Council is the governing body of ACCA and so has a pivotal role in ACCA affairs (see Council’s remit in the panel below).
Council and the executive team collaborate to devise ACCA’s strategy, which is then approved by Council. Delivery of the strategy is the responsibility of the executive team, with oversight provided by Council via the Council Board.
Council members are volunteer custodians, elected by the membership of ACCA to provide overall stewardship of ACCA’s wellbeing. They act in the interests of the membership as a whole, rather than on behalf of any particular constituency or group.
Candidates for election to Council come from all parts of the world and hold a wide range of positions across a range of sectors. For those wishing to stand, it is valuable to be able to think strategically and actively participate in strategic decision-making.
Attributes of Council members
- An ability to take a strategic and analytical approach to issues and to see ‘the big picture’
- An understanding of business and the marketplace
- Communication and networking skills
- An ability to interact with peers and respect the views of others
- Decision-making abilities
- An ability and track record of acting in an ambassadorial role in many different environments
- Planning and time management skills
- A willingness to learn and develop.
Integrity
While previous council-level experience is not necessary, personal and professional integrity must be of the highest standard.
Experience has shown that those candidates with a previous record of engaging with and actively advocating for ACCA stand a greater chance of being elected.
ACCA expects members to bring a number of skills and attributes to Council (see panel).
How to apply
Anyone wishing to stand must be nominated by at least 10 other members of good standing. Candidates need to supply a head-and-shoulders photograph and an election statement. They are also required to sign declarations of their willingness to comply with and be bound by the code of practice for Council members.
Candidates can produce a one-minute video in support of their election statements. These will be posted on a dedicated voting website, together with the written statements and photographs. Information on serving on Council and the election process are available on ACCA’s website.
To register your interest or for more information, please send an email, quoting ‘Council elections’ in the subject box.
The closing date for the submission of nominations and all supporting information is 18 August 2021, in accordance with bye-law 16.
Remit of Council
- Ensuring that ACCA operates in the public interest and delivers the objectives stated in its Royal Charter
- Setting the overall direction of ACCA through regular approval of ACCA strategy
- Ensuring that governance structures are aligned to the effective delivery of the strategy
- Engaging with ACCA members to explain and promote ACCA’s strategic direction
- Acting on behalf of all members and of future generations of members (today’s students)
- Providing an objective environment for the executive team to explore new ideas and challenges.