Diversity and Inclusion

Our Workforce

At AIA, one of our core strategic goals is to build a workforce of empowered, exceptional people who work together to achieve shared success. Central to this is our commitment to diversity and inclusion—recognising and respecting what makes each person unique, including age, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, education, and national origin.

We recruit and promote based solely on merit. Our approach is driven by the belief that a diverse workforce leads to more effective collaboration, sharper insights, and greater creativity. It also creates a positive, motivating environment where people feel valued and supported.

We are committed to nurturing an inclusive culture where everyone feels respected, heard, and able to perform at their best. Every individual plays a vital role in our success, and we work hard to ensure they feel recognised and engaged.

AIA is proud to be a signatory to the Good Business Charter, which recognises organisations that uphold responsible business practices. This includes paying a real living wage, offering fair contracts, supporting employee well-being and representation, promoting diversity and inclusion, acting ethically, and paying suppliers promptly.

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AIA Membership

AIA is proud to represent a diverse and global community of accountancy professionals. With members in 98 countries, our network reflects a wide range of nationalities, cultures, and backgrounds. Around 46% of our members are women, and we continue to champion greater representation across the profession.

While academic and professional standards are essential for membership, we believe that opportunity should be open to all. Whether you’re a graduate or changing careers, we offer flexible pathways to qualification and membership. We also work closely with colleges and universities to engage students early and highlight the rewarding career opportunities in accountancy and finance.

As a founding member of Access Accountancy, AIA is committed to improving access to the profession in the UK. This cross-sector initiative brings together over 26 organisations to ensure that entry into accountancy is based on merit—not background—so that everyone has a fair chance to succeed.

Board Membership

At AIA, we believe our governing bodies should reflect both our global membership and the society we serve. Acting in the public interest is central to our mission, and our governance structure is designed to support that responsibility.

In line with our Constitution and Code of Ethics, AIA’s corporate governance is led by the Council and supported by a number of Committees. These bodies include both AIA members and independent lay members who act as ‘critical friends’—providing challenge, insight, and support to help shape our strategy and uphold our values.

Our Council reflects the diversity of an international organisation, and we are actively working towards achieving gender balance within the next five years to better represent the communities we serve.

AIA Scholarship Programme

The AIA Educational & Benevolent Trust funds the AIA Scholarship Programme to support aspiring accountants in achieving the AIA professional qualification with full financial assistance. Scholarships are awarded annually to students from the UK and across the Commonwealth.

The AIA Accountancy Scholarship UK prioritises applicants from lower socio-economic backgrounds, reflecting our commitment to widening access through the Access Accountancy initiative. This scholarship covers all course and exam fees for the AIA professional qualification.

The AIA Commonwealth Scholarship supports our mission as a Commonwealth Accredited Organisation to strengthen education and economic development through financial education and professional skills. Like the UK award, it provides full funding for course and exam fees.

AIA offers a qualification and membership pathway for everyone.

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