President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Dr Hilary Lindsay FCA has said: ‘It has been very rewarding to see the key roles our members play in the Isle of Man economy and to hear our members’ enthusiasm to respond to any future challenges.’
Her comments came following her visit to a number of firms in the Island as well as speaking at the Isle of Man Society of Chartered Accountants’ dinner.
Dr Lindsay chose for her theme flexible working as a positive career choice. Speaker of the House of Keys Juan Watterson SHK explained: ‘During her time in the Island Hilary sought local members’ views on how firms could be more inclusive by being open to flexible working arrangements. She also met with student members, so gained valuable insight from both current and future ICAEW members.
‘A recurring theme in her visit – and a topic she has been promoting throughout her year as president – was the importance for businesses to embrace changes in working practices. She emphasised that with firms facing mounting challenges - not least the impact of Brexit - adaptability and flexibility are key.'
Echoing Mr Watterson’s thoughts, the Isle of Man Society of Chartered Accountants chairman Nick Quayle said: ‘We were delighted that Hilary was able visit the Island and attend our annual dinner. The opportunity for members to engage directly with the president of the ICAEW in respect of the work we do locally is extremely valuable. Flexible working is currently an area of focus for many firms and businesses locally and therefore the insights Hilary shared were particularly relevant and timely.’
Dr Lindsay’s visit also provided an opportunity for Mr Watterson, a chartered accountant by profession, to host a tour of Tynwald joined by fellow chartered accountants Lawrie Hooper MHK and Tim Baker MHK. Mr Watterson said: ‘It was a great pleasure to show Hilary around Tynwald and explain how chartered accountants are having a positive effect in our small, ancient but dynamic parliament.’
Since Dr Lindsay’s visit Mr Watterson has been admitted to the council of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).
The council is the ICAEW’s 90-member governing body, responsible for oversight of the institute’s activities and agreeing strategy and budget.
Mr Watterson, who was nominated by Dr Lindsay in her role as ICAEW president, said: ‘I was honoured to receive her presidential nomination to be co-opted to the ICAEW’s governing council. This will provide an opportunity for the Island’s voice to be heard at the heart of the financial world in London. The Island enjoys a wealth of positive links with the City and, as an ICAEW council member, I am looking forward to playing an active part in strengthening those links.’
Photo - Speaker of the House of Keys Juan Watterson SHK is pictured with ICAEW president Dr Hilary Lindsay and Lawrie Hooper MHK. Photo Paul Dougherty, Tynwald Seneschal.
