EisnerAmper Ireland Hosts The Academy 2024

At EisnerAmper Ireland, our commitment to the professional growth of our team is at the heart of everything we do.  Each year, we host The EisnerAmper Ireland Academy, our annual all-staff residential training program, which plays a pivotal role in accelerating our professionals’ development.  The Academy is more than a training day; it is an immersive experience designed to empower our staff with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration to excel as not just accountants but as exceptional advisers and practitioners. 

This year the EAI Academy embraced the theme “The Art of Practice”, showcasing our firm’s distinctive approach to nurturing the current and next generation of accounting practitioners.  The two-day program offered a dynamic mix of interactive workshops, technical training sessions, and knowledge-sharing exercises.  Each session was thoughtfully crafted to enhance participants’ skills and provide valuable insights into becoming outstanding professionals in today’s fast-evolving industry. 

One of the highlights of this year’s Academy was its focus on practical application and collaboration.  Through real-world case studies, team exercises, and thought-provoking discussions, participants gained a deeper understanding of the principles that underpin exceptional client service and innovative problem-solving.  This hands-on approach not only honed technical expertise but also reinforced critical interpersonal and advisory skills, essential for success in client engagements. 

We heard from Claire Byrne, CEO of St Raphael’s Garda Credit Union, who shared insights from her career journey and provided a unique client’s perspective on working with EisnerAmper Ireland.  This discussion underscored the importance of understanding client needs and maintaining strong, collaborative relationships in delivering exceptional service. 

The Academy also provided a unique opportunity for networking, bringing together professionals at all levels of the firm.  This collaboration fosters a culture of shared learning and mentorship, ensuring that each team member feels supported in their journey towards becoming a leading practitioner. 

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Claire Byrne and  everyone who participated in the EisnerAmper Ireland Academy 2024.  EisnerAmper Ireland remains committed to investing in our people and building a workplace where talent thrives.  The EisnerAmper Ireland Academy 2024 exemplified our dedication to equipping our team with the skills, confidence, and mindset to lead with excellence in a competitive industry. 

Navigating the Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process – SREP

At EisnerAmper Ireland, we are committed to providing practical, hands-on guidance that empowers our clients to navigate complex regulatory landscapes with confidence.  In collaboration with the Irish MiFID Industry Association (IMIA), we hosted an event focused on one of the most critical regulatory assessments for financial services firms—the Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process (SREP).  

This event was designed to offer participants practical insights into how firms can effectively prepare for and manage a SREP engagement with the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI).  Our expert panel shared invaluable advice drawn from our extensive experience supporting clients through every stage of the SREP process. 

Key Topics: How to Prepare and Excel During a SREP Review 

The panel, featuring Frank Keane, Partner, Risk & Regulatory; Carina Myles, Partner, Governance, Risk & Compliance; and Ronan Murphy, Partner, Head of Internal Audit, led a discussion on how firms can best prepare for a SREP visit.  The session covered essential topics such as:

Documenting Your Strategy and Business Model Risk Assessment:

Ensuring that your firm’s strategy and risk assessment are thoroughly documented and aligned with your business model is crucial for meeting regulatory expectations.  The panel shared industry practices on how to approach this critical step.  Regulators are alive to incongruence between the strategy and the risk assessment.

Evaluating Internal Governance & Risk Management Frameworks:

A key component of the SREP is the assessment of internal governance structures and risk management frameworks.  The team offered insights into how firms can strengthen these areas to meet CBI standards. Regulators will be looking for evidence of an adequately assessed control environment.  Regulators will have an expectation that Internal Audit functions follow –up proactively on their own findings and those of Supervisors, along with any remedial actions taken in response – and to report back to Boards on this process.

Preparing Your Internal Capital Adequacy and Risk Assessment Process (ICARAP):

The ICARAP forms the backbone of a firm’s ability to manage capital adequacy and risk.  Our team discussed how to ensure this document accurately reflects your firm’s risk profile and capital needs.  Reliance on undocumented or informal governance processes will not satisfy Regulators.  

Best Practices and Client Support 

Throughout the event, our panel emphasised the importance of preparation for a SREP review.  Key takeaways included strategies for: 

– managing the feedback received from CBI post-review; 

– implementing ongoing improvements based on regulatory insights; and  

– continuously evolving internal frameworks to stay compliant. 

 With experience guiding clients through their SREP reviews, EisnerAmper Ireland’s Risk & Regulatory, Governance, and Internal Audit teams are uniquely positioned to support firms at every stage of the process. 

We understand the complexities of regulatory compliance and risk management.  Our dedicated teams provide a comprehensive suite of services, including: 

– Risk & Regulatory Advisory: Helping clients navigate the evolving regulatory environment and ensuring compliance with CBI and MiFID regulations. 

– Governance, Risk & Compliance: Designing and implementing robust governance frameworks that support long-term success. 

– Internal Audit Services: Providing independent reviews and assessments to strengthen internal controls and ensure effective risk management. 

If your firm is preparing for a SREP visit, or if you have recently undergone one, our expert partners – Frank Keane, Carina Myles, and Ronan Murphy – are available to provide guidance and support throughout the entire process. 

We are committed to helping our clients excel in their regulatory obligations while driving strategic growth.  Thank you to all who joined us, and we look forward to continuing these important conversations with our clients and industry peers. 

Ronan Murphy, Partner, Head of Internal Audit, Carina Myles, Partner, Head of Risk & Regulatory & Frank Keane, Partner, Risk & Regulatory

Beyond Limits: Empowering Your Career Through Financial Literacy

EisnerAmper Ireland had the privilege of hosting the 100 Women In Finance (WIF) Q3 event, Beyond Limits: Empowering Your Career Through Financial Literacy, at The Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI).  The event brought together professionals to explore how financial literacy can be a driving force in overcoming career barriers and seizing new opportunities. 

The event began with a warm welcome from Alastair MacDonald, Chair of EisnerAmper Ireland, and Ciara McGuinness, 100 WIF committee member.  They highlighted the significance of the upcoming National Financial Literacy Strategy from the Department of Finance Ireland, which will further promote the importance of financial awareness at both personal and professional levels. 

Our speakers included Attracta van Rensburg, CEO of EisnerAmper Ireland; Catherine Guy, CEO of Nifti Business; and Colin Murphy, playwright and journalist.  Each shared invaluable insights into how financial literacy shaped their professional journeys, helping them to navigate complex career transitions, overcome obstacles, and embrace new roles.  Their stories resonated deeply with attendees, showcasing financial literacy not only as a tool for financial management but as an enabler of confidence and growth.  

The event was further enriched by a special moment when award-winning actress Jane Brennan joined Colin Murphy on stage to perform a scene from his play The Treaty.  This powerful performance underscored the importance of having women in the rooms where decisions that shape the country, industry, and careers are made.  

In her closing remarks, Niamh Geraghty, 100 WIF committee member, reflected on the key takeaways from the event, reminding us of the power of financial literacy to drive career empowerment and progression.  The event concluded with a networking session, allowing attendees to continue their discussions in the beautiful surrounds of MoLI. 

This event was not just a celebration of financial literacy but also a call to action for more women to be present where key decisions are made.  We are grateful for the opportunity to facilitate such an empowering and insightful event and look forward to supporting more initiatives that inspire career growth and financial confidence. 

EisnerAmper Ireland Sponsors K Club Ryder Cup

EisnerAmper Ireland sponsored the IFSC Golf Society’s final event of the year at the K Club Ryder Cup course.  David Carroll hosted the afternoon where members competed for Captain Dave Carroll’s Prize.  The attendees enjoyed a memorable day of golf, networking, and friendly competition to wrap up the season.    

David Carroll, Partner, Head of Aviation & David Dunne, Director, Accounting & Compliance

EisnerAmper Ireland Welcomes Their 2024 Graduate Trainees

We were excited to welcome the newest members of our team as part of the 2024 Graduate Programme at EisnerAmper Ireland in September.  They completed a comprehensive 2-week on-site Induction Programme, which covers technical training, practical on-the-job experience, and soft skills development.  Our new Trainees gained experience in each of the Audit, Accounting & Compliance, and Tax departments. 

From day one, our Trainees collaborate closely with Partners and Senior Management to deliver tailored services and solutions to our key markets.  This hands-on approach ensures they gain practical experience while developing the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed for long-term career success. 

If you’re looking to kick-start your career in audit, accountancy, or tax with real-world, hands-on experience at a firm that values and nurtures dedication and commitment, EisnerAmper Ireland is the perfect place for you. 

To read more about Life in EisnerAmper and our career opportunities click here.  

EisnerAmper Ireland Summer BBQ 2024

The EisnerAmper Ireland team was thrilled to host our annual Summer Games and BBQ at Merrion Cricket Club.  The afternoon was filled with fun and friendly competition, featuring games like mini golf, Connect Four, footpool, limbo, boules, and Jenga.  The festivities continued with a delicious BBQ, refreshing drinks, and live music, making it a memorable day for everyone involved. 

ESG Discovery Afternoon with Villanova University

We were pleased to host students from Villanova University for our ESG Discovery Afternoon, offering an engaging introduction to ESG Reporting from a European perspective.  The event featured a workshop on the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive led by Peter MacDonald, Partner, Head of ESG Advisory and insights from Troy Lavin, Managing Director of VITHIT.  Attendees also saw a live demonstration of our CSRD Compliance and Reporting Software, EnSiGn and participated in an interactive exercise facilitated by Frank Keane, Partner, Risk & Regulatory.  

This initiative emphasised the importance of ESG in shaping a sustainable future while giving students valuable insights into its critical role in modern business. 

EisnerAmper Ireland appoints Attracta van Rensburg as Chief Executive Officer

EisnerAmper Ireland has announced the expansion of its leadership team with the appointment of Attracta van Rensburg as Chief Executive Officer.  Alastair MacDonald, Partner, has been appointed Head of Strategy & Innovation and Executive Chair. 

With more than 25 years in leadership positions in Irish and international financial services, Attracta has a track record serving clients, leading teams, scaling businesses and building cultures where employees can flourish.  As CEO, Attracta together with the Partners and Management team, will further professionalise how EisnerAmper operates – developing its people, serving its clients, and positioning itself for future growth. 

At a time of technological, regulatory and environmental change, the Firm’s appointment of Alastair as Head of Strategy & Innovation reflects its ongoing commitment to strategic leadership, driving innovative change and growth. 

Alastair MacDonald, Head of Strategy & Innovation and Executive Chair, EisnerAmper Ireland, commented:  

“On behalf of my fellow Partners, I am delighted to announce the appointment of Attracta to the position of CEO.  

Attracta’s appointment reflects our strategy to deliver market leading sustainable services and solutions to the financial services and international trade markets through a combination of world-class talent, focus on quality, innovative use of technology, and a globally connected team. 

On behalf of the team at EisnerAmper Ireland, I would like to congratulate Attracta on her appointment.  I look forward to working with Attracta and wish her every success.” 

Attracta van Rensburg, CEO, EisnerAmper Ireland, commented:  

“I have always admired EisnerAmper Ireland’s culture – its professionalism, quality and innovation focus and its unwavering commitment to attracting and developing world-class talent.   

The Firm’s values of caring, connected, collegiate, commercial, candid and can-do resonate deeply with my own personal values.  I am looking forward to working with the Partners and an incredible team of professionals as we continue to serve clients and build on the Firm’s achievements.”  

About EisnerAmper Ireland 

EisnerAmper Ireland is a specialist firm of accountants, auditors, tax advisors and risk and regulatory experts.  It has a niche focus on the financial services and international trade markets.  Working alongside 4,000 professionals globally, EisnerAmper Ireland’s 16 Partners and 120+ team play a key role in driving international trade in and through Ireland and in advising Irish corporates.  

EisnerAmper Ireland is a founding member of EisnerAmper Global, a specialist network of independent member firms operating via global international trading and financial services hubs.   

Being part of EisnerAmper Global gives clients access to the experience and expertise of EisnerAmper’s 450 Partners and 4,000 professionals across the United States and key trading hubs globally. 

EAI for TY Programme 2024

In February, EisnerAmper Ireland was delighted to host our ‘EAI for TY’ programme, specifically designed to provide Transition Year students with an immersive learning experience and valuable insights into careers in accountancy and tax. 

Over the course of the week, students engaged with Partners and Management across all our departments, gaining firsthand knowledge of the profession.  They also explored the critical work of our Service Excellence Team (SET) in areas such as Marketing & Communications, Risk & Quality, Sustainability, and Cybersecurity. 

The highlight of the programme saw students applying their learning by researching, preparing, and presenting projects to Partners and their parents on the final day. 

A huge well done to all the students for their impressive contributions and enthusiasm throughout the week!