FAB 2025 welcomes headliner Ray McCann: Tackling tax regulation challenges
FAB 2025 just got even more exciting! We're thrilled to announce that Ray McCann CTA (Fellow), ATT, one of the most influential voices in tax policy and regulation, will take the stage as a headliner at this year’s Festival of Accounting and Bookkeeping.
Who is Ray McCann?
With a career that bridges both sides of the tax world, Ray brings unparalleled insights into the complexities of regulation, compliance, and the evolving landscape of the profession. From his years as a senior HMRC Inspector to his role as a former President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT), Ray’s contributions to tax policy have been profound.
Key highlights of Ray’s illustrious career include:
- Leading the policy introduction of DOTAS (Disclosure of Tax Avoidance Schemes).
- Establishing HMRC’s Avoidance Intelligence Unit and the Business Tax Clearance Team.
- Senior roles at prestigious firms, including Pinsent Masons LLP, PwC, and Joseph Hage Aaronson.
- Chairing the joint Professional Standards Committee during his tenure at CIOT.
What to expect from Ray’s session at FAB
Drawing from his recent ICAEW Hardman Lecture, Ray will deliver a thought-provoking exploration of the current state of regulation within the tax profession.
Expect him to address:
- The challenges posed by unregulated or “shadow” tax advisers and their impact on the profession’s credibility.
- Why regulating advisers is only part of the solution and what structural reforms are needed.
- The responsibility that larger firms should have in setting the tone for ethical practice.
- The lessons the profession must embrace to uphold public trust and navigate an increasingly scrutinised landscape.
Ray’s session promises to be both candid and insightful, with thought-provoking takeaways for accountants and tax advisers at every level.
Why this matters
With tax advisers and accountants facing mounting regulatory pressures, Ray’s unique perspective is invaluable. His deep understanding of not only HMRC’s inner workings but also the challenges practitioners face gives him a unique perspective and the ability to explore solutions that balance compliance with practicality.
Don’t miss Ray McCann at #FAB2025
Join us on 12-13 March 2025 at the NEC, Birmingham for a front-row seat to this unmissable session. Whether you’re navigating regulatory challenges, striving for ethical best practices, or seeking to future-proof your firm, Ray’s insights will provide the guidance you need.
