Leaders in financial accounting have been honoured at the inaugural Institute of Financial Accountants (IFA) awards, held on 26 June in London. 

The IFA awards recognise outstanding talent, dedication, and innovation across the accountancy profession in three categories – IFA Member of the Year, sponsored by Equals Money, IFA Practice of the Year, sponsored by Capium, and the Rising Professionalof the Year award, sponsored by EB Now. 

The awards celebrated the exceptional dedication, expertise, and innovation of the winners in their professional field and community in the last 12 months. Muhammad Bilal was recognised as IFA Member of the Year. The Yorkshire-based professional impressed the judges with how his practice-based ethos supports his mental health advocacy and noted his influence in the Yorkshire region.  

IFA Practice of the Year went to Forest Phoenix Accountancy Ltd. based in Cinderford, Gloucestershire. The judges determined the practice to be a 'great all-rounder' which was brought to life by its detailed entry. 

Andrew Coombs from Kings Oak Accountancy Services Ltd based in Radsock,Somersetwas named Rising Professional of the Year, impressing the judges with impressive testimonials and a clear balance of progression and innovation in his role as a practicing accountant. 

The awards formed part of the IFA’s 2025 Annual Conference, bringing together leading voices in accountancy, business, and finance. Winners were chosen by a panel of expert judges from across the industry based on their achievements and impact, plus their alignment with the IFA’s values of integrity, service, and professional excellence. 

“It was wonderful to celebrate our members’ efforts during what has been a pivotal and challenging 12 months for the industry,” said Jonathan Barber, Executive Director – UK. “Financial leadership has never been more important, and this year’s winners represent the best in our profession—innovative, ethical, and forward-thinking professionals who go above and beyond for their clients and communities. We are proud to celebrate their contributions to both the IFA and the broader financial landscape." 

For more information about the IFA, visit ifa.org.uk 

ENDS 

Notes to editors 

The Institute of Financial Accountants (IFA) is an internationally recognised professional accountancy membership body providing dedicated support to SMEs and SMPs. It is part of the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) Group, one of the world’s largest SME-focused accountancy group, with more than 49,000 members and students in 100 countries, and a full member of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) the global accounting standard-setter and regulator for the accountancy profession. IFA members work within micro and small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) or in micro and small- to medium-sized accounting practices (SMPs) advising micro and SME clients.