As part of the firm’s graduate scheme, Johnston Carmichael’s recruitment team seeks applicants who provide authentic answers to questions rather than using AI stock responses. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a face-to-face assessment centre rather than participating in remote interviews, reflecting the importance the firm places on personal interaction.

Applications close on 24 October 2025, or sooner if there is sufficient response. Graduates do not require finance or accounting backgrounds to apply and are supported to obtain a range of professional qualifications.

Successful candidates will join the firm next year, with opportunities to start in January, allowing recent graduates to gain life experience before taking a full-time job – or in August 2026.

Undergraduates can also apply for 2026 internships, which last six weeks and offer a taste of life at the firm as well as helping to develop the employability skills required for future career success.

Kimberley Watson, head of early careers, Johnston Carmichael, said: “What we are looking to develop is our next generation of trusted advisers – and that means we need candidates with strong people skills and the ability to work in close partnership with clients.

“Technology has increasingly become part of our profession, but as processes are digitised, the added value we offer – getting to know our clients and their businesses and providing proactive support that helps them manage challenges and make the most of opportunities – is more important than ever.

“We are open to people of all backgrounds. The main priority is to have an interest in our firm, and we do look for academic rigour. We ask for a minimum of a 2:1 pass and analytical skills. But being able to communicate effectively and form positive client relationships is essential to avert a skills gap.”

As part of its commitment to increasing social mobility in the profession, Johnston Carmichael has formed a partnership with the ICAS Foundation and provides two bursaries to students from disadvantaged backgrounds for the duration of their studies. It also supplies coaching and mentoring to a wider group of students to help them gain employability skills.

Johnston Carmichael was recently accredited as A Great Place To Work and is in the UK top 100 companies for development.

Ms Watson added: “This is a brilliant opportunity to join a business that cares about its future leaders and develops them from within. We have already seen previous graduates and school leavers attain Director and Partner roles in our firm.

“We are committed to giving students the best possible experience throughout their journey with us. This summer, our senior leaders joined the student induction in Dundee, where our CEO, Lynne Walker, welcomed everyone. She shared insights into our culture and values, and why they play such a vital role in shaping the way we work.

“As a firm, we have ambitious growth plans and are dedicated to creating enduring impact for our clients, colleagues and the communities where we live and work. Our unique training and development programmes have a major role to play in delivering our goals.”

Graduate roles are available across a range of locations including Aberdeen, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Elgin, Inverness, Dundee and Newcastle. For more details and to apply click here.