Student opportunities

Considering a career in accountancy?

Apply to train with us

Email your completed application form with a copy of an up to date CV to recruitment@hhllp.co.uk

As a top 50 firm of Chartered Accountants we will give you a high degree of involvement with our clients and in-depth responsibility from an early stage. You will gain an understanding of the different types of audit and accountancy work and how they will compliment each other. Our friendly and approachable, working environment is centred on support and teamwork.

What are the progression prospects?

Alex Bottom, Managing Principal

“We are looking for talented individuals, who can make a positive contribution to the firm and are keen to progress. Opportunities for progression are most definitely here for those who can demonstrate their commitment. I began my career at Hillier Hopkins as in ACA Student in 1997 then progressed through the ranks to Audit Principal, serving on the Board of Management and am now Managing Principal.”

Grant Franklin, Principal

“Our firm has grown from our pool of talented students. Students are a vital asset to us and are held in high regard by the whole team. I too began my career here as an ACA student and also progressed to Managing Principal, a post I held for 8 years.”

Progression through our student programme

Our expectation of what a new recruit can deliver is set high. It’s not just about passing exams, it’s an opportunity for you to shine and develop a unique talent of your own. During your three year contract you’ll also have access to the deep knowledge base and experience of our team. We will gather feedback from clients, managers, peer groups and Principals to assess your work, progress, personal talents and contribution to the firm. There are many ways to progress at Hillier Hopkins and we have no hesitation in rewarding merit.

What our students say

“Coming from a science background at university, I did worry that my lack of accountancy knowledge would hold me back. I learnt very quickly at Hillier Hopkins it didn’t matter what my academic background was, I would be supported and encouraged from the start and throughout my training contract. It’s been a great place to start my career.” Will Hughes, ACA Associate

“During my first 3 months I have already had the opportunity to engage in varied tasks across a multitude of client industries. I have experienced nothing but support from fellow students and managers. HH is a friendly firm with a nurturing and motivating environment. I am confident that HH will help me to unlock my full potential and reach my career goals.” Mahra Ahmed, ACA Associate

What is the recruitment process?

We are looking to recruit students with a minimum new tariff 120 UCAS points and an expected 2:1 degree and above.

All Graduate positions will be based from our Watford, Hertfordshire location. Make sure this location is feasible for you. All of our recruitment stages are designed to help both you and us make the right decisions. The stages will take the form of:

Application assessment
Telephone interview
Face to face interviews
Online assessments

Throughout the process, you will meet a variety of key staff who will support you during the student programme.

Complete our application form and send it to us with a copy of your current CV and a covering letter to recruitment@hhllp.co.uk; or by post to Human Resources, Hillier Hopkins, Radius House, 51 Clarendon Road, Watford, Herts, WD17 1HP.

A word from our Learning & Development Manager

"Our student population continues to prove invaluable to the culture of our organisation. We are always overjoyed to see students who maybe start nervously, like rabbits in the headlights, blossom into confident, technically and socially skilful professionals. "

Sandra Pereira

It’s not just about work!

We understand the importance of a work life balance and invite all staff to join in with our social programme throughout the year.

Throughout the year our social secretary organises a variety of events. Previous trips include murder mystery evenings, bowling, ice-skating, theatre trips, and dog racing. We also participate in and encourage fundraising activities and competitions for various charities. Students currently take part in 5 a side football, netball training, golf, cricket matches against other professional firms.

In addition to the above, you’ll be invited to attend the Student Annual Dinner, a black tie affair, with fellow accounting students from across the Home Counties. All staff are invited to the Firm’s Summer & Winter events.

Christmas Bonus, paid in December, equivalent to one week’s salary. (Pro Rata during first year of employment).
Auto Enrolment Pension Scheme subject to eligibility (Employer: 5%; Employee: 3%).
Private medical cover subject to a qualifying period.
Group Income Protection Scheme (non contributory) subject to a qualifying period.
Death In Service scheme cover (4x salary).