Laura Mason CA

Assistant Manager, Public Services Advisory, Financial modelling & Data Analytics, Grant Thornton

Laura Mason CA’s work bridges finance, data and public service to create lasting impact. With experience in transport, energy and climate resilience, she has shaped multi-billion-pound procurement projects and designed tools to allocate government funding effectively – including £10m for offshore wind in the Celtic Sea. A chartered management consultant as well as a CA, Mason goes beyond spreadsheets, building Power Query tools for national funding, writing thought leadership on AI and EVs and speaking on public service innovation.

Mason is also using her position to drive social change, co-developing chatbots to improve access to mental health care and local services for recent arrivals who don’t speak English. As an advocate for marine sustainability, she has spoken at the UN Ocean Conference, EU Maritime Day and Unesco events, championing ocean health and seaweed recycling. She’s raised more than £500,000 for global health and education causes and represents ICAS as a London Area Network member, amplifying diverse voices in the profession.

Whether building financial models or influencing climate change and policy dialogues, she demonstrates that being a CA today means leading with purpose, innovation and impact. Her career shows how finance can be a tool for public good – making her a true changemaker and a powerful voice for the future of the profession.

Judges say: Laura is an exceptional candidate applying CA skills to public service, data innovation, global advocacy and social entrepreneurship. Her varied skillset shows she can operate across sectors with purpose-driven impact.  

While at first glance, sustainability would appear to be her driving passion, she is clearly an innovator who is enthusiastic about the potential of new technology – writing thought leadership pieces and appearing on podcasts to discuss AI, EVs and data-driven public transport solutions.

Her determination to use her platform for purpose is commendable, exemplifying much of what is best about the future role of the CA. A relatively recent addition to full membership – she qualified in 2024 – Laura has a great career ahead of her and we will watch it with interest.

Naeema Joji CA

Assistant Manager, RSM UK

Naeema Joji CA isn’t here to blend in, she’s here to build. Since qualifying in 2024, she has quickly emerged as a dynamic and values-driven leader. Her work focuses on inclusion, social mobility and early-career engagement. Notably, despite not being a manager, she led the African Caribbean Network at her previous firm, organising impactful events and advocating for recognition of Black professionals. Now at a new firm, she’s initiating similar culture-shifting efforts. Within ICAS, Joji is an active contributor, involved in the Black Members’ Network, the Grampian Area Network Committee and the Women’s Network Advisory Group. Her leadership is defined by authenticity, clarity and a commitment to community. She consistently uses her platform to promote equity and inspire change, grounded in her own lived experience. Her vision is of a profession where opportunity is truly accessible to all.

Judges say: Naeema’s nomination is of a very high standard and clearly articulated the drive and aptitude of a changemaker. The depth and breadth of her character and skills shine through, and this is even more impressive given the fact that she is only recently qualified. Naeema’s championing of EDI initiatives, including raising the profile of ICAS’ Black Members’ Network, demonstrates her commitment to making the accountancy profession more inclusive. An inspiring candidate and definitely one to watch.  

Michael Oates CA

Partner, RSM UK

Michael Oates CA is committed to giving back and opening access to the accountancy profession. In addition to his audit role, he is an ICAS Foundation mentor, supports early careers outreach and serves as a college governor and committee chair. He has created meaningful links between education and the workplace, designing and leading initiatives such as mock assessments, taster days and career presentations. The results can be seen in the 16 outreach events he has facilitated over the past year, attracting more than 700 applications and resulting in 17 hires. Oates has an inclusive leadership style, which earns consistent praise for his career development support and knowledge sharing. Additionally, he leads efforts to enhance technical training and career pathways within the firm. His promotion to Partner at the age of 34 reflects his dedication, influence and inspirational approach to professional development.

Judges say: Michael demonstrates a strong commitment to giving back and nurturing talent through mentorship. This is a very impressive application that demonstrates the power of outreach, good training, community building and forging links with important local institutions. Michael not only meets but exceeds the criteria of an ethical leader.

Peter Cowan CA

Audit and Accounts Director, Hall Morrice

Peter Cowan CA exemplifies a new generation of strategic leaders in accountancy, driving digital transformation while fostering strong client and team relationships. He led the successful financial integration of a UK firm acquired by a Norwegian parent, demonstrating technical expertise and cross-border leadership. He has spearheaded Hall Morrice’s digital evolution, implementing cloud-based systems and Power BI to enhance efficiency and client insight. As a representative on the PrimeGlobal IT Communities of Practice, he helps to shape international best practices. On a more personal level, Cowan’s leadership style is rooted in mentorship, supporting junior staff through technological change, while outside the office he manages the Angus Farmers’ Market, reflecting his community values. At just 31, he’s on track to become Hall Morrice's youngest-ever Director of Audit and Accounting – making him a true Rising Star within the firm and the profession.

Judges say: A prime example of a CA who is both forward and outward-looking, Pete is leading digital transformation while liaising with peers overseas to establish best practice. On this evidence, we can certainly see why he’s poised to become a director at such an exceptionally early age.