What’s on the agenda? Highlights from Members Board September 2026

Members Board met for their quarterly meeting on 2 September which focused firmly on making ICAS membership more useful, connected and relevant. Here are the key takeaways.

Making member value clearer 

A key theme running through the meeting was how ICAS can make the value of membership easier for members to see, understand and feel. Board members discussed the importance of the CA designation, the credibility it carries and the professional community it helps create. 

There was also recognition that some member benefits (particularly events, mentoring, technical resources, volunteering opportunities and Area Network activity) could be better signposted and brought to life more clearly. It was felt that students, newly qualified members and those working in industry would be priority groups when considering how to progress any changes.   

Communicating with members in a more targeted way 

Members Board heard about plans for annual renewal communications, including a new icas.com hub bringing together benefit information, member testimonials, frequently asked questions and renewal guidance.

The Board also discussed how communications could be made more personal and relevant, with better use of sector information, more relatable CA stories and concise updates that members can easily share within their own firms and networks.

Conversations around future fees also took place, with the discussion focused on the importance of explaining member value clearly. 

Shaping a stronger digital experience 

Members also saw a prototype of ICAS Advantage platform, being developed as a single logged-in experience for employers, members and regulated firms.

The first employer-facing version is expected before Christmas, with future member features focused on personalised content, community and easier access to ICAS services.

Members Board feedback is already included in the development work for the member platform.  A Board working group may help shape the next stages. 

More ways to have your say 

A new always-on member pulse is planned alongside topical surveys. Initially, members will be able to rate their satisfaction and share further feedback through icas.com. ICAS will monitor emerging themes and publish “you said, we did” updates so members can see how their views are informing decisions. 

Building stronger connections 

The Board discussed opportunities to strengthen two-way communication between ICAS, Area Network committees and members, including better routes for understanding what members value, what they find difficult and where they would like to see improvements. 

There was also discussion of a potential North of England network covering Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool. A trial informal event is being considered to test interest and identify member volunteers who could support future activity. 

What happens next?

Work will continue on value communications, ICAS Advantage and the member feedback programme, with progress returning to the Board in November. The next Members Board meeting takes place on 18 November 2026.