IFA unveils senior leadership changes and new appointment

The Institute of Financial Accountants (IFA) has announced changes to its senior management team, as well as a new appointment, as it continues to strengthen its services.Kyle Baker-Kemp joins as the new professional development and advocacy manager, bringing 13 years of “extensive” industry experience. Prior to his new role, he joined ICAEW in 2018 as member programme executive before being promoted to event programme manager. He has also worked with the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment and the Chartered Institute of Fundraising in various executive positions, overseeing delivery of annual educational events, contributing towards development strategies and ensuring financial professionals maintained high-level CPD competency. His appointment comes amid a series of promotions at the IFA, designed to “enhance the leadership team and further demonstrate its commitment to supporting SMEs and SMPs through sustained growth and innovation”. Jonathan Barber, the former business development and membership director, becomes executive director – UK for the IFA, while John Edwards, the IFA’s CEO since 2015, moves to group executive – International. Elsewhere, Tim Pinkney is promoted to director of professional standards, moving from his previous role of head of practice standards. Barber said: “We couldn’t be happier to welcome Kyle to the team and we look forward to supporting him in assisting and growing our member community, while ensuring we continue delivering the best service possible to our members and maintaining our small business focus. “His experience aligns perfectly with the IFA’s commitment to the delivery of quality continuing professional development and education pathways, ensuring members maintain currency of knowledge and relevance in an ever-changing and competitive market.” He added: “The restructuring of the IFA’s Senior Management Team serves to strengthen our offering and better meet member needs. John has been at the IFA as CEO for almost a decade, and therefore is suitably positioned to move to our international division, driving and influencing the direction of accounting and financial services globally.” Edwards said: “I would like to congratulate Jonathan on his new promotion, and am looking forward to continuing working together to shape the strategy and future management of the IFA. I am also delighted to continue to have the input of Tim on the Senior Management Team, ensuring our members conduct themselves and their professional activities at the highest standards.”