BDO, the professional services firm, is making a significant investment in the future of the North of England with the appointment of 81 new trainees across its Yorkshire and North West offices. This move is part of a larger nationwide intake of over 600 new trainees and underscores the firm's commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.

The new hires, who are a mix of school-leaver apprentices, university graduates, and industrial placement students, will be located in the firm's key Northern hubs. Twenty-eight trainees will join the Leeds office, while 53 will be based in the Manchester and Liverpool offices. This strategic focus on the region highlights the importance of the North's economy, which is home to a diverse range of sectors, from finance and technology to advanced manufacturing and creative industries.

The firm's regional managing partners welcomed the new cohort, praising their ambition and curiosity. This investment in early career pathways is a core part of BDO's strategy, which includes initiatives aimed at improving social mobility and increasing diversity within the accountancy profession. The firm is a founding member of Access Accountancy and has a range of insight programmes designed to open up opportunities for students from all backgrounds.

One such trainee, Dani Trickett from the Leeds office, joined BDO's apprenticeship programme in 2022 and is due to qualify in 2026. She highlighted the benefits of the apprenticeship model, stating: "The first-hand experience you get through an apprenticeship is so beneficial... working, alongside studying, towards my qualification has given me a wide range of skills." Her journey from school to a professional qualification exemplifies the long-term career opportunities available through these pathways, a model that is gaining traction as a viable alternative to a traditional university route in the UK.

As the North of England's economy continues to grow, attracting and retaining skilled talent is crucial. By investing in its apprenticeship and graduate programmes, BDO is not only strengthening its own workforce but also contributing to the development of a skilled, professional talent pool for the entire Northern Powerhouse.