The Council of the Association of International Accountants (AIA) is charged with establishing the strategy for the AIA and I truly feel that this year we have made some fantastic progress across key areas of marketing, recruitment and recognition. 

Always of the opinion that "if it's worth doing, it's worth doing well", I was delighted that after two years of hard work, AND having undergone one of the most rigorous tests of both our procedures and Qualification, Ofqual have recognised the AIA as an Awarding Body and the AIA qualification at levels 5, 6 and 7 of the Qualifications and Credit Framework; level 7 being comparable to a Master's Degree. This additional and independent recognition of the AIA qualification means members, employers, businesses, individuals and other educational institutes can not only be reassured by the quality of the AIA's structures, governance and policies, but also understand where the AIA's professional qualification is pitched against other qualifications.

Whilst Ofqual's recognition relates to the AIA's UK operations, it is nevertheless significant for all AIA members as recognition of the professional qualification in any jurisdiction only serves to reinforce the high standards of education and learning that AIA offers. We are in the process of corresponding with all our partners in the UK and overseas to ensure that they are up-to-date about this additional recognition through Ofqual and have started actively recruiting onto the QCF route.

2011 also saw the rebirth of the AIA brand and logo, a move that has been met with great positivity from members and the wider profession. As part of the redesign, the AIA incorporated the crest into the

logo and revamped it into a modern and progressive design, showcasing the best of our past with our ambition for the future. The magazine and website, which continue to develop to meet the needs of our students and members, were updated and are a fantastic resource for news, technical updates, discussion, advice and member collaboration.

The AIA's commitment to ensuring continued growth, was aided by the rebrand and new recognition, but also by a targeted approach to recruitment. The AIA has always instigated a strong working relationship with partners in the UK and overseas, and the last year has seen new partnerships develop in both existing and new markets, a move that I am confident will allow the AIA and its membership to expand.

As we look to the future there is still a lot we want to achieve and the Council continues to strive to develop strategies that will ensure our future is bright and our members are given every opportunity to thrive in their chosen accountancy career.

Regards

Andrew Lamb
President