ICAEW & CIPFA: What Trainees Need to Know About the Potential Merger
ICAEW and CIPFA have just taken a big step towards a potential merger—something that could bring more opportunities and support to accountancy professionals (yes, including trainees like you).
The two bodies have signed a “Heads of Terms” agreement. This isn’t the merger itself, but it sets the direction for exploring one seriously. The goal? To make both institutes stronger together, deliver better services to members, and increase the profession’s impact across the public and private sectors.
What could this mean for you?
If it goes ahead:
CIPFA would join the ICAEW group but keep its own name, identity, and independence.
There’ll be a bigger focus on shared member benefits, like easier dual membership and more joint initiatives.
The profession’s voice in the UK and globally could get a serious boost.
This builds on work already happening—like CIPFA staff moving into ICAEW’s London HQ, and both CEOs becoming members of each other’s bodies. It's all about working more closely and creating more value for members at every career stage.
So what’s next?
A full proposal is being worked on, but nothing’s final yet. Members and regulators will have the final say.
