As part of our ResourcePlus roadshow, one of our Directors, Brendon Stevens, spent last week in Manchester for Accountex Summit Manchester. It was a valuable stop on the journey, not only to hear from thought leaders on the latest changes shaping the profession but also to connect with a number of contacts in person. The summit is very different from the larger London event. It feels more intimate and conversational, and it gives space to engage properly with peers. For us, that made the experience even more rewarding.
What We Took Away
UK Tax Developments Are Still Evolving
The sessions on tax were a reminder that change never slows down. Much of the conversation focused on the expansion of Making Tax Digital, the strengthening of anti-avoidance rules, and the government’s ongoing focus on transparency. The key message was that firms need to be proactive and guide clients well before new rules take effect.
AI in Practice: Beyond the Basics
AI is not new to most professionals, but it was interesting to hear how different firms are using it. Some are training their own models to spot anomalies in client records before submission. Others are experimenting with client-facing chatbots to handle routine queries, freeing partners to focus on winning new work. Many are using it to record meetings and manage follow-ups. The initial excitement around AI has cooled slightly, but firms should remain alert to the risks of poor data security and weak audit trails.
Cybercrime: The Urgent Concern
Perhaps the most striking topic was cybercrime and how it is catching both clients and accountants off guard. Firms shared stories of phishing attacks, supplier impersonation, and payroll fraud that caused real damage. It was clear that accountants are targeted because they hold so much sensitive data. One speaker described an in-depth phishing scam run over multiple platforms to access bank accounts. These are not science fiction; they are happening now. It’s alarming how often these attacks hit firms of all sizes. Firms need to embed cybersecurity into their culture. This underscores how critical tools like the IT checklist we provide are for flagging issues early. Regulators are also sharpening their expectations, and clients will soon insist on knowing that their adviser is secure.
Why Manchester Was a Great Host
For us at ResourcePlus, the Manchester leg of our roadshow underlined three things: first, regulatory change remains essential to stay ahead of; second, AI has great potential when guided carefully; and third, cybersecurity is now a central duty of every accounting firm and cannot be treated as a side project. Most importantly, the conversations we had in Manchester were more personal and engaging than is possible at a larger show. That intimacy helped us understand where firms are struggling and where they are finding opportunities. We left with new knowledge, stronger relationships, and a clearer view of how we can support our clients and partners in the months ahead.
