Today’s news in brief – 19/3/2024
Azets has promoted six professionals in Yorkshire, including Steve Holmes to tax partner and Daisy Marsden to audit director in Leeds. These promotions are part of Azets’ nationwide mid-year promotions, totaling 119, with 11 new partners. Russell Turner, regional MD, praises the expertise of the promoted individuals, emphasising their role in enhancing client services and supporting ambitious businesses in Yorkshire.
Accounting and finance professionals rank highest in workplace happiness, scoring 72 on the Career Happiness Index. The report by The Futures Group attributes this to strong cultural values and robust career development opportunities in the sector. Despite economic challenges, individuals are reassessing early retirement plans, contributing to a trend termed “Great Unretirement.” Industry experts emphasise the importance of creating fulfilling work environments and anticipate continued satisfaction, especially with advancements like AI enhancing job productivity.
RSM UK has appointed Dan Thompson as its new people partner to lead the national talent team. With over 20 years of HR experience, Thompson aims to strengthen recruitment, develop employees, and support the firm’s digital future. His strategic hire aligns with RSM’s dynamic and people-centric culture, offering opportunities for impactful contributions. CEO Rob Donaldson highlights Thompson’s diverse expertise and anticipates his role in expanding and enhancing the firm’s people offering.
The FCA has unveiled its business plan for 2024-25, focusing on consumer protection, UK competitiveness, and data-led regulation. Key priorities include testing firms’ compliance with the Consumer Duty, promoting long-term financial wellbeing, and enhancing UK wholesale markets. The FCA aims to automate analytics tools for faster response to consumer harms and ensure safe deployment of artificial intelligence. CEO Nikhil Rathi underscores the regulator’s progress in setting higher standards, protecting consumers, and supporting the financial sector’s role in economic growth.
