will be launching a bespoke Sustainability Hub for our members. The hub will be officially launched at an Online Sustainability Event on 20 October featuring sustainability experts and the real-life experience of an Irish business that has become carbon neutral. This event can be booked at https://portal.cpaireland.ie/Showcourses.aspx?id=22487.

Key developments in sustainability standards for non-financial reporting will be monitored by CPA Ireland with detailed information on when and how that reporting will impact your business and clients. The hub will cover all areas of importance to Irish businesses including Audit, Financial Reporting, Strategy, ESG Reporting, Sustainable Lending, Carbon Footprint reduction, Employee Health & Wellbeing as well as offering live sessions with key industry experts in sustainability and case studies of those who have managed a sustainable journey.  

As the 3-year CPD cycle is coming to an end this year, I would like to remind you of the suite of post-qualification specialisms we have on offer in Tax, Forensic Accounting, Data Analytics, Advanced VAT and more. These post-qualification specialisms allow you to enhance your qualification and stand out among your peers. More details of these can be found at https://bit.ly/32b2GkI.

I would also like to encourage you to visit our Wellbeing Platform which was developed last year in conjunction with Spectrum.Life. This platform gives members access to a host of Digital Wellbeing content, videos and podcasts, fitness and nutrition trackers, along with numerous health and wellbeing related rewards. 

Further information on how to register for the Wellness Platform can be found at https://www.cpaireland.ie/Members/Supports-Services/Wellbeing-Platform.

Finally, on 1 September, I had the pleasure of attending the Annual Irish Accountancy Awards to celebrate the success of many CPAs and other accountants for their contribution to the profession over the past 12 months. I would like to congratulate Geoff Meagher, a previous President of CPA Ireland who was presented with the Global Contribution to Accountancy Award. Nominated by CPA Ireland, this award recognises and celebrates the significant international achievement of an accountant that exemplifies the global nature of the profession. Geoff received this award for his contribution with emphasis on the growth of Glanbia in global markets. 

As the opportunity to convene in person increases, I look forward to meeting many of you at our events and conferences coming up over the next few months.