AAT appoints Craig Dyer as President and welcomes Libby Walklett as Vice President 

AAT (the Association of Accounting Technicians) has today announced the appointment of Craig Dyer as its new President, alongside Libby Walklett FMAAT as Vice-President, at its Annual General Meeting (AGM). 

Craig, who previously served as AAT Vice-President, has been appointed AAT President following the completion of Lucy Cohen’s one-year term, continuing a tradition of advocacy and representation of members. 

Both appointments bring together two experienced finance professionals who have taken unconventional routes into accountancy, reflecting AAT’s impact on its purpose of opening finance careers for everyone. 

Craig began his accounting career at the age of 37, having previously worked as an Assistant Headteacher in secondary education. Seeking a career change and greater flexibility for his family, he studied independently for his AAT qualifications before establishing his own practice in Cambridge. 

Craig is an advocate and supporter of the next generation of finance talent. Having retrained mid-career himself, he is committed to ensuring that people of all ages and backgrounds can access rewarding careers in accounting and finance. During his Presidency, he will shine a light on the people at the heart of AAT’s membership: the bookkeepers, accounting technicians, students and apprentices who keep businesses moving, support families, serve clients, and make a practical difference every day. 

Craig Dyer, AAT President, said:

“I’m incredibly proud to become President of AAT and represent the members who make such an important contribution to businesses and the economy across the UK. I know first-hand that there is no single route into this profession. Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t always easy to find. Throughout its history, AAT has fostered a vibrant member community, and as President, I want to build on that tradition. This will be achieved by bringing members together, celebrating their achievements and championing opportunities to pursue successful and rewarding careers in finance.” 

Joining Craig as Vice-President is Libby Walklett FMAAT, whose career similarly demonstrates the opportunities available through vocational education and professional designation. 

Before pursuing her AAT qualifications, Libby built a career in hospitality management and later transitioned into finance. Following this, she completed AAT Levels 3 and 4 at her local college, balancing her studies with parenting and caring responsibilities. Within a week of qualifying, she was teaching, before later establishing her own bookkeeping practice. 

An active member of the AAT community, Libby has served as a branch Chair, a member of the former AAT Council and most recently, the Members’ Advisory Council (MAC). She is particularly passionate about championing bookkeepers and highlighting their contribution to businesses and the wider economy. 

Libby Walklett FMAAT, AAT Vice-President, said:

“It’s an absolute privilege to step into this position and give back to a community that has given me so much throughout my career. Like many of our members, studying for my AAT qualifications opened doors that I hadn’t previously thought possible, giving me the confidence to establish my own practice and build a career that has taken me into rooms beyond my imagination. Together, with the Board, MAC and Executive Leadership Team, we have a fantastic opportunity to shape AAT’s future and deliver even more for all our members.” 

The appointments follow the conclusion of Lucy Cohen’s presidency, during which she championed the contribution of small businesses to the UK economy and the importance of widening access to the accountancy sector. 

Sarah Beale, AAT Chief Executive added:

“Craig and Libby’s appointments reflect the breadth of talent and determination that exists across our membership. They demonstrate that a successful career in accounting and bookkeeping is open to people at every stage of life and from every background. Their stories show the transformative impact that vocational qualifications can have, for individuals and businesses alike.  And how professional recognition maintains that success and secures the passion I see in both these fantastic AAT members.  

“I would also like to thank Lucy Cohen for her outstanding service as President over the past year. Her authenticity and advocacy for AAT members has helped shine a spotlight on the vital contribution SMEs and accounting professionals make to the UK economy. I look forward to working with Craig and Libby as we continue to champion our members together.”