Graduate / Chartered Accountant or Chartered Tax Adviser

About Us

Armstrong Watson is on a journey to more than double its turnover by 2030 through disciplined organic growth, attracting outstanding talent, and selective acquisitions. The firm aims to become the most respected adviser to privately owned businesses in the North and the UK, focusing on exceptional service, deep expertise, trusted relationships, and absolute reliability.

We are looking for people who care deeply about:

• Standards and professionalism
• Doing work they are proud of
• Building long-term client relationships
• Being part of a firm with real momentum and intent

If you want to grow with an ambitious, values-driven business serious about excellence, Armstrong Watson offers opportunity and expectation in equal measure.

What you will find here:

• A firm with clear direction and momentum
• Clients who value advice and relationships
• Colleagues who care about doing things properly
• A culture built on Passion, Trust, Humanity and Honesty
• Genuine opportunity to shape your career as the firm grows

The Role

Start your professional services career with one of the UK's leading independent accountancy firms. From day one, you'll work with real clients, gain professional qualifications, and receive the support needed to become a trusted business adviser.

We are looking for our next cohort of Chartered Accountants and Chartered Tax Advisers to start in September 2027. Positions are available across our Carlisle, Glasgow, Newcastle, Leeds, Skipton & Manchester offices.

Throughout our three-year programme, you'll gain hands-on experience with a diverse range of clients while developing the technical, commercial, and professional skills needed to become a trusted business adviser. This journey combines practical experience, professional qualifications, and structured development.

With full study support for the ACA or ATT/CTA qualification, you'll balance professional studies with real client work, applying your learning in practice from day one.

You'll join either our Audit and Assurance (ACA) or Tax (ATT/CTA) team, working alongside experienced colleagues and supporting clients across various sectors. As your confidence and expertise grow, you'll build strong professional relationships and take on increasing responsibility.

Successfully completing our training programme can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities across the firm, including Restructuring & Insolvency, Corporate Finance, and Business Services.

The Candidate

We're looking for motivated individuals who enjoy working collaboratively, are eager to learn, and ready to take on new challenges.

• Qualifications: Candidates must possess either a 2:1 degree or above (achieved or predicted) in any discipline or the full AAT Level 4 qualification. A 2:2 degree may be considered depending on degree subject.
• GCSEs/National Fives: Candidates must hold at least 7 GCSEs at Grade 5 (C) or above (including Maths, English, and at least one Science) or a minimum of 6 National Fives (including Maths, English, and at least one Science) at Grade C or above.
• UCAS Points: A minimum of 96 UCAS points obtained from A Levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications across a maximum of three subjects, or from Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers across a maximum of five subjects.
• Driving Licence & Vehicle: You must possess a full and valid UK Drivers Licence by September 2027 and own a vehicle for business travel. A short grace period for acquiring a vehicle is permitted.
• Eligibility: Successful candidates must meet the eligibility criteria for levy funding.

How to Apply

Apply online with our simple application form and upload a copy of your current CV. Ensure you clearly list subjects studied and grades achieved for all GCSEs and A Levels on your CV, and provide confirmation of your achieved or predicted degree result. All questions on the application form must be answered fully.

Apply for one vacancy only. If you are willing to work in more than one location, this can be discussed at the interview.

All successful candidates will be expected to commence their employment in September 2027. No holidays can be authorised during the first 3 weeks of the role due to a structured training programme.

Sponsorship Visas

Armstrong Watson is not a registered employer and therefore cannot offer sponsorship to candidates.

The Benefits

• A competitive salary with progressive increases
• Fully funded professional qualifications (ACA or ATT/CTA)
• Paid study leave and training support
• A structured development programme, including technical and professional skills
• Support from experienced colleagues, mentors, and training providers
• 21 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with service
• Annual leave purchase scheme
• Health Shield Cash Plan
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Paid professional subscriptions
• Referral and reward schemes
• Regular social events and recognition initiatives