AN accountant from Radstock has been honoured as ‘Rising Professional of the Year’ at the inaugural Institute of Financial Accountants (IFA) Awards in London.

The IFA Awards, held on June 26 in London, recognise outstanding talent, dedication, and innovation across the accountancy profession in three categories – IFA Member of the Year, sponsored by Equals Money; IFA Practice of the Year, sponsored by Capium; and the Rising Professional of the Year award, sponsored by EB Now.

Andrew Coombs from Kings Oak Accountancy Services Ltd in Radstock, Somerset was named Rising Professional of the Year, impressing the judges with impressive testimonials and a clear balance of progression and innovation in his role as a practicing accountant.

The awards celebrated the exceptional dedication, expertise, and innovation of the winners in their professional field and community in the last 12 months. Muhammad Bilal was recognised as IFA Member of the Year. The Yorkshire-based professional impressed the judges with how his practice-based ethos supports his mental health advocacy and noted his influence in the Yorkshire region.

The awards formed part of the IFA’s 2025 Annual Conference, bringing together leading voices in accountancy, business, and finance. Winners were chosen by a panel of expert judges from across the industry based on their achievements and impact, plus their alignment with the IFA’s values of integrity, service, and professional excellence.

Jonathan Barber, executive director, said: “It was wonderful to celebrate our members’ efforts during what has been a pivotal and challenging 12 months for the industry. Financial leadership has never been more important, and this year’s winners represent the best in our profession — innovative, ethical, and forward-thinking professionals who go above and beyond for their clients and communities.”

For more information about the IFA, visit ifa.org.uk