ICB works with the Institute of Agricultural Secretaries and Administrators (IAgSA) to support the professionals who manage the financial and administrative needs of farms and rural businesses.
With a focus on ensuring best practices in bookkeeping, compliance, and record-keeping, IAgSA provides a dedicated network for farm secretaries across the UK.
To strengthen this support, ICB works closely with IAgSA, particularly in the area of compliance. From Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations to best bookkeeping practices, the partnership ensures that farm secretaries are equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to stay compliant.
“ICB’s webinars are fantastic,” says Louise Templeton, IAgSA’s Vice Chairman and an ICB member. “The support they provide, especially around AML compliance, has been invaluable. There’s been a huge shift in attitudes towards compliance, and ICB has really led the way in helping bookkeepers understand and navigate these changes.”
Originally founded to recruit a national secretarial service to support farming, IAgSA itself began life as IAgS in 1967. The success of it was due almost entirely to women supporting their family business. IAgSA has continued to evolve into the professional organisation of today advocating for high standards in agricultural bookkeeping. It provides training, networking opportunities, and resources tailored to the unique challenges of financial administration in rural industries.
ICB’s expertise in compliance is particularly valuable for IAgSA members. “I think we’ve moved from a place where people questioned whether they needed to do AML at all, to now understanding that it’s a non-negotiable part of our work,” says Louise. “ICB has made it easier for farm secretaries to get the right training and stay on top of their responsibilities.”
Beyond compliance, the collaboration between ICB and IAgSA promotes professional development. Through ICB’s training and qualifications, farm secretaries can gain recognised credentials, boosting their confidence and credibility.
“We really encourage our members to gain professional qualifications,” Louise explains. “We know there are incredibly skilled bookkeepers out there who are qualified by experience, but having that formal recognition through ICB makes a real difference in terms of confidence and business growth.”
As IAgSA continues to modernise and support its members, its partnership with ICB remains crucial in providing practical, high-quality guidance on regulatory changes. “It’s all about giving our members the tools to do their job well,” says Louise. “If you know the rules, you know how far you can go. That clarity is invaluable.”
For farm secretaries looking to enhance their compliance knowledge and professional credentials, ICB and IAgSA together provide a strong foundation for success.
ICB is supporting the 2025 IAgSA Annual Conference taking place 7 – 9 February 2025 in Cumbria.
