There are 113 livery companies of the City of London ranging from bodies with “traditional” trades through to those representing the diverse activities of the modern City.

They follow the tradition of trade guilds, created to draw on the experiences and knowledge of professionals to support the City. In 2026, this means supporting its position as a world leader in financial, professional, and business services, and more broadly supporting the entire UK.

The Chartered Accountants Company

ICAEW is affiliated with the Worshipful Company of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (WCCAEW), also known as the “Chartered Accountants Company”.

It was one of the first of the “modern” livery companies, founded in 1977, and it works closely with a group of livery companies known as the Financial Services Group, which includes representation from the legal profession, information technology, banking, entrepreneurs and tax advisers.

Members of livery companies have a role in the governance of the City of London, formally electing the Lord Mayor, Sheriffs, and other City offices, but also have an important philanthropic role.

As well as supporting the City, the Chartered Accountants Company supports ICAEW in the delivery of its objectives and enhance the reputation of the profession.

Join the company, support the community

ICAEW members – regardless of their location and experience – can join the Company and join a fraternity that share a commitment to accountants working in the public interest and contributing to society.

The Company has a programme of formal dinners, as well as informal visits to places of interest, charitable work and support for military affiliates.

Livery companies have associated charities. The Chartered Accountants Livery Charity supports many causes introduced by members, making a real difference to the work of smaller charities.

In 2024, the charity provided grants totalling £189,500 to 46 different causes, including donations to Life Cycle’s Youth Project, which supported bike skills sessions for children in Bristol, and to the Weldmar Hospicecare, which provides end of life care in Dorset.

It is also traditional for livery companies to support the military, and through the affiliates civilians and military personnel come together.

Vince O’Brien, Master of the Company, encourages ICAEW members to join the Company. He says: “Livery companies have evolved, as has the City of London, to remain relevant to society and the economy.

“The partnership between ICAEW and the Company is strong and committed to supporting our share common value of promoting the public interest and trust in our profession.”