On Thursday 10th of July 2025, Chartered Accountants Worldwide (CAW) welcomed representatives from 11 member institutes to the inaugural CAW Connects overseas representatives’ meeting, held at the historic Chartered Accountants’ Hall in London and hosted by ICAEW.
This was the first time overseas representatives had convened in person under the CAW Connects umbrella, creating a unique opportunity to exchange insights, strengthen connections, and align on shared goals. The session highlighted the growing momentum behind CAW’s strategic themes and offered a valuable space to identify opportunities for deeper collaboration.
The agenda included an overview of Chartered Accountants Worldwide’s 2025/2026 business plan, as well as an introduction to the brand framework, followed by an open discussion on the top three priorities of each institute. Several common threads emerged:
- Attracting future talent: Institutes are focused on raising awareness of the Chartered Accountancy profession among younger generations, parents, and career influencers. Campaigns range from cinema ads to bursary schemes.
- Modernising education: Many institutes have refreshed their qualifications to embed topics like AI, tech, and sustainability, while offering more personalised learning pathways.
- Member value: The goal of being a “partner for life” is guiding work on member engagement and international support.
- Growth and inclusion: Institutes are expanding access to the profession via new designations, public sector routes, and international service hubs, such as ISCA’s Shanghai centre.
- Technology and AI: There was strong alignment around the need to support members—particularly SMEs—in navigating AI, with calls for closer collaboration with tech providers.
- Promoting the Chartered Accountancy brand: Many institutes are investing in brand identity and public trust, with recent rebrands by Chartered Accountants Ireland and ICAS focusing on ethical leadership.
One theme resonated above all was the Chartered Accountancy premium. Attendees reflected on the distinct value and global recognition of the Chartered Accountancy designation—its reputation for trust, integrity, and high professional standards. Many agreed there’s a strong opportunity to communicate this premium more consistently across markets, particularly in conversations with employers, students, and career influencers. Looking ahead, Chartered Accountants Worldwide is exploring the possibility of a follow-up session in Q4 2025 to continue the conversation and identify practical areas for joint activity.
