Hazlewoods has recruited 23 students and graduates since opening its Cardiff office in autumn 2024, the accountancy and business advisory firm has announced. The intake comprises six 12-month placement students, 15 graduate hires and two integrated work placements, marking a significant deepening of the company’s ties with Cardiff University.
The recruitment drive builds on a relationship that has seen the firm maintain a presence at Cardiff Business School careers events for a number of years. Across the wider business, at least 25 employees — including three partners — are now Cardiff University alumni, illustrating the long-term career pathways available.
Growth strategy and the Cardiff decision
The new office forms part of Hazlewoods’ wider UK growth strategy, with access to local talent cited as a key factor in the decision to expand into the Welsh capital. The firm, which employs around 600 people principally based in Cheltenham, also has a growing presence in Bristol. It specialises in accounting and advisory services for both corporate and private clients.
Bruce Black, corporate tax director at Hazlewoods, said: “Cardiff has always stood out as a city with a strong pipeline of talent, thanks to its universities. When we made the decision to open an office here, access to high-quality graduates was a major consideration.
“What we’re seeing now is that decision paying off. We’ve built a strong relationship with Cardiff University and are already welcoming talented students and graduates into the business, some of whom will go on to become the future leaders of the firm.”
Testimonials from graduates and the business school
Among the new recruits is Katie Hiscox, an ACA trainee and recent Cardiff University graduate. She said: “Starting my career with Hazlewoods has given me real hands-on experience from day one. The support and development opportunities have been invaluable, and it’s great to be part of a firm that’s investing in talent from Cardiff.”
Andy Harris, a partner at Hazlewoods, is himself a Cardiff Business School alumnus, having graduated with a degree in Accounting in June 1996. He said: “I’m looking forward to celebrating our 30-year reunion this July. It’s particularly rewarding to see a new generation of Cardiff graduates joining the business, reflecting the strength of our longstanding relationship with Cardiff Business School and the quality of talent it continues to produce.”
Professor Qingwei Wang, head of accounting and finance at Cardiff Business School, welcomed the firm’s deepening commitment. “We’re delighted to see Hazlewoods deepening its commitment to Cardiff and creating such valuable opportunities for our students and graduates. Strong partnerships with employers are essential in helping students make the transition from university into meaningful careers, and it is especially encouraging to see our graduates recognised for the talent, skills and fresh perspectives they bring to the workplace,” he said.
