Champion Accountants invests in future talent with new trainee cohort in Chester, Preston, and Blackpool
Champion Accountants has welcomed five ambitious recruits to its group-wide trainee programme, marking the start of their careers in accountancy, audit and tax.
Oliver Kirby, Lucy Roberts, and Ethan Bartley join Champion’s Chester practice, Jacob Howarth takes up his role in Preston, and Harley Rutherford begins his journey at the firm’s Blackpool office. Together, they will take on Audit & Accounts Trainee, Accounts Trainee, and Tax & Accounts Trainee roles.
From their very first week, the trainees will gain hands-on experience, not just shadowing colleagues but actively contributing to real client projects. Alongside this practical exposure, they’ll study towards professional qualifications, including AAT, ATT, and ACCA, supported by tailored mentorship that blends technical learning with client-facing skills.
The programme is designed to give trainees a rounded foundation for success – equipping them with accounting, audit and tax expertise, as well as the communication, collaboration, and decision-making skills needed to thrive in the profession long term.
Oliver, from Hendre, North Wales, was drawn by Champion’s clear career pipeline, including opportunities to progress towards certified status.
Lucy, from Chester, said she is looking forward to taking on new challenges in a collaborative environment, while Ethan, from Wrexham, explained: “When looking at different opportunities after college, Champion really stood out to me. The job they were offering matched what I wanted to do when I’m older, and the culture here is quite unique, which I really liked.”
Jacob, from Hesketh Bank, praised the warm welcome he’s already received, while Harley, from Lytham St Annes, was attracted to Champion’s modern way of working and its strong work-life balance ethos.
Jacob added: “I’ve always loved accounting since picking it at A Level, and Champion offered the ideal programme to help me work my way to becoming a fully qualified accountant. From my first interview, I knew I’d love it here – the staff are welcoming, friendly, and committed to supporting me as I learn the skills I need to thrive.”
Champion has built a strong reputation for nurturing home-grown talent, with many of its partners and senior professionals having started their own journeys as trainees. The programme blends formal study with mentoring, practical experience, and ongoing development, with many past trainees now advancing into senior roles and guiding today’s recruits.
Group Managing Partner, Ged Cosgrove, said: “We’re delighted to welcome this year’s outstanding trainee cohort. Each of them brings their own goals, ambitions, and ways of learning, and it’s our responsibility to provide flexible, individualised support that helps them succeed.
“Our trainee programme has always been about more than technical skills – it’s about creating the space for young professionals to challenge themselves, test their knowledge, and excel. It’s a pleasure to see so many of our former trainees now in senior positions, passing on their insights as mentors.
“We look forward to supporting Oliver, Lucy, Ethan, Jacob, and Harley as they take their first steps in the industry and begin building long-lasting, rewarding careers in accountancy.”
