Scottish business body appoints first female boss in 172-year history
“My focus will be on ensuring that Icas continues to act in the public interest while driving sustainable growth for the organisation, value for its members and relevance for our qualification” – Gail Boag
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (Icas) has appointed the first female chief executive in the organisation’s 172-year history.
From January 1, Gail Boag, currently Icas’ executive director for learning and market development, will take over from outgoing chief executive Bruce Cartwright. Boag’s previous roles include the dean of Edinburgh Napier’s Business School and regional director of Scotland for BT.
She said: “I’m deeply honoured to take on the role of CEO at Icas. The organisation has a distinguished history of upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and public trust. My focus will be on ensuring that Icas continues to act in the public interest while driving sustainable growth for the organisation, value for its members and relevance for our qualification.
“Together, we will build on Icas’ proud legacy and strengthen its impact for the future.”
Cartwright, who has been in post since May 2018, said: “It has been a great privilege to lead Icas through such a transformational period. We have a clear identity and purpose, a strong culture of delivering in the public interest.
“I would like to thank the exceptional executive team and colleagues who make it all happen. And to the members and students, as our ambassadors, you bring Icas and the CA qualification to life. Thank you.”
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The organisation’s membership is made up of more than 24,000 business professionals who work in the UK and in some 85 other countries.
Icas president Karen Scholes added: “After a competitive process, I am pleased to announce that we’ve appointed Gail Boag as our new CEO. Gail has already demonstrated her mettle over the last three years as our executive director, learning and market development, leading and delivering our new world class CA syllabus.
“Gail brings with her a wealth of experience and I know that she will lead the organisation with drive and passion. I also want to thank our outgoing CEO Bruce Cartwright for his leadership and commitment to the organisation over the last eight years and both I and my fellow council members wish him all the very best for the future.”
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