Thames Valley: KPMG opens graduate programme for all subjects

KPMG in the UK has opened applications for its 2019 graduate programmes for the audit and tax, pensions and legal services practices. Roles are available in the Thames Valley as well as the rest of the UK, and graduates from all subjects are invited to apply.

Michelle Hinchliffe, head of audit for KPMG in the UK, said of the launch: “We are extremely excited to be opening our graduate programmes for 2019, and we look forward to welcoming more talented young people into our firm. Being an auditor requires a specific set of skills, but not all of these may be what you might typically imagine.

“Numeracy is still hugely important, but we also look for certain capabilities which are not measured by academic achievements. The modern auditor is part accountant, part detective and part data scientist so we are on the lookout for natural curiosity, independent thinking and a keen eye for detail. We are committed to boosting the diversity of our graduate intake. Due to the sheer variety of our work and the need for different perspectives, it is crucial that we have diverse teams who bring varied life experiences through the door.

“Those who love technology should also take a close look at a career in audit. We are on the lookout for expert coders, data analysts and tech specialists. For those who don’t have those skills yet but want to learn, we provide world class on-the-job training in our growing Data Science Centre of Excellence.

“The advantage of our graduate programme is you get all the training on the job so if your degree is, for example, in English literature or politics but you think you have the skills necessary – we want to hear from you.”

Andrew Morgan, senior partner for KPMG in the Thames Valley, added: “In Reading and the Thames Valley we have a seen a significant growth in opportunities for graduates across our audit and tax, pensions and legal practices.  We are continuing to attract new clients who want access to the full range of services available from a large regional office like Reading, and we are also finding that our existing clients require advice across many fields as they continue to take advantage of the vibrant local economy in the Thames Valley.  Our graduates play an important part in supporting our clients’ growth aspirations and we look forward to welcoming an enthusiastic cohort in 2019.”

2018 saw KPMG welcome 620 new audit graduates in to the firm, representing a 36% increase on the class of 2017. In London, the number of audit graduates increased by 30%, whilst regionally there was an increase of 42%, highlighting the firm’s commitment to audit across the UK, not just in the capital. The 2019 intake will start with the firm in September next year.

Michelle Quest, head of tax, pensions and legal services for KPMG in the UK, commented: “A career in tax, pensions and legal services offers the opportunity to be working side by side with clients on the issues that are at the heart of running a successful business.”

“The 2019 graduate intake will be working in a professional services environment like never before. Digital transformation, revised business operating models and employment working practices are changing both the market and the ways in which we – and our clients – work. We are looking for people who are willing to embrace these challenges and adapt with them to expand their knowledge and help our organisation be a trusted advisor to our clients.”