The scheme is open to graduates with any degree and roles are available throughout the UK says the company, which this year recruited record numbers of new employees.

In 2018 620 new audit graduates joined KPMG, a 36% increase over the previous year. In London, the number of audit graduates increased by 30%, whilst regionally there was an increase of 42%. The 2019 intake will start with the firm in September next year.

Michelle Hinchliffe, head of audit for KPMG in the UK, said the firm was keen to recruit from a diverse pool of talent:

‘Being an auditor requires a specific set of skills, but not all of these may be what you might typically imagine. Numeracy is still hugely important, but we also look for certain capabilities which are not measured by academic achievements. The modern auditor is part accountant, part detective and part data scientist so we are on the lookout for natural curiosity, independent thinking and a keen eye for detail. We are committed to boosting the diversity of our graduate intake. Due to the sheer variety of our work and the need for different perspectives, it is crucial that we have diverse teams who bring varied life experiences through the door.’

She added that graduates interested in high tech careers should not discount accountancy.

‘Those who love technology should also take a close look at a career in audit. We are on the lookout for expert coders, data analysts and tech specialists. For those who don’t have those skills yet but want to learn, we provide world class on-the-job training in our growing Data Science Centre of Excellence.

‘The advantage of our graduate programme is you get all the training on the job so if your degree is, for example, in English literature or politics but you think you have the skills necessary – we want to hear from you.’

Michelle Quest, head of tax, pensions and legal services for KPMG in the UK, said the changing business environment made accountancy a dynamic, collaborative role.

‘A career in tax, pensions and legal services offers the opportunity to be working side by side with clients on the issues that are at the heart of running a successful business,’ she said.

‘The 2019 graduate intake will be working in a professional services environment like never before. Digital transformation, revised business operating models and employment working practices are changing both the market and the ways in which we – and our clients – work. We are looking for people who are willing to embrace these challenges and adapt with them to expand their knowledge and help our organisation be a trusted advisor to our clients.’

KPMG say that additional programmes for consulting, technology, deal advisory and business services will be opening later in the year.

To apply for KPMG’s 2019 audit, tax, pensions and legal services graduate vacancies, visit the KPMG Careers page

Report by Rob Munro