The Agenda

In our fast-changing world, the only certainty seems yet more uncertainty. Are you geared up for a career and life of change? Is your mindset ready for the future of bookkeeping? Allister Frost, a former Microsoft leader and business transformation expert, will share his thoughts on the ever-accelerating pace of change racing towards you and the people you support, and how you can leverage this to realise your full potential. You’ll discover your technology-beating superpowers of curiosity, creativity, and collaboration, and leave ready to create the bright future you deserve. 

As the person responsible for delivering MTD for Income Tax mandation in April 2026, Craig is perfectly placed to update bookkeepers on the progress of programme. Craig will cover an overview of the MTD testing period, its benefits and explain for Bookkeepers to get involved. The talk will also draw attention to what bookkeepers can do to prepare for the new developments that will impact 1.7 million businesses.

We’re in a world that’s full of change. As we navigate a society that’s becoming increasingly fuelled by more data, more insights, more technological change, more of everything, bookkeepers are more important than ever. Some aspects of how you are bookkeeping will change, but one thing that won’t change is the industry’s role as the most trusted partner to small businesses. In this keynote, Kate Hayward, UK Country Manager at Xero, will talk about the macroeconomic environment, the role that bookkeepers will play amongst all this change, and the key areas small businesses need the industry’s support.

Join experienced accountant and speaker Bev Flanagan as she shares five proven, different actionable and quick strategies that will deliver instant wins in your bookkeeping practice. These strategies are designed to boost your sales, increase the money in your business bank account, and enhance your overall profitability.   

Bookkeepers remain essential in a world of uncertainty, but our methods must evolve as new technology arrives. Join ICB Bookkeeper Kate Powell as she explores how defining services and creating a structured process for delivery will elevate your client service and future-proof your practice. 

Attend this insightful session as one of the most recognisable faces in the industry walks you through the skills bookkeepers need to develop to survive – and thrive – in the future.   

With informed forecasts reflecting the changes and opportunities presented by changing tech, business operations and ways of working, Mark Lee will introduce you to a bookkeeper, Elinor, and help you take control of your own future. 

The tax headlines for bookkeepers - and the small print you might have missed.  

Some reflections on the Budget, MTD and some other things you really need to know 

Ready to take your bookkeeping practice to the next level? Join FreeAgent’s Gem Malek to discover practical steps to future-proof your business for long-term growth and success. We’ll also cover:  

• tips to develop your practice strategy and vision  

• how to shift your mindset from day-to-day tasks to the bigger picture 

• how to make the most of your tech vendor relationships, including resources available to you 

As UK Director of Product Management for Intuit QuickBooks, Nick is dedicated to helping small businesses and accounting professionals embrace digital to solve their financial problems.

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• Emma Fox 

• Vip Patel FICB PM.Dip 

• Helen Bower FICB PM.Dip 

• Lara Manton MICB 

This panel of experts will explore three key themes of the future of bookkeeping including 

• Creating a team to deliver excellent client service and keep your clients loyal 

• Managing a tech stack to create the most efficient business possible 

• Preparing your practice for sale and finding the right buyer for you. 

Dive into the evolving world of payroll and discover how it can transform your bookkeeping practice. This session unpacks the complexities of payroll regulations and highlights why offering payroll services can set you apart. Whether you're already navigating payroll or considering it, learn how it strengthens client relationships and boosts your business's appeal. Stay ahead with insights on cloud-based solutions and future payroll trends. Join us for a practical discussion tailored to empower bookkeepers, positioning you as a vital partner in your clients' success stories. Embrace change and future-proof your services today. 

ICB favourite Chris will explore how technology is transforming, yet not fully changing, the profession. Reflect on past predictions, assess the present, and explore AI’s future impact. While AI can revolutionise bookkeeping and compliance, tax changes like MTD will still demand time and resources. Most importantly, personal relationships and human insight will continue to be valued over technology in building trust and delivering personalised client service.