
Craig Burton
Partner
Choosing what’s next isn’t always easy
If you're in your final year at university, you're most likely juggling coursework, exams, deadlines, and a dozen decisions about your future. This can often feel overwhelming even before people start asking you “What’s next?”.
The good news is choosing a career in accountancy could be one of the best decisions you ever make. It’s a profession that offers security, progression, and the chance to build something of your own. Whether you're aiming to rise through the ranks and become a partner, or become a Chief Financial Officer in industry, starting a career in accountancy gives you the platform to achieve this.
Here’s what a career in accountancy offers:
- Strong demand and long-term job security
- Clear progression routes and professional development
- The opportunity to become a partner or run your own firm
- Broad career opportunities once you have qualified
- Real job satisfaction from helping clients solve problems
- A place in a wider professional network
But if you're already considering this path, the next question is: where should you start?
Why start your career at Hawsons?
At Hawsons, we don’t just offer a job. We offer you an environment to grow and develop, a team that cares, and a genuine interest in where you want your career to go. We’ve been training accountants for generations, and while the profession has evolved, our belief in supporting young talent hasn’t changed.
Here’s what makes training with us different:
You’re trusted early and supported throughout
From day one, we will encourage you to take ownership of your work. But that doesn’t mean being thrown in at the deep end. You’ll be supported every step of the way by experienced staff and approachable partners who know you by name and want to see you succeed.
It’s not just client work either. We’re here to support you through your exams and qualifications too and we use one of the UK’s leading tuition providers First Intuition.
You get variety and real-world experience
We’re proud to be an independent firm. That means we work with a wide range of clients, often with deep roots in their local communities. As a trainee, you’ll get exposure to different sectors, different business models, and different ways of working. It keeps the job interesting and helps you figure out what you enjoy most.
Furthermore, because we’re a full-service firm, there’s real flexibility in how your career can develop once you qualify. Take Jack Parker, for example. He started with us as an Audit Senior and later moved into our Corporate Finance team, and now works as a Corporate Finance Manager. It’s a great example of how, at Hawsons, you’re not boxed into one route, and you can shape your career around what interests you most.
A better balance
As an independent firm we can offer a more balanced lifestyle. As you’ll know your clients well and have a close working relationship with them, it’s easier to plan and manage your workload. That means fewer surprises and less pressure for long hours which makes a big difference when you’re studying too.
Local feel, global reach
We may be an independent firm, but we’re also part of HLB International, a global network of independent accountancy practices. It means you get the best of both worlds: personal, hands-on experience at Hawsons, and the global perspective and connections of an international network.
A culture you can feel
People stay at Hawsons because of our culture. We’re a friendly, collaborative team that supports one another, celebrates progress, and makes time to enjoy ourselves along the way.
We hold regular staff socials including out annual day out. Where everyone is given the opportunity to learn more about the firm as well as a chance to relax and enjoy being part of our team.
We genuinely believe in what we do, and we look for people who want to grow with us by embodying our values, purpose and vision (see below):
Our Values, Purpose and Vision
Our Core Values
Our Purpose
We exist to deliver long-term client success by providing proactive advice, sharing our extensive expertise and embracing change. Through forward thinking, we encourage growth and create opportunities.
Our approachable team are at the heart of our service, which is why we invest in them to develop and empower the next generation of accountants and advisers. We create a supportive environment where everyone feels welcome, valued and respected.
We are, and will continue to be, an integral part of our local communities and wider global network.
Our Vision
Working together to be the ‘go-to’ independent firm of advisors, providing quality services and striving for innovation to support continuous growth.
Through generations and changing times, staying true to our values and responsibilities will make our vision a reality.
Thinking of applying?
If you're considering starting your career in accountancy and want to be part of a firm that sees your potential, take a look at our graduate opportunities.
Watch the video below to find out what its like working at Hawsons from some of our current team:
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