Championing fairness, opportunity, and representation across the global accountancy profession.
Everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed. Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to the strength of the accountancy profession and the global communities it serves. AIA is committed to building a culture where fairness, representation and belonging are not just values but everyday practice. This commitment supports our members, our workforce and the future of the profession.
Leadership should reflect the diversity of the membership and wider society. The Council and Committees include both members and independent contributors who help shape strategy, provide oversight and ensure decisions are made in the public interest. These bodies are designed to represent a broad range of perspectives and experiences.
Learn moreGovernance is guided by a Constitution and Code of Ethics that promote transparency, fairness and accountability. Decision-making benefits from a wide range of viewpoints, helping to ensure that leadership remains representative, inclusive and aligned with the values of the profession. This approach supports responsible governance and reinforces public trust in AIA’s work.
Learn morePeople are central to the success of AIA. Creating an environment where individuals feel respected, supported and able to contribute meaningfully is key to delivering our strategic goals. Diversity, equity and inclusion are embedded in how we recruit, develop and engage our workforce.
One of AIA’s strategic goals is to nurture a team of exceptional individuals. Differences in age, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, education and national origin are respected and celebrated. Recruitment and promotion are based on merit. A diverse team brings creativity, improves performance and strengthens connections with a global audience.
Every individual is respected and valued. Our workplace culture aims to encourage people to perform at their best and contribute to shared success. Inclusion is woven into everyday practices and policies.
AIA is a signatory of the Good Business Charter. This recognises a commitment to fair pay, responsible employment, environmental awareness, ethical sourcing and inclusive practices. These principles support a positive and sustainable working environment.
Our membership reflects the diversity of the accountancy profession and the communities it serves. With members in over 98 countries, AIA brings together a wide range of nationalities, cultures and professional experiences. Around 46 percent of members are women, and ongoing efforts are focused on increasing representation across all areas of membership. Equity and inclusion are central to how the organisation supports its members, ensuring that everyone has access to opportunities for growth and recognition.
Membership is open to individuals at all stages of their careers. Entry is based on academic and professional achievement, but qualification routes are designed to be flexible and inclusive. These pathways support graduates, career changers and those returning to the profession. Partnerships with colleges and universities help raise awareness of opportunities in accounting and finance, with a focus on reaching students from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds. As a member of Access Accountancy, AIA works collaboratively to ensure that access and progression are based on merit, not background.
The AIA Educational and Benevolent Trust provides full financial support to students pursuing the AIA professional qualification, helping to remove barriers for those who may otherwise be excluded due to financial constraints. The AIA Accountancy Scholarship UK prioritises applicants from lower socio-economic backgrounds and supports the goals of Access Accountancy by promoting fair access to the profession. The AIA Commonwealth Scholarship extends this support to students across the Commonwealth, helping to build financial capability and professional skills in regions where opportunities may be limited. These scholarships reflect a commitment to equity in education and progression, ensuring that talent and potential are recognised regardless of background.
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