What’s on the agenda? Highlights from Members Board March 2025

The March Members Board meeting was packed with strategic updates, innovative ideas, and thoughtful discussions aimed at enhancing the value and experience for ICAS members.

The role of the Board is to provide strategic direction, guidance, oversight and challenge to the work we undertake to support and engage our members and students.

The board last met on Wednesday 26 March to discuss a packed agenda of topics. Here are some highlights:

Championing EDI, Sustainability and AI

The meeting opened with compelling updates on the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Committee, which is progressing through the second year of its transformative three-year strategy. ICAS was awarded Bronze Investors in Diversity accreditation in 2024, with the aim being to achieve Silver in 2025.  

In the Sustainability Committee update, David Wilson CA encouraged participation in the upcoming Sustainability Summit on 23 April, while Iain McMichael CA from the AI Working Group shared insights on the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and its potential to reshape the profession. A focus for the Working Group is how to best support members and Iain shared information about the ICAS AI hub which recently launched.

Risk management and member insights

Board members reviewed ICAS’ approach to risk management for member engagement activity, ensuring a comprehensive oversight of operational and strategic risks. Meanwhile, an update on the Moments that Matter research revealed key insights into member satisfaction, particularly among early career and industry members, highlighting areas for improvement in networking and career development support.

Exciting advances in communication and engagement

Significant progress has been made in communications, including the launch of a revamped website featuring over 1,800 streamlined pages. A new marketing platform is also on the horizon, aiming to deliver a deeper understanding of member engagement and a more personalised experience. This work is part of the three-year Member Engagement and Value strategy, currently at the end of its first year. The Board has oversight of the strategy, which is progressing well, with improved member satisfaction.

Innovative tools and industry member focus

A career mapping tool tailored for Chartered Accountants, was demonstrated, showcasing its potential to provide valuable industry data. Additionally, the Board explored strategies to improve satisfaction among Members in Industry, with ideas ranging from short-form webinars and podcasts to targeted networking opportunities by career stage.

ICAS remains committed to driving value for its members through innovation, inclusivity, and strategic foresight. Stay tuned for further developments as the next Board meeting approaches on 4 June.