The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS) has introduced a new professional designation, Accounting and Business Professional (ABP), in response to growing global demand for skills in accounting, finance and business.

ABP is only the third designation to be created by the institute in its 172-year history, and the first designed to operate alongside its long-established chartered accountant (CA) qualification.

Candidates can complete ABP as an independent qualification or use it as an entry route into chartered status.

According to the ICAS, ABP combines the ICAS Certificate in Accounting and Business (CAB) with a period of relevant practical experience. The structure is designed to combine technical accounting and business learning with application in the workplace.

The programme can be completed in a time frame of roughly four to 12 months. It can be studied through the ICAS digital platform, online workshops or in-centre training.

The accountancy organisation said the designation is suitable for school leavers, graduates and experienced workers who want to formalise or update their skills, without having to commit immediately to the full CA pathway.

Those who choose to progress to the CA qualification receive full exemption from the first level of the CA syllabus, creating a direct transition from ABP to chartered training.

For employers, including Approved Training Offices, small and medium-sized enterprises and larger organisations, ABP is presented as a way to develop early-career talent, strengthen finance teams and support progression, while limiting disruption to day-to-day operations.

The programme has also been structured to meet the criteria for Level 4 apprenticeship levy funding in England, which would allow employers to use levy funds to support participants and reduce direct training costs.

ICAS CEO Gail Boag said: “The ABP represents a significant evolution in how ICAS supports the profession and strengthens the long‑term talent pipeline.

“It offers its own valuable professional identity while also providing an accessible new pathway toward Chartered status.

“What stands the ABP apart is that it recognises both learning and practical experience in core accounting and business acumen – supporting employers, empowering learners and responding directly to the needs of a modern profession.”