Cat Devaney CA

Launching a new designation is not something ICAS does lightly. Since the institute’s foundation in 1854, it has only done so twice before.

So you can be sure this third designation, Accounting and Business Professional (ABP), is significant for that reason alone. More importantly, the introduction of the new qualification shows ICAS anticipating the evolving needs of employee and employer alike. The ABP has the rigour and assurance to meet the aspirations and requirements of both.

But what is the ABP? What are the benefits for learners and employers? And where does it sit in relation to the CA qualification?

“The catalyst for the ABP was the launch of the new syllabus and its flexible delivery model, which has enabled us to better respond to the needs of employers,” says ICAS Executive Director of Learning, Cat Devaney CA.

That response included the launch in 2025 of the ICAS Certificate in Accounting and Business (CAB), which covers all areas within the Knowledge level of the CA qualification, exempting anyone going on to do the CA from those five subjects.

“We thought if somebody is doing that certificate and also getting relevant on-the-job experience, there must be a way of recognising the two together, which is where the ABP comes in,” Cat adds.

Achieving the ABP, which is awarded after completing the CAB plus 12 months’ work experience, can be a destination in itself. It allows experienced professionals to improve or formalise their skills without the need to commit to the CA qualification. To give just one example, it would suit a member of a finance team who wants to enhance their skills but doesn’t need the full CA to do their role.

Once achieved, they can use the ABP designatory letters after their name and become an ICAS affiliate – which has benefits in itself that include tailored CPD, exclusive ICAS events, a suite of professional rewards and access to a network of business professionals across multiple sectors.

It can also be a useful entry to the profession for employers or employees not yet certain that chartered accountancy should be the ultimate goal. As Cat explains: “The ABP may serve as a stepping stone to becoming a fully qualified CA.”

Everything needs accounting

Much like the CA itself, the ABP is a qualification that can be earned at any stage of your professional career. As Cat explains, “You could be somebody who’s had a career in one area, and is now thinking, ‘What else would I like to do?’”

This is especially true now with the dawning of the age of AI. “We speak a lot about lifelong learning – and it has never been more relevant or important than right now,” she adds. “We know people don’t necessarily stay in the same role for years and years, and that technology is redefining certain roles.”

What it means for employers

The new designation should prove attractive for a wide range of employers, including those that already have trainee CAs, but may have other positions that don’t necessarily require the full qualification.

Benefits include:

Building a stronger, more capable finance function 
The qualification equips talent with the essential knowledge and skills your business needs, across reporting, tax, assurance, ethics, business law and more. 

Develop and retain early career talent
The ABP is a perfect fit for school leavers, graduates, early-career team members, career-changers and employees without a formal qualification.

Gain a flexible, online-first learning experience
Training is delivered through our award-winning Advantage learning platform, offering global access and allowing learners to progress at their own pace – ideal for those working part-time or with caring responsibilities.

Supported by the apprenticeship levy
The programme has also been designed to be eligible for Level 4 apprenticeship levy funding in England, which would support employers in making the qualification more accessible and cost-effective.

Seamless progression on to the CA qualification 
You can use the ABP as a talent pipeline into doing the CA.

What it means for learners

Benefits include:

A respected ICAS qualification 
The qualification gives you a recognised ICAS designation of ABP, offering global credibility and enhanced employability in sectors including practice and industry. 

Fast, flexible completion 
Depending on your prior work experience, the ABP can be completed in as little as four months. 

A robust blend of technical and professional skills
The ABP is made up of two core elements – structured learning and real-world experience.

Anyone taking this course will get a grounding in essential core knowledge:  
• Reporting and performance
• Taxation
• Assurance
• Business management and finance
• Business law

The combination of learning with workplace experience equips you with the ability to apply that knowledge in any organisation.

So what would a successful new designation look like for Cat and ICAS?

“We continually talk about the attractiveness of the profession, and we know there can be a certain perception of accountancy – it’s your debits, your credits, your tax – but it is much wider than that.

“Some people and employers think the CA isn’t for them. But if the ABP’s ‘business’ tag persuades them what we’re doing is perfectly suited for their needs, and the qualification gives that person a good foundation for their career, that’s one way of measuring success.

“The new ABP is a great retention and engagement tool for employers looking to nurture new and existing talent. It highlights our modernisation, our agility and flexibility. We are broadening our reach and looking to widen the ICAS community.”

Learn more about the Accounting and Business Professional