Conversations from the ICAEW's Annual Reception

The Corporate Finance Faculty’s Annual Reception, one of the ICAEW’s most high-profile and prestigious in-person events, took place this November at London’s historic Fishmongers’ Hall. 

Representing Arbuthnot Commercial Asset Based Lending, Tim Hawkins, Managing Director and Andrew Rutherford, Commercial Director, share their insights on the event’s key themes and discussions. 

Excellence in corporate development 

Andrew presented the ICAEW Corporate Development Award, stating: 

“It was an honour to present this prestigious award to Rachel Coulson, Deputy CFO of Pearson, a leading lifelong learning company, alongside Alistair Brew, Chair of the ICAEW Corporate Finance Faculty. He continued: “As an asset-based lender committed to supporting growth, we recognise that success extends far beyond individual transactions. It is bout driving meaningful, lasting outcomes for all stakeholders. This accolade highlights and celebrates excellence in M&A strategy and Pearson’s remarkable achievements in artificial intelligence and their focus on sustainable value creation make them a truly deserving recipient of this award.” 

AI: Balancing innovation and governance 

Lord Clement-Jones, a founding member of the OECD Parliamentary Group on AI and chair of the House of Lords Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence, delivered a thought-provoking keynote on how AI is reshaping both the profession and society. He emphasised AI’s transformative potential while outlining the critical need for responsible governance and international regulation. 

“His perspective on advancing AI innovation while addressing its challenges struck a chord with us,” Tim remarked. “The corporate finance community shares this commitment to enabling sustainable growth and innovation while maintaining robust ethical standards.” 

Insights into industry trends 

Discussions at the reception revealed a positive outlook for M&A activity heading into 2025. 

“Corporate finance is all about trusted relationships, and there is no substitute for face-to-face conversations,” Andrew said. “What stood out were the discussions around deal-making. Many expect M&A activity to pick up by 2025, from acquisitions and management buyouts to corporate carve-outs and exits. Companies with strong fundamentals are attracting interest, with pent-up demand on the sell-side and private equity firms still aiming to deploy substantial dry powder.” 

Driving progress in corporate finance 

ICAEW Chief Executive Alan Vallance highlighted the faculty’s 2024 milestones. 

“The release of new guidelines on cyber security, earn-outs, and financial due diligence demonstrates the faculty’s ongoing leadership,” said Tim. “Through its comprehensive events programme and proactive policy contributions, including responses to election-related consultations, the faculty has delivered significant impact throughout the year. Looking ahead, it is poised to sustain this momentum into 2025, with an ambitious agenda designed to further support the corporate finance community.”

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