In June, Sift brought together senior figures from across the finance and accounting profession for the first two Leaders’ Network sessions in London.
Hosted by AccountingWEB editors, the invitation-only events created a trusted environment for leaders to discuss the issues affecting their organisations, exchange experiences and learn from peers facing similar challenges.
The inaugural programme included two distinct groups: the Finance Leaders’ Network for CFOs, finance directors and senior finance professionals, and the Practice Leaders’ Network for senior decision-makers from mid-tier and larger accounting firms.
Open and honest conversations
The sessions were designed around peer-led discussion rather than presentations, giving attendees the time and space to explore the challenges they are currently facing.
Conversations covered leadership, investment decisions, economic uncertainty, business growth and the evolving expectations placed on senior finance and accounting professionals.
At the Finance Leaders’ Network, Hannah Galley, Charlotte Crowley, Cathy Cranton, Clare Elliott, Rebecca Baker and Dhosjan Greenaway-Dalini contributed to 90 minutes of open and lively debate.
The Practice Leaders’ Network provided a similar forum for leaders from mid-tier and larger accounting firms to discuss strategic priorities, share experiences and explore the opportunities and pressures shaping the profession.
Both sessions operated under Chatham House rules, allowing attendees to speak candidly while protecting the confidentiality of individuals and their organisations.
Created in response to the profession
The Leaders’ Network was developed following conversations at the Finance, Accounting & Bookkeeping Show 2026.
Senior leaders told the FAB and AccountingWEB teams that they wanted more time, greater depth and a private space to hold meaningful conversations with peers who understood their challenges.
The first sessions delivered exactly that: rooms filled with insight, discussion and shared experience, covering not only finance and accounting matters but wider business and leadership issues.
Building trusted professional communities
Each Leaders’ Network brings together a consistent cohort of between eight and 14 senior professionals, helping relationships and trust to develop across the year.
The groups will meet through a programme of sessions in London, Manchester and Birmingham, alongside a larger gathering at FAB. Discussion themes will be shaped by direct research with members, with relevant subject-matter experts invited where appropriate.
Following each session, attendees will also receive an anonymised summary of the key themes, tensions and practical takeaways from the conversation.
The inaugural events have set a strong foundation for the programme, with the next sessions planned for September. They mark the beginning of two communities built around honest discussion, shared learning and meaningful connections between influential leaders.