Charlotte Richards

I joined Kingston Smith in September 2009, after graduating from Manchester University earlier that summer, where I studied Management, Accounting and Finance.I had previously worked in a small accountancy firm during university holidays, which inspired me to apply to a company that offered the ACA training scheme.

I applied to Kingston Smith because the size of the firm meant that I would get both a lot of support and experience during the initial years.For example, as I now enter my second year, I am being given the opportunity to take on the responsibility to lead audits. Another advantage is that I am able to focus not only on audit work, but also preparing accounts and working in the tax department, which all provide me with a much wider understanding of the industry.

Over the past year I have attended many Kingston Smith events, including a boat party on the Thames, wine tasting and been involved in a broomball competition.Alongside the current trainees, I have joined local tag rugby and netball leagues which provide numerous opportunities to socialise outside of work and occasionally pop to the pub for a post-match celebratory drink!