Pat Maunsell
Director of Education, Accounting Technicians Ireland
To prepare future accounting technician professionals for industry, bridging academia and practical industry demands is crucial.
Accounting Technicians Ireland (ATI), a specialist in accounting technician education and training in Ireland, is responding to the growing demands for new and emerging skills in the accounting and finance sector.
The accounting technician professional
The accounting technician professional qualification has been available for the last 40 years on the island of Ireland and serves as a fundamental pathway for individuals embarking on careers as accounting technicians. The programme has evolved, and we are conducting another review to ensure the sustained relevance and efficacy of the qualification, involving extensive engagement with all our key stakeholders.
Introduction of a certified accounting technologist
ATI are also set to launch a new Certified Accounting Technologist profession this month. The underpinning qualification is a BSc. Hons in Accounting Technology, validated separately by Technological University Shannon in the south and Open University in Ireland in the north. This new role provides a natural progression pathway for accounting technicians and those working in finance-related roles who wish to advance.
The Certified Accounting Technologist supports sustainable value creation by optimising financial, social and environmental outcomes, preparing businesses for a more sustainable economic model.
The work of the certified accounting technologist
The role typically works at the intersection of modern finance, information systems, and organisational governance. The Certified Accounting Technologist takes responsibility for: financial and sustainability reporting; data management and analysis; the development of insights in support of the breadth of organisational governance for which executives are accountable and related statutory compliance; decision-support and advice in relation to matters such as data and information ecosystems; sustainability reporting and environmental, social and governance (ESG).
Disruptive innovation
The traditional competencies of the accounting professional are changing to meet modern business requirements, with new skill sets required. In addition to accounting, taxation and finance capabilities, there are increasing expectations in the business environment.
This includes data management and analytics, information systems optimisation and the consequences of the sustainability (ESG) agenda. They are also expected to have sufficient business acumen to advise on executive decision-making and to act effectively as a ‘business partner.’ The Certified Accounting Technologist complements and enhances the work of the modern finance team.
Shaping the future of accounting
To advance accounting education effectively, professional education must continue to align with industry demands, shaping versatile professionals ready for this dynamic field. ATI’s thorough and holistic approach will ensure that the next generation of accounting specialists are knowledgeable, adaptable and prepared for future challenges.
