Azets Group is set to recruit 142 graduates and school leavers, as part of its national drive to invest in the next generation of young accounting talent across the UK.

The recruitment drive at the global accounting, advisory and business services group, which has offices in Cheltenham, Gloucester and Dursley, will bring the firm's total student population to more than 900.

Investing in the next generation of talent is a key strategy for the Azets Group, as it looks to further expand its offer and continue to deliver a high-quality service locally to businesses across the UK.

The company is able to offer a varied career path for joiners, with the option to work across different parts of the country and to specialise in different aspects of the accounting and business advisory offer, from general practice and tax to corporate finance, trade and restructuring.

The continuation of Azets' graduate and school leaver national recruitment drive, against the backdrop of the current pandemic and wider economic challenges, is a reflection of growing demand for tailored business advice and services, as companies and individuals look to navigate through the increased levels of uncertainty and change.

The graduate and school leaver intake will be spread across all of the group's UK offices, the largest UK network of local accounting and business advisory offices.

David Whitson-Black, group head of talent development for Azets, said: "Despite the current economic backdrop, we remain committed to investing in people and to developing the talent of the younger generation, who will be the business leaders and advisors of tomorrow. Those in their early twenties have been disproportionately hit by the economic impact of the pandemic, so it is extremely pleasing to be able to kickstart the careers of so many young people and offer them a bright and interesting future.

"Investing in our people and their careers is a key strategy for Azets, benefiting them as well as positioning the company well for the future, as we continue with our ambitious plans to grow the business and deliver a service of outstanding professional quality, that is both personalised and localised."