CEO Welcome: Such an exciting year!

On the public policy front, our teams, led by Ellen Milner and Emma Rawson, have been actively engaged in making representations on the Finance Bill. Drawing on the expertise and experience of our members, we seek to influence legislation so that it is clear, workable and fair. Constructive engagement with government and HMRC remains central to our role, and we are grateful to the members who contribute their time and technical insight to this vital work.

The early part of the year offers many opportunities to champion our profession. Apprenticeship Week (9 to 13 February) highlights vocational routes into tax and the high-quality training and progression opportunities available across the sector. Tax apprentices play an increasingly vital role in practices throughout the UK, and we remain committed to supporting employers and learners through guidance and qualifications. Further information will be available on our websites.

Careers Week (2 to 6 March) allows us to showcase the diversity of careers in tax. Whether a school leaver, graduate or career changer, tax offers intellectually rewarding work with real societal impact. Our aim is to ensure the profession is seen as inclusive and attractive to people from all backgrounds. During the week, many of our technical officers will visit schools and colleges, and attend careers fairs. Members interested in helping can contact our schools and careers lead, Steven Pinhey, at [email protected].

We are proud to introduce a new ‘Tax Awareness Week’ (9 to 13 March), which will help to educate the public about tax, while demonstrating to policymakers the value of professional tax advice. Trusted, ethical advice is more important than ever, and our members are central to the effective operation of the tax system. Events will include a webinar with all Heads of Tax from the Big Six. Please share our social media postings during the week to help raise awareness of this event.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) remains a core requirement for all our members. At the next free quarterly webinar for ATT members on 26 February, Emma Rawson and Steven Pinhey will provide an update on penalties. These webinars deliver high-quality, engaging technical content aligned with the evolving needs of the profession. CIOT members wishing to access ATT’s free quarterly webinars and other resources may wish to consider joint ATT/CIOT membership. Details are at: tinyurl.com/msbd3n6e

The ATT Fellows’ Webinar on 22 April will provide an opportunity to engage with our most experienced members, followed by the CIOT Spring Conference on 29 and 30 April – which promises to be one of the highlights of the year. The conference will bring together leading voices from across the profession to explore key technical, policy and professional issues shaping the future of tax.

We are also looking forward to the CIOT Admissions Ceremony on 16 April, which celebrates the achievements of those who have reached the significant professional milestone of becoming a CTA. It is always a pleasure to welcome new members formally and to recognise the dedication behind this achievement.

As always, thank you for your continued support, professionalism and engagement. Whether through our events, consultations or supporting the next generation of tax professionals, your involvement strengthens both our organisations and the wider profession.