AAT appoints Sir Stephen Hillier as Board Chair

The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) has named Sir Stephen Hillier as its inaugural Board Chair, a move that signals a sweeping overhaul of its governance—a framework largely unchanged for nearly a decade.

The new structure, set to launch on April 1, 2025, aligns with the enhanced standards of the UK’s Charity Governance Code 2020, positioning the organization for a future of stronger oversight and innovation.

Sir Stephen will head a newly formed, skills-based Trustee Board for a three-year term. As AAT’s principal decision-making body, the board will include 11 non-executive directors, with at least 20% of its composition drawn from AAT’s membership.

Since assuming the role of Chair at the Civil Aviation Authority in 2020, Sir Stephen has been instrumental in upholding aviation safety, security, and consumer interests. His extensive portfolio also includes board service at the UK Atomic Energy Authority and chairmanship of the RAF Museum Board of Trustees—a testament to his distinguished military career culminating in his tenure as Chief of the Air Staff in the Royal Air Force.

Known for his advocacy of social mobility and diverse voices, he brings a collaborative and inclusive approach to his new role.

Michael Steed, President of AAT, says:

“As one of the strongest voices for responsible business in accountancy and finance, AAT always champions best practice – not just within the profession, but also within our own organisation.

“Our governing structure has been in place for many years, during which time both AAT and the profession have significantly evolved. Since Sarah Beale’s appointment as CEO over three years ago, she has led the development of an ambitious 2030 strategy, ensuring AAT remains relevant and future ready.

“As a proudly diverse accountancy membership body, we have a responsibility to our members and society to ensure our Trustee Board reflects a broad mix of skills, knowledge, and experience to strengthen our decision-making.

“I am delighted to welcome Stephen as our newly appointed Board Chair and look forward to working together to drive AAT forward.”

Sir Stephen Hillier, newly appointed Chair of AAT’s Trustee Board, says:

“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. By working collaboratively with the Board, President, the new Members’ Advisory Council and with the executive team, we will navigate the evolving landscape of accounting, embracing opportunities for growth and social mobility and continuing to uphold the highest standards of professionalism.

“I look forward to leading AAT into this exciting new chapter and ensuring that we remain a dynamic, forward-thinking organisation that empowers our members for the future.”

AAT’s Council approved the updated governance framework in April 2024—a plan that required significant modifications to the Articles of Association and the delegation scheme. At the AGM in October 2024, an overwhelming 95% of members voted in favor of the proposed changes.

Complementing these reforms, a new Members’ Advisory Council is being established to amplify the membership voice within the organization. One MAC appointee will join the Trustee Board, ensuring that member perspectives remain integral to AAT’s strategic direction.