ABSTRACT
The role of the management accountant in the United Kingdom (UK) is fairly well documented, and this chapter summarises its evolution. We examine some of the key drivers of change, including new policies, the adoption of new business models in UK organisations, social perceptions, education and training. Evidently, the shift from once being a mainly manufacturing based nation to one which is dominated by its service sector has required considerable change in its accounting profession. In addition, government policy changes during the 1970s, and the prevalence and high-status of accounting qualifications in boardrooms has brought influence and increased power to those individuals and groups who elect for a career in accounting. Whilst the social and professional standing of an accountant per se is currently strong, the future of UK management accountants in particular is very much up for debate, and possibly at an important juncture of its development. More specifically, there have been numerous recent discussions in both academic and professional-oriented literatures concerning the ‘balance’ of their organisational roles, and whether UK management accountants should remain rooted in traditional aspects or develop broader and more strategic roles.
