Haines Watts welcomes new cohort of graduate trainees

Leading accountancy firm, Haines Watts, has continued to strengthen its Leeds team with three new graduate appointments since September to help support its growing client base. The firm has a long history of training and investing in the next generation of accountants, working alongside local universities and supporting them with their progression through the various accounting qualifications.

Haines Watts has built strong relationships with universities across the Yorkshire region over the years, actively participating in seminars about the accountancy profession, attending careers fairs, offering student placements, and hosting CV writing workshops.

Having completed her placement year at Haines Watts, which she undertook whilst studying at the University of Huddersfield, Charlotte Holland has joined the team as a trainee on a permanent basis.

Speaking on her new role, Charlotte said: “I really enjoy how social the office is. During my placement I enjoyed the variety of work I was given and I am looking forward to gaining more responsibility, such as leading audits.”

Following the same path, Afif Ikmal and James Helme, joined the firm as placement students whilst also studying at the same university. These graduate appointments come at the same time as Zara Choudary joins the team as a Tax Senior.

Commenting on the new appointments, Managing Partner, James Sutton said: “Working alongside the universities in our region is something our team have always been really passionate about, and it’s as equally rewarding for us as it is for the students. It’s always great to be able to offer quality opportunities to students and over the years it’s certainly paid dividends, with several team members joining us through this route.

“I’m thrilled to have welcomed Afif, James and Zara to the team, and to have Charlotte onboard with us on a full-time basis. In the wake of the pandemic, we’re now starting to see business owners recover and thrive, and by strengthening our team, we’ll continue to act as a pillar of support to owner-managers in our region, throughout the months and years to come.”