Accountex Manchester is your opportunity to explore how accountants can navigate the next wave of industry change, from MTD and AI to changing client expectations. Join Sage for practical insights, product innovation and real-world solutions designed to help firms work more efficiently and create greater client value. Manchester Central, Stand G7.
By September 2026, the first MTD quarterly update cycle will have revealed what firms are really facing: new workflows, changing client behaviours and fresh pressure points. At the same time, AI, HMRC change, Companies House reform, payroll, benefits in kind and e-invoicing are adding to the pace of change. This keynote will explore how firms can create capacity for what comes next by reducing hidden admin, improving client readiness and building repeatable workflows. Attendees will leave with practical areas to focus on now, and a clearer view of how trusted AI can turn pressure into progress.
15 September 2026 | 11:20–12:00 | Theatre 3.
Lisa Ewens, Nick Williams and Aaron Patrick combine expertise from software innovation, AI strategy and real-world accounting practice to explore how firms can thrive in a rapidly changing profession. Together, they will share practical perspectives on MTD, automation, emerging technologies and evolving client expectations, helping attendees create capacity, improve efficiency and unlock greater value for their clients.
Lisa Ewens
SVP, Small Business, Sage
Nick Williams
VP Product Management AI & Accounting, Sage
Aaron Patrick
Founder, Boffix
E-invoicing is set to play an increasingly important role in the future of accounting, tax and business processes. Join experts from Sage, HMRC and the profession as they explore what is changing, what firms should be preparing for, and how e-invoicing could transform client workflows and compliance. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the opportunities ahead and practical steps they can begin taking today.
07 October 2026 | 10:15 | Evolution Stage.
Adam Prince
Global Head of Product Compliance & Int. Strategy, Sage
Jen Staves
Deputy Director, Strategic Design: Making Tax Digital, HMRC
As clients grow, their expectations of their accountant change. This panel explores how firms of different sizes are helping ambitious businesses navigate increasing complexity, strengthen financial control and unlock sustainable growth. Attendees will gain practical ideas for identifying growth opportunities, expanding advisory services and creating greater value for their clients.
08 October 2026 | 12:15 | Main Stage.
Jack Choppin
Head of Business Transformation, Sage
Kay Monks
Partner, Business Advisory and Accounting, Crowe
Darren Jasper
Owner, Business Squared Limited
Bring us your MTD challenge.
Q1 taught practices a lot - about clients, capacity, workflows, software and what it really takes to make MTD work at scale. So whether you’re working out how to make Q2 run more smoothly, dealing with HMRC’s auto-sign-up programme, tackling a difficult client scenario or simply wondering whether there’s a better way of doing something, bring the question to us.
No presentation. No sales pitch. Just practical conversations with people who understand MTD and accountancy practice. We’ll share what we’re seeing across the profession, what other practices are learning and practical ideas you can take back to your firm.
And you’ll be able to pick up our refreshed MTD Playbook, bringing together the latest guidance, practical actions and insights from accountants and bookkeepers navigating MTD right now.
Find the MTD Clinic on the Sage stand.