Charlie Harris passes latest ACCA exam
We’re really pleased to share that Charlie Harris, Accounts Assistant at Harling & Kirk Accountants (HK). Has successfully passed his latest Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) exam. A fantastic step forward in his journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant.
Charlie joined Harling & Kirk just over a year ago and has quickly become a valued member of the team. In his role as an Accounts Assistant, he supports a wide range of clients, Preparing VAT returns and assisting with year-end accounts. He particularly enjoys the variety that comes with working across different industries and the opportunity to keep building his knowledge.
From marketing to accountancy
Charlie’s route into accountancy wasn’t entirely traditional. After graduating from Manchester Metropolitan University with a degree in Business & Marketing in 2020, his original plan to go into marketing was disrupted by COVID.
Instead, he pivoted by starting part-time work while studying accountancy. That decision led to his first role as a Finance Assistant, and ultimately to where he is today.
“I had a marketing job lined up after uni but COVID meant this was cancelled. So I did part-time work alongside accountancy exams, then got hired as a finance assistant.”
Progressing through ACCA
Charlie has now passed his Management Accounting exam as part of the ACCA qualification and is continuing to build momentum towards becoming fully qualified.
Like many trainees, balancing work and study can be challenging, but by having the right support makes all the difference.
“HK have been very supportive, providing both financial and professional support, with study leave provided.”
As an ACCA Approved Employer, HK is committed to helping team members develop through structured training, mentoring, and real client experience. (You can read more about this here: ACCA Approved Employer | Harling & Kirk Accountants.)
HK provides a supportive and down-to-earth team
One of the things Charlie values most about working at HK is the culture.
“HK is very collaborative and down to earth whilst maintaining professional standards.”
The balance of high standards without a corporate feel, is something we’re proud of and something that helps our trainees grow with confidence.
What’s next for Charlie
Charlie is continuing his ACCA studies and is focused on building his career within practice. With a strong foundation already in place, he’s well on his way to qualification.
When asked whether he’d recommend HK to someone starting out, his answer was clear:
“I would strongly recommend HK or a similar firm to someone starting their accountancy journey.”
Frank Harling, Partner at Harling & Kirk, commented:
“Delighted to see Charlie pass his latest exam, it is another step towards him achieving his ACCA qualification and is testament to the hard work he put into the exam and hours of studying!”
Thinking about a career in accountancy?
As an ACCA Approved Employer with Trainee Development Gold / Platinum status, HK provides a clear and supported path into the profession by combining hands-on experience with structured learning and development.
If you’re starting your journey or looking to take the next step, you can find out more here: Careers – Harling & Kirk Accountants