Accountex Summit Manchester 2026: Bigger, Bolder and Built for the North 

On 15 September, Manchester Central held the seventh edition of Accountex Summit Manchester, incorporating the FD Show.  

The one-day event continued to deliver on its reputation as a must-attend fixture in the profession’s calendar, bringing together over 3,200 visitors, exhibitors and speakers for a day of learning, networking and practical insight. 

Portfolio Director, Caroline Hobden, said: “Although the Manchester edition is seen as Accountex London’s younger sibling, the momentum around it just keeps growing. The enthusiasm and energy from everyone this year has been incredible. It’s clear that the accounting and finance community in the North is stronger and more connected than ever.” 

‘It saved so much time being able to compare different software side by side’ 

135+ software and service providers showcased their products, covering everything from audit and AML to capital allowances and cash flow forecasting. 

Attendees were able to receive live demos, compare providers, and discover tools to help their practices and businesses thrive. 

“There is no way that you could do this much research compared to the amount you could do in one day online. Not only would you get bored, but you’re able to speak to vendors, get a feel for the people you’re buying from, and understand which software your peers like to work with. I think that’s really invaluable.” Commented Billie Mcloughlin, AIccountancy. 

‘A very worthwhile day – and plenty of ideas to take back into practice’ 

The CPD-accredited seminar programme took place across 5 stages, with topics covering everything from AI and automation to tax updates and future talent.  

Sessions discussed how AI can help streamline processes, save time and add more value for clients, alongside honest conversations about the risks and challenges that come with adoption. 

A common theme across the show floor was that the real opportunity isn’t technology replacing people, but using it to remove repetitive work and free up time for analysis, judgement and better decision-making. 

“I think it’s fair to say there’s a lot of mixed feelings going on in the accountancy world at the moment. There’s nervousness about AI and jobs being lost and the role of accountants being replaced. There’s also huge excitement about the transformative power of AI and what it can do for the customer journey, for data and insights. And Accountex brings all of that together. The disruptors, the trail blazers, the established market leaders are having these conversations in the same room, sharing ideas and looking ahead. So it’s a must attend for anybody that cares about this industry.” Said Alice Clementi, Co-founder and CEO, Charterpath. 

‘I went in expecting a useful event, but I left genuinely inspired and energised’ 

Amongst the vibrant atmosphere, buzzing conversations and packed theatres, there were plenty of new features to explore.  

For any questions around AI and finance, attendees visited the AI Helpdesk, in partnership with GenFinance.AI, to get their questions answered.  

The Showcase Stage, sponsored by Bright, had a full schedule of quick-fire overviews of some of the technology and products on show.  

At the Growth Skills Hub, in partnership with Mel, attendees could join expert-led, small group sessions to build the skills that turn personal development into business growth, from leading change and client engagement to networking, referrals and cross-firm collaboration.  

The popular After Party returned, providing a relaxed setting with live music for visitors, speakers and exhibitors to catch up, share experiences, and unwind after a busy day. 

‘Having a dedicated space for FDs made all the difference – this is exactly what the North needed’ 

After its successful at Accountex London in May, this year marked the first time the FD Show joined forces with Accountex Summit Manchester, bringing a dedicated finance leadership experience to the North. 

Built specifically for Finance Directors, CFOs and accountants working in industry, the FD Show gave finance professionals from across the North their own dedicated space and programme.  

Across the FD Show theatre, the day’s programme placed AI adoption and its practical application in finance firmly at the center, with sessions exploring everything from Copilot and agentic AI in day-to-day finance operations to cloud ERP transformation and the automation of routine tasks like reconciliations.  

Speakers from across the industry including Microsoft, SAP, Mhance and GenFinance.AI, shared real-world insight into how finance teams are putting AI to work, while other sessions turned to the bigger strategic picture, from the realities of scaling a fractional finance business to the M&A opportunity created by an approaching wave of baby boomer business exits. A CFO reality check panel rounded out the day, bringing together senior finance voices to discuss cost pressures and economic resilience heading into 2027. 

The FD Show is set to become a permanent fixture at Accountex Summit Manchester, giving senior finance leaders across the North a dedicated home within the wider event for years to come. 

‘I wouldn’t miss Accountex for the world’ 

With its unbeatable mix of technology, CPD, education and networking, Accountex Summit Manchester is back on 14 September 2027.  

For more information and to join the mailing list, visit: accountexmanchester.com 

Mark your calendars: Accountex London and the FD Show 2027 

Accountex’s momentum continues into 2027, with Accountex London and the FD Show returning to Excel London on 12-13 May. 

Register your interest here. 

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