A prestigious new competition to shine a light on the emerging talent shaping the future of the accountancy profession has been launched by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS). CA Rising Stars will recognise and celebrate the top Chartered Accountants (CAs), aged 35 and under, who are demonstrating ethical leadership, driving innovation and championing positive change around the world.
This annual celebration of excellence will culminate in a diverse shortlist of 35 outstanding young professionals, who will be profiled alongside one standout winner. The top star will be chosen to represent ICAS at the One Young World Summit in Munich, Germany – a renowned event that gathers young leaders from over 190 countries to collaborate on solutions to most pressing global issues.
The search builds on the success of ICAS’ previous iteration of the competition, One Young CA, which produced an impressive rollout of past honourees including 2017 winner Jonny Jacobs CA, Group Finance Director at Holland & Barrett, who was recently elected as ICAS Vice President.
Nominees must demonstrate their efforts to make a tangible impact in one of three categories: Ethical leaders, Innovators, or Changemakers. The categories reflect ICAS’ core values of upholding public trust, pioneering innovation in emerging technologies and business models, and leading meaningful change in areas such as sustainability.
Bruce Cartwright CA, ICAS CEO, said:
“The past 12 months have marked an extraordinary period of change for the profession. CA Rising Stars will highlight the bright young minds who have not only stepped up to the challenges confronting the profession and the wider business world, but set an example for the generation of CAs to follow.
“The competition is part of ICAS’ long-standing commitment to showcase and encourage the exceptional quality of talent within our industry, highlight the diverse career opportunities that accountancy opens doors to, and ensure the future of the profession is in good hands.”
ICAS members aged 35 and under, based anywhere in the world and working in any sector, are eligible to apply or be nominated by peers ahead of the Friday 20 June submission deadline. The judging panel will meet in July, with the final shortlist announced and overall winner crowned in August.
To apply, nominate, or learn more about the competition visit: CA Rising Stars 2025
