With demand for skilled finance professionals continuing to rise, the programme connects local trainees to ICAS’ UK and global network, ensuring stronger support as they build careers in the Highlands.

Created by ICAS, the initiative combines global reach with a growing local presence. It strengthens peer networks across the region, giving students opportunities to share experiences, exchange study tips and build connections that encourage them to stay and progress their careers locally.

The first event, held at Saffery’s Inverness office, brought together around 20 Chartered Accountant (CA) students and graduates from across the Highlands, including those on the ICAS-RGU Graduate Apprenticeship programme, as well as school‑leaver and graduate‑entry routes.

ICAS currently supports around 30 students working with accounting practices in the region that are approved as ICAS training offices, and plans to expand the networking programme to additional locations later this year, including Aberdeen. The strong early response highlights clear demand for more local professional support, complementing existing initiatives such as the ICAS Highland Area Network and reinforcing ICAS’s presence in the region.

Cat Devaney, executive director of learning at ICAS, said: “With several students spread across Inverness and the region, these sessions give CA students a valuable opportunity to build local networks, connect with peers and gain fresh perspectives.

“Students further along in their studies can offer practical advice, study tips and real-world insight to those just starting out, helping to build confidence early in their CA journey.

“Held quarterly and hosted by local firms, each session aims to create a relaxed and consistent space to share insights, broaden networks and strengthen the CA community across the Highlands.”

Hollie Reid, a CA student at Goldwells studying via the RGU Graduate route, added: “The journey to becoming a CA is a unique experience that’s often only truly understood by those who are currently, or have previously, been through it.

“Having the chance to meet other CA students to share experiences and support one another is extremely valuable, particularly when you’re training in a smaller firm where there may only be one or two students at the same stage.”

The next Highlands session is scheduled to take place later this summer at the Inverness offices of Frame Kennedy, with ICAS also exploring interest in running a similar networking session for firms in and around Aberdeen.