Highlights from October ICAEW Council meeting
ICAEW Council met on 6 and 7 October 2026 in London and online for two days of decisions, challenge and collaborative work. Members helped shape Direction 2030 priorities and tested how ICAEW can respond faster to change.
‘Council members are keen to feed in their experience to the development of the ICAEW’s thinking as the Direction 20230 strategy is delivered.
The bulk of the two days was spent addressing issues which were identified as key to that ambition. The balance was spent holding the Board to account and making decisions on issues raised by the Governance and Appointments Committee.’
Julian Daly, Chair of Council
The economic outlook
In a fireside discussion led by Board Chair Peter Wyman, the Rt Hon Sir Jeremy Hunt MP explored the UK outlook with Council. Members pressed for simpler taxes, investment and reform to unlock growth, while examining the UK’s potential to lead in AI-enabled services.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and the profession
Council moved the AI debate towards action, exploring how automation could free accountants to focus on judgement, assurance and advice. Members challenged ICAEW to accelerate responsible adoption through strong governance, verifiable outputs, audit trails and human accountability.
Future-Fit Brand
Council helped sharpen a confident, forward-looking ICAEW brand which is currently under development, rooted in excellence, integrity and trust. Members called for a clearer link between ICAEW, the ACA and member value, and a stronger account of the profession’s contribution to business and society.
Member Value Proposition
Council challenged ICAEW to make membership more relevant across different career stages, sectors and locations. Members prioritised recognition, technical knowledge, networks and career development, supported by more personalised engagement and clearer communication of benefits.
Policy priorities
Council tested ICAEW’s 2027 policy priorities against Direction 2030, focusing on growth, proportionate regulation, regional economies, trust and international influence. Members scrutinised reporting reform and urged greater use of Council members and local networks in policymaker engagement.
Council noted the establishment of a two-year Tax Commission, which will form a significant part of ICAEW’s policy activity over the coming years. The Commission will consider how the UK tax system can better support growth and investment, the future role of the tax profession.
Sustainability reporting and assurance
Council examined the commercial impact of climate change on supply chains, insurance, capital and resilience. Members championed the chartered accountants’ role in turning sustainability data into decision-useful insight and assurance, while calling for proportionate ISSB implementation and practical support for smaller firms.
Board update and organisational risk
Council held the Board to account for ICAEW’s principal risks, examining resilience, cyber security, technology, suppliers, regulation and competition. Members welcomed stronger assurance arrangements and received updates on the proposed CIPFA merger, Direction 2030 measures and a review of the ICAEW’s technology landscape.
Governance and Appointments Committee (GAC)
Council noted GAC’s positive effectiveness review and agreed to examine how revised governance arrangements are working in practice. It approved modernised Election Regulations and clear escalation processes if there are concerns about Board performance. Outgoing GAC Chair, David Matthews was thanked for his leadership of the reforms.
Volunteer at ICAEW
Do you have a passion for supporting your profession? If so, why not get involved with ICAEW Council or volunteer to join one of our committees and help shape the profession’s future.
