The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) in the UK has named Sir Stephen Hillier as its first-ever chair of the board.

The updated framework, which is set to take effect on 1 April 2025, is designed to ensure that AAT stays future-focused and complies with the “high” standards set out in the UK’s Charity Governance Code 2020.

In this new role, Hillier will lead the new skills-based trustee board for a three-year term.

The trustee board, AAT’s top decision-making body, will govern the organisation and include 11 non-executive directors plus the chair.

The AAT council approved the new structure in April 2024, prompting key changes to the Articles of Association and delegation scheme. At the October 2024 AGM, 95% of members voted in favour.

Alongside the new chair and trustee board, a members’ advisory council (MAC) will be created to keep members’ perspectives at the heart of AAT’s development.

Additionally, a MAC representative will join the Board, bridging governance and member representation.

AAT is a UK-based professional body for accounting technicians and bookkeepers, with over 70,000 students, including more than 6,000 apprentices, and a global advocacy for the profession.

 Sir Stephen Hillier said: “It’s an honour to be appointed as the chair of the inaugural trustee board for AAT at a pivotal time for the organisation.

“AAT has a strong history of supporting accounting professionals, driving up excellence, and supporting diversity and social mobility. I am committed to building on that legacy. “Under our new structure, my focus will be on ensuring strong governance, fostering innovation, and enhancing the support we provide to our members, students, and stakeholders.”