Members of the Cayman Islands Institute of Professional Accountants (CIIPA) met on 12 March 12 for the organisation’s annual general meeting, electing new officers and council members for the 2026–2027 term.
The meeting, a key date in the institute’s calendar, serves as a forum to review the past year and set priorities for the accounting profession in the Cayman Islands. CIIPA oversees the profession locally and is a member of the International Federation of Accountants.
Laurie Mernett was elected president, succeeding after two years as vice president. Marlon Bispath was elected vice president, and James George was elected secretary, according to the organisation.
“It’s truly an honour to take on the role of President,” Mernett said, adding that the institute plays a role not only for accountants but for the wider financial services sector. He said the profession relies on trust and high standards, which CIIPA helps maintain as the industry evolves.
Members also elected 15 individuals to the CIIPA Council for the upcoming term. The council includes Daniel Florek, Edward Gwekwete, Craig Smith, Francois Lamontagne, Siew Ben Leung, Adonis Samson, Marina-Adriana Caruntu, Peter Small, Yuri Williams, Ewan McGill, Rennie Khan and Rosamond Nolan, along with the newly elected officers.
The AGM also recognised outgoing council members and former presidents Mike Mannisto and Serge Berube, who stepped down after a combined 33 years of service. Both were presented with gifts in acknowledgment of their contributions, the institute said.
CIIPA, which has operated for more than 50 years, said it will continue focusing on professional standards, regulation and supporting the development of the accounting sector in the Cayman Islands.
