Partner relationship: Xero
Xero is a powerful all-in-one cloud-based accounting solution for business. Founded in New Zealand in 2006, the company was initially set up to help small businesses with all aspects of accounting, including record keeping, making compliance easier and automating tasks such as invoicing and reporting. Now, as an employer of more than 3,000 people worldwide, with more than 2 million subscribers, Xero has the prestigious accolade of being named the world’s Most Innovative Growth Company, by Forbes, in both 2014 and 2015.
A global entity, Xero’s accounting software brings people together across any device, helping accountants and bookkeepers build trusted relationships with small business clients through collaboration. They’re one of the world’s largest cloud accounting organisations, supporting finance professionals in both corporate and practice settings.
At ACCA, from the feedback we’ve seen from future talent, SMPs and our corporate associates, it has become clear that there are not enough ‘cloud accountants’ to service the market’s needs. As a partner on our AccXelerator programme, Xero helps accelerate this growth area within SMPs and develops innovative cloud accounting capabilities to adapt to emerging challenges and exploit these new opportunities.
Our global education team has been working closely with Xero to provide cloud-based educational rollouts to our students, while our data and insights team is keen to access more timely business data via the company’s technology. Xero consistently supports the accountancy profession, and this is something that is recognised and appreciated by our members. Our partnership with Xero is in its early stages as SMPs begin to learn about the new software and look for help to manage the shift from more traditional ways of working towards these streamlined technical solutions.
For ACCA, a partnership with Xero reflects our understanding of the progress and changes unfolding within the finance profession. It demonstrates to our members that we are forward-thinking, future proof, and fully embracing this exciting new era of cloud-based accounting solutions.