AAT inaugural board chair announced

It has today been announced that Sir Stephen Hillier has been appointed as the inaugural Board Chair for AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians).

This marks a significant step forward in realising AAT’s new governing structure, which has remained largely unchanged for nearly a decade. The new structure, which will launch on 1 April 2025, ensures AAT is future-ready and aligns with the enhanced standards set by the UK’s Charity Governance Code 2020, raising the bar for excellence in governance.

Stephen has been appointed to lead a new skills-based Trustee Board, for a three-year term. As AAT’s most senior decision-making body, the Trustee Board will have responsibility for governing the organisation and, in addition to the Chair, will comprise 11 non-executive directors (at least 20% of the Board will be AAT members).

Since his appointment as Chair of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in 2020, Stephen has played a pivotal role in safeguarding aviation safety, security, and consumer interests. He also serves on the Board of the UK Atomic Energy Authority, and chairs the RAF Museum Board of Trustees - a fitting tribute to his distinguished military career, which culminated in his appointment as Chief of the Air Staff in the Royal Air Force. A keen supporter of businesses, communities, and social mobility, Stephen is dedicated to fostering collaboration, amplifying diverse voices, and championing inclusivity.

Michael Steed, President of AAT, says: “As one of the strongest voices for responsible business in accountancy and finance, AAT always champions best practice - not just within the profession, but also within our own organisation. 

“Our governing structure has been in place for many years, during which time both AAT and the profession have significantly evolved. Since Sarah Beale’s appointment as CEO over three years ago, she has led the development of an ambitious 2030 strategy, ensuring AAT remains relevant and future ready. 

“As a proudly diverse accountancy membership body, we have a responsibility to our members and society to ensure our Trustee Board reflects a broad mix of skills, knowledge, and experience to strengthen our decision-making. 

“I am delighted to welcome Stephen as our newly appointed Board Chair and look forward to working together to drive AAT forward.”

Sir Stephen Hillier, newly appointed Chair of AAT’s Trustee Board, says: “It’s an honour to be appointed as the Chair of the inaugural Trustee Board for AAT at a pivotal time for the organisation. AAT has a strong history of supporting accounting professionals, driving up excellence, and supporting diversity and social mobility. I am committed to building on that legacy. 

“Under our new structure, my focus will be on ensuring strong governance, fostering innovation, and enhancing the support we provide to our members, students, and stakeholders. By working collaboratively with the Board, President, the new Members’ Advisory Council and with the executive team, we will navigate the evolving landscape of accounting, embracing opportunities for growth and social mobility and continuing to uphold the highest standards of professionalism. 

“I look forward to leading AAT into this exciting new chapter and ensuring that we remain a dynamic, forward-thinking organisation that empowers our members for the future.”

The new structure was agreed by the AAT Council in April 2024 and required significant changes to the Articles of Association and the scheme of delegation. AAT members voted ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to the proposed changes to the Articles of Association at the AGM in October 2024 – with 95% voting ‘yes’.

Alongside the new Chair and Trustee Board, a Members’ Advisory Council (MAC) is also being created. This new body will amplify the membership voice within AAT’s governance structure, ensuring our community stays at the very heart of AAT’s development. A MAC Appointee will also serve on the Board, linking governance and representation within the organisation.