PublicEye
Accounting Excellence Awards 2024 highlight range of AAT members’ achievements
AAT members were well represented among nominees
The Accounting Excellence Awards, which took place on 8 October at the Camden Roundhouse, highlight the most ambitious firms, teams and individuals in accounting and finance, so it’s no surprise that AAT members were nominated across 14 categories.
The awards recognise accountants who have demonstrated excellence in their work, pushed the boundaries of innovation and made remarkable contributions to the accounting profession.
“The strong representation of AAT members across such a diverse range of categories in this year’s shortlist is truly remarkable,” said AAT CEO Sarah Beale. “Although that should come as no surprise, given our community! From client transformation to payroll innovation, our members are excelling in every facet of the accounting profession.”
Breadth of recognition
“The sheer breadth of recognition in this year’s Accounting Excellence Awards showcases the exceptional talent within AAT – but it also reflects our inclusive professional community,” Beale added. “We’re incredibly proud of all the finalists and the positive impact they’re making across the industry every day.”
Ultimately, two AAT members won on the night. Sam Nicholson of Nicholson & Co Accountancy took Progressive Payroll Team of the Year, while Small Firm of the Year (London and the South East) went to Max McHugh and Ocelot Accounting.
From client transformation to payroll innovation, our members are excelling in every facet of the accounting profession.
Image: iStock
Fight against late payments continues under new government
AAT’s campaign for tighter and more stringent rules around late payments continues, despite the new government’s pledge to tackle the problem.
The government has promised to consult on new laws designed to hold larger firms to account over complying with payment terms. While AAT welcomes the move, it has long campaigned for the Prompt Payment Code to be made compulsory and the terms halved.
Among the government proposals are requirements for all large businesses to include payment reporting in their annual reports, as well as taking enforcement action against businesses that engage in late payment and rewarding businesses which demonstrate that they meet good payment standards.
“Every quarter, 52% of small firms in the UK suffer from late payments, costing SMEs £22,000 a year on average and contributing to 50,000 business closures annually,” said Jonathan Gorvin, executive director of strategy and compliance at AAT. “It’s a very real problem and devastates the growth and survival of thousands of small businesses. We’ve long been calling for large businesses to be held accountable for paying their suppliers on time.
“Late payments are just one of many issues facing small businesses that the government needs to strengthen their stance on. For example, SMEs should not be further burdened by a risk of debanking – a practice that the Commons Treasury Committee reported has increased by 44% between 2022/23 and 2023/24.”
AAT showcases value of accounting technicians at Malaysia conference
Accounting technicians will play an increasingly important role as countries look to address the significant and growing shortage of trained and qualified accountants and finance professionals being felt globally.
That was the message as AAT showcased the value of accounting technicians at the National Human Capital Conference and Exhibition (NHCCE) in Kuala Lumpur between 30 September and 2 October. AAT delegates met with employers across the accounting and finance sector, training providers and prospective students to support the growth of AAT qualifications in Malaysia.
This was the first time AAT has attended the event, demonstrating the body’s increasing presence in Malaysia’s skills and training sector. The country has one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economies and was among the top 20 in Asia last quarter.
AAT attended the National Human Capital Conference and Exhibition in Kuala Lumpur.
Image: iStock
AAT CEO Sarah Beale and international development lead Tim Dawkins will travel to the Philippines at the end of November as AAT expands its growing relationships and recognition in Southeast Asia.
