IPA 2025 membership and licence renewals now open

Paul Davis, President

Dear Members,

I hope this message finds you well. It is with great pleasure that I write as the recently appointed IPA President. As I embark on this role, I am looking forward to the year ahead working with CEO Paul Smith, the Board and Senior Leadership Team, and getting out to meet you at our regional events. The IPA’s commitment to advocating for its members and the insolvency profession remains firm as ever, as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of our industry and matters such as the future of insolvency regulation, potential changes to the personal insolvency framework and the fast-moving world of anti-money laundering and fraud concerns.

I recently hosted the sold-out Manchester Roadshow, where I had the opportunity to meet many of our members in the North West. These events provide invaluable learning opportunities to keep up to date with the most pressing issues across the sector as well as a platform to network and make new contacts. It was inspiring to witness the passion and expertise that you bring to the table. Building on this momentum, we will soon be heading to Leeds on 5th July, where I will also be hosting alongside speakers from the Insolvency Service, the Bank of England, Eversheds Sutherland, the EY Foundation, the IPA regulatory team and more. Read about the Leeds programme, as well as the other upcoming events in the series, and book places here.

I also want to draw your attention to the alarming misuse of the COVID loan schemes that we are witnessing. As Insolvency Practitioners, it is vital that we possess a comprehensive understanding of Bounce Back Loan (BBL) and Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS) qualifying criteria and know how to verify compliance with their terms. Aspects such as sourcing the original application form, the impact of BBL and CBILS declarations on accepting appointments, tracking the use of borrowed funds and reporting misuses are of utmost importance. We will be covering these key matters and more, including practical suggestions for the recovery of misapplied sums, at the next IPA Learning event on 11th July. I highly recommend that you attend for this important update. You can book your place here.

As we continue our journey together through uncertain economic and political times, I am confident that our collective efforts will further strengthen the insolvency profession and foster a resilient environment for all. I am committed to serving you, our valued members, and ensuring that your voices are heard.

Best wishes,

Paul Davis