Welcome to this edition of Accountancy Ireland, and a warm welcome to our new Council members and Officer Group following the AGM in May, and my thanks to those Council members whose terms have finished.
I would like to congratulate Pamela McCreedy on a very successful term as President and wish Joan Curry and the new Officer Group the very best for their year ahead. They take over at a time characterised by change and flux, but a continuity in how we as a profession approach change.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how we all work. Through member research, education and professional development, we continue to equip members and students to embrace AI and use it to their benefit.
Our recently published position paper An Empowered Profession: AI and the Future of Accountancy; the ongoing project to update our education syllabus which incorporates AI; the creation of our online AI knowledge hub; and the introduction of new specialist diplomas and certificates are just some examples of our work in this area.
And we are committed to continuing to develop supports in response to our members’ and students’ needs. As AI becomes more prevalent, it is essential that judgement is applied to its output. No technology or system is without risk, and oversight is vital. Chartered Accountants can interrogate the outputs and bring the Trusted Business Leadership our members are respected and renowned for.
They can harness the efficiencies AI offers while applying wisdom to the information. It is in this guidance role that I am confident we will see members becoming indispensable. In short, roles may change but the core skill set of Chartered Accountants will be ever more necessary.
Being adaptable to new ways of working and new technologies will also be essential to how this Institute attracts new students and new members.
We need to ensure those who are curious about training to be a Chartered Accountant, whether they are a career changer, school leaver or recent graduate, understand the incredible potential this career offers. This Institute is built on the strength of its members and the strength of the networks they form. From committees to networking groups, and from overseas chapters to regional District Societies, we are here to support you.
Now more than ever I encourage members to nurture their networks, to stay connected and keep informed, and avail of all the supports we offer.
Enjoy the magazine.
