Future Accountant: Kerry, Audit Associate

Kerry's story

Choosing to take the alternative route into accountancy, Kerry started her career through an apprenticeship rather than university. Here, she shares how she’s building a rewarding career in audit – and why being curious, authentic, and supported makes all the difference.

Starting at the firm: Emily, Audit Associate

Emily's story

Emily Dark, one of our Audit Associates, reflects on her first two years at Grant Thornton — from studying for her ICAS exams to representing Scotland in international hockey. She shares how the firm’s culture empowered her to thrive both professionally and personally, offering insights to help future trainees feel confident as they begin their careers and explore the opportunities ahead.

Future Accountant: Yad, Audit Associate

Yad's story

Yad’s path into audit began with a BTEC in Business and a job as a line chef, experiences that sparked his interest in teamwork, problem-solving, and learning by doing. Now an apprentice at Grant Thornton, he reflects on how feedback, support, and a collaborative culture have helped him grow into a professional member of the audit team.

From Ignite to an Audit Trainee

Evie Hawkes shares her journey from attending the Ignite work experience programme to becoming an Audit Trainee at Grant Thornton. She reflects on the supportive culture, friendships formed, early client exposure and the challenges of balancing work and study — and offers practical advice for anyone considering an apprenticeship.

Applying to Ignite: Advice from those who’ve done it

Not sure if Ignite is right for you? Past participants share their experiences, advice and the skills they gained — from confidence to real insight into working life.

Syndie: How My Audit Background Shapes My Work in Inclusion

Syndie shares how her career journey from audit and tax to Inclusion and Diversity helps her drive practical, evidence‑based inclusion across Grant Thornton.

Award‑winning apprentices: from potential to performance

Joe Heavens and Ashley Chan on turning early‑career curiosity and ownership into award‑winning success.

Thriving in a non-linear career

Deb's story

When Debs Mander joined Grant Thornton, she wasn’t the typical trainee you might imagine. She joined later in life, already with a successful first career under her belt, and carrying responsibilities and experiences that had shaped her.

Jo on trust, stretch and high performance

Jo's story

From audit trainee to director in CFO Solutions, Jo Crowhurst has built a career on relationships, stretch assignments and steady delivery. Here, she talks about scaling a fintech engagement by embracing opportunity.

Nana Yaw’s mission: Men's minds matter

Nana Yaw's story

In a culture where men are often expected to stay silent about their struggles, Nana Yaw is using his voice to challenge stigma, share his experiences, and encourage others to do the same. He’s on a mission to help normalise conversations around wellbeing – especially for men from ethnic minority backgrounds. Here’s his story.

Future Accountant: Nirunthan, Advisory Associate

Nirunthan's story

Nirunthan (Niru) joined the firm as a placement student during his university years. After graduating, he returned to the firm as an advisory associate in the Transactions Advisory Services team – a move that reflects his passion for applying accounting skills in a commercial, project-driven environment. Niru shares his experience as a placement student, including the challenges he overcame and the culture that shaped his development.

Work and connection: Lola’s start in Real Estate Tax

Omolola's story

Lola joined Grant Thornton as a member of the Real Estate Tax team. Originally from Nigeria, she brings a global perspective, a passion for meaningful work, and a deep appreciation for community – both inside and outside the firm. In just eight months, she’s already made an impact, not only through her work but also by helping others find their place at the firm. Here’s her story.