Obituary: Richard Todd

We mourn the loss of Richard Todd, former President of the ATT, with both sadness and genuine admiration. Richard’s steadfast commitment to the ATT and the broader tax community has created a legacy that will be valued long into the future.

Richard served the Association for over 20 years, sitting on several of its committees, where we were lucky enough to get to know him. He started his journey as Branch Secretary for the Northern Ireland Branch and was appointed Chair a year later. He joined the Member Steering Group, Professional Standards Committee and, in 2013, the Council, where he became President in 2021.

As President, he led with integrity, wisdom and an unwavering commitment to the profession. He believed in raising standards, supporting colleagues and strengthening the community he cared so deeply about. His leadership was steady and thoughtful, always delivered with fairness and humility. Under his stewardship, the ATT’s commitment to education and ethical practice was continuously emphasised, reinforcing its reputation as a leading authority and resource for taxation professionals.

Richard was an advocate for lifelong learning, ensuring members had access to the resources needed to keep pace with tax legislation and best practice. He was instrumental in supporting the quality and breadth of the ATT’s educational activities and was still serving on the CPD working party at the time of his death.

Richard’s leadership style was marked by integrity, warmth and a collaborative spirit. He was never one to seek the spotlight; instead, he focused on building consensus and nurturing the talents of those around him. His colleagues recall his generosity with time and advice, his calm demeanour and his determination to see the ATT flourish as a respected professional body.

Richard was not only a respected leader and dedicated professional, but also a proud Irishman whose warmth and wit left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His passing leaves a profound void in the profession and in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be remembered not only for his dedication and service, but for his kindness, laughter and the friendships he nurtured along the way.

Our thoughts are with Andrea his loving wife, his children and his wider family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time. May he rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire us all.