Professional core
The professional core is the continuing group of essential employees in Handy’s shamrock organisation. It retains the expertise, organisational knowledge and coordination needed for the business to function. Core status describes its role in the workforce model, rather than membership of a professional accounting body or a person’s level of technical knowledge. Decisions about its size should consider continuity, control, skills and dependence on outside providers.
Worked example
A consulting firm keeps experienced consultants and client relationship managers as its core while purchasing specialist translation services externally. Losing the core’s client knowledge could disrupt delivery even if contractors remain available.
Common mistake
Do not define the professional core as a body of professional knowledge. It is a group of people, and it is not necessarily identical to senior management.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | BT | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |
| FIA | FBT | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |