Accounting Skills, Learning and Leadership in 2025

AI, automation, and digital finance tools are reshaping the way Accountancy and Tax practices operate, continuing to redefine what it means to be an accountant and a trusted advisor. Staying up to date is not just a requirement for CPD; it is the foundation to achieve long-term relevance and a strong leadership skill set in an evolving landscape.

Why Ongoing Development Matters

For senior professionals in practice, continuous development is about remaining both credible and influential in an evolving advisory market. Clients no longer need just technical compliance; they want critical thinking, strategic insight, commercial and digital acumen and confident, agile leadership.

Investing in your professional development brings tangible rewards:

• Stronger client relationships – Your ability to advise proactively grows with your enhanced knowledge and perspective.
• Increased earning potential – Broadening your expertise supports your progression into high-impact roles.
• Long-term security and influence – Whether aiming for Partnership or guiding your firm through change, professional growth strengthens your credibility and gives you the edge to lead with authority and confidence.

Skills in Demand

Here are key areas where we see skills gaps emerging – and how you can stay ahead.

Data Analysis and AI Integration

In Audit and Advisory, professionals are using data analytics to identify anomalies, evaluate controls, and generate commercial insights. AI is becoming central to audit automation and strategic forecasting, yet a significant upskilling gap remains.

ICAEW research shows that over 40% of accountancy professionals will need to “reskill” or “upskill”  in AI to remain relevant.

Explore further learning:

ICAEW courses covering data and technology
CIMA Data and Analytics e-learning

Cybersecurity Awareness

In Audit, Compliance and Risk Assurance, cybersecurity is now a core part of client evaluations. With more firms adopting digital-first models, senior professionals must understand cyber risk, internal control effectiveness, and data protection standards.

Many firms lack staff with formal cybersecurity training, which can impact assurance and compliance outcomes.

Explore further learning:

ICAEW Cyber Security Resources
Cybersecurity Advisory Services Certificate

Financial Technology (FinTech)

For senior professionals, FinTech is not just about software use – it is about leading conversations on systems strategy. Whether advising clients on ERP integration, automating compliance workflows or evaluating reporting outputs, FinTech expertise drives efficiency, insight, and value.

Explore further learning:

ICAEW Finance in a Digital World Programme
AAT Digital Transformation Strategy
ACCA Digital transformation for accountants

Tax Strategy and Digital Advisory

Tax teams are shifting from just compliance to a more consultancy-led offering. At a senior level, professionals are expected to combine their deep technical knowledge with digital agility and commercial acumen.

Focus areas include:

• Complex compliance (e.g. capital allowances, NIC changes, non-domicile rules)
• Digitalisation of tax workflows and automation leadership
• Strategic planning for SME and OMB clients
• Risk mitigation and HMRC enquiry support

There is a rising demand for senior tax professionals with both advisory capabilities and technological confidence.

Explore further learning:

ICAEW CPD Tax Course Catalogue
CIOT Diploma in Tax Technology

Leadership and Relationship Management

In Tax, Audit, and Business Services, the ability to manage people and client expectations is just as important as technical ability. As you progress, soft skills such as influencing, mentoring, and conflict resolution play a critical role in building high-performing teams and long-term client trust.

Explore further learning:

CIMA People, Leadership and Advancement
ICAEW Soft Skills Development Programmes
ICAEW Leadership Development Programmes
ACAS Leadership and People Management Events in the Southeast

Sustainability and ESG Reporting

Professionals in Audit and Advisory are increasingly supporting clients with ESG reporting and sustainability disclosures. Understanding key frameworks, including the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the IFRS Sustainability Standards, positions you to meet emerging client needs.

Explore further learning:

ICAEW CPD Courses in Sustainability
ACCA Certificate in Sustainability for Finance (Cert SF)
Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosure (TCFD)

Supporting Career Development

As the accountancy profession continues to evolve, staying open to change and maintaining a commitment to development are critical. The right combination of technical expertise, adaptability, and soft skills will aid Accountancy and Tax professionals at all levels to meet the challenges ahead.

Recruitment consultancies, training providers, and professional bodies all have a role in supporting this process. At Fletcher George, we support Accounting and Tax professionals at various stages of their careers, helping them make informed decisions about training, career moves, and long-term planning.

Continuous learning is essential.

Whether you are reviewing your next career move or planning for partnership, a commitment to continuous development will allow you to take full advantage of exciting future opportunities and ensure you remain in demand in 2025 and beyond.