The International Association of Bookkeepers [IAB], a global membership organisation for the bookkeeping and accountancy professions, has announced a name change which has seen it become known as the Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers.
The name change came into effect yesterday (September 1), ahead of the IAB's 50th anniversary in 2023.
The rebrand reflects a growing shift in the IAB's membership base, with higher proportions of members undertaking accountancy work with every passing year.
The breadth and depth of the IAB's offer has also grown in line with its membership over recent years. In addition to developing leading-edge content to maintain the highest standards of compliance, the IAB provides support and guidance to its members from the outset of their professional journey through to the end of their career.
The IAB is also a widely respected awarding body for those entering the accounting and bookkeeping professions. It will continue to invest in qualification development spanning a range of skillsets, in line with the evolving demands of the financial services industry.
The IAB has recently won plaudits for its pioneering work in relation to anti-money laundering legislation, as well as wider lobbying efforts on behalf of the industry.
Janet Jack, CEO of the Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers, said: “The IAB’s duty is to drive and uphold the highest standards of accountancy and bookkeeping through qualifications and the ongoing support we provide to our thousands of members. This name change – and specifically, the decision to establish ourselves as an ‘Institute’ – reflects the heritage of our organisation, as well as the exceptional value we deliver on behalf of our membership base.”
Speaking on The Leaders Council Podcast about the name change, the Institute's chief operating officer Sarah Palmer commented: “We're coming up to our 50th year and we felt that the membership based has changed over time. We're attracting a lot more accountants and more bookkeeping practitioners are becoming professional. We felt the name change better reflected who we are and what we offer and is more representative of what we do. It's a step forward into our 50th year and hopefully another 50 years of success.”
IAB membership offers sole trader members, those in practice and employed, realistic direction in navigating their professional journey. The organisation will continue to enhance its offering in the areas of technology, resource, and qualifications over the years ahead.
The extended interview on The Leaders Council Podcast with the Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers' chief operating officer Sarah Palmer can be accessed below.
