Whether it be the Law Society, the accountancy profession or Royal Colleges of Medicine each of our various professions is lead by a governing Council. Whilst most of these Council posts comprise of volunteer members, depending on the organisations such appointments can be quite influential, writes David Little, a Partner in the Corporate and Commercial department at solicitors Bishop & Sewell.
So I was particularly interested to read here that the AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) has called on its members to stand for election to the AAT Council. The AAT faces a similar challenge to many professional associations. Committed trustees are hard to find.
AAT said it is searching for a diverse range of people from its membership to bring their insights and experiences, and “constructively challenge” or contribute ideas. Those successful in being elected to the Council will have the opportunity to help the organisation in its ambition to develop and transform under the leadership of new chief executive, Sarah Beale.
AAT CEO, Sarah Beale, says: “We are looking for AAT members who believe in the organisation and are ready to get even more involved.
“AAT is an organisation that changes lives and has a huge impact socially and in education. We are looking for people to be custodians of that and ensure we continue to go from strength to strength.”
AAT added that no experience as a trustee is required to join the Council and those elected will be “fully supported” through their journey.
Andy Murray, Finance Executive at Lindenmeyr International, became the youngest ever member of AAT Council when he joined in 2020 at the age of 27.
Murray said: “Being on Council is like free CPD. You learn about governance, pensions, all sorts. I’m exposed to top-level conversations around corporate governance and best practice which many professionals my age rarely get to be involved in. There are also networking opportunities as you’re in direct contact with the AAT executive team and the CEO.”
As the saying goes, give a little, get a lot.
David Little is a Partner in Bishop and Sewell’s Corporate & Commercial team. Should you require any further advice or assistance, please contact him quoting reference CB323 on +44 (0)20 7079 4143 or email: [email protected]
About Bishop & Sewell LLP
Bishop & Sewell is a long-established, full service Central London law firm – with an international reach – specialising in Personal, Property and Commercial legal matters. To learn more, visit www.bishopandsewell.co.uk
