This year’s intake is the largest since the firm was established almost 90 years ago and is part of its commitment to ‘grow its own’ leaders. The 93 recruits will be spread across Johnston Carmichael’s 13 offices.

The group includes graduates, who will undertake training to become qualified accountants, interns, and school leavers joining via the firm’s innovative JC Futures scheme. The four-to-six-year training opportunity offers school leavers a route to full qualification as an accountant.

Martin Osler, chief people officer, Johnston Carmichael, said: “I’d like to welcome each and every one of our new student recruits to Johnston Carmichael. It’s extremely encouraging that we have secured such a large intake of talented young individuals amid a very tight labour market.

“Recruiting, retaining and developing our people is a top priority for the firm as we seek to continue the high performance and high-quality services that distinguish us in the marketplace.

“I hope the young people who have joined us have a wonderful experience as they take their first steps towards developing their careers. And who knows, some of them may be running the firm in the not-too-distant future. A few months ago, we appointed a new vice-chair, Lynne Walker, who joined the firm 17 years ago as a newly qualified accountant, so nothing is impossible for people with drive, determination and great skills.”

Last year Johnston Carmichael welcomed almost 70 students in its summer intake, before going on to hire a further 30 throughout the remainder of the year.

Among those who joined last year is Gemma Mulgrew, who was appointed through the JC Futures scheme after leaving Duncanrig Secondary School in Glasgow. JC Futures is a four to six-year training opportunity which provides a direct pathway for school or college leavers to become fully qualified accountants, and Gemma’s appointment was part of a new partnership with Glasgow Caledonian University and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.

Gemma, who is training in the firm’s restructuring team, said: “I came to Johnston Carmichael fresh out of secondary school at 17. It was so different from my experiences at school - everyone is treated in such a friendly and professional way regardless of age or experience.

“At first, it was nerve-racking, but I soon realised there was always someone willing to give a helping hand and help you learn.

“I chose Johnston Carmichael as it offers a varied number of great opportunities within the firm. My main career ambition is to get my accounting qualification and progress within the business.

“I would recommend other school leavers interested in an accountancy career consider applying at Johnston Carmichael. It’s so different from a classroom environment – I find it so rewarding in terms of the knowledge and life experiences I have been able to gain. If you are interested in a career in accountancy, apply to Johnston Carmichael. It doesn’t matter if you are a school leaver, student, or graduate. There is a path for everyone to succeed.”

Graduates have until Friday 28 October 2022 to apply for 2023 roles.