Qualified and even trainee accountants are once again in demand, as firms across Essex embark on a recruitment drive. Reflecting the trend, accountancy firm Baker Tilly has appointed five new trainees, the highest single intake since the start of the 2008 recession. The trainees will be working across a wide and varied range of specialities, including tax, assurance, and financial reporting. Tom Lines will be joining the tax team, Lewis Brown and Joe Down will be in assurance and Tom Moss and Amy Rodgers will be working in outsourcing, part of the accounting and financial reporting service line. Richard White, managing partner at Baker Tilly’s Chelmsford office said: ‘‘It is fantastic we’re in a position to take on so many new starters at the Chelmsford office. “They are the future of the firm and it is important we continue to invest in the best talent that the region has to offer.’ The new recruits will start their careers on an intensive training course and will continue to study towards their professional qualifications including Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT), Association of Chartered Accountants (ACA) and Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) certificates throughout the next five years According to a report released in April by the recruitment agency Robert Hall, qualified accountants are once again in a sellers’ market across the UK, Europe and America. Consolidation by British and US accountancy associations means  British qualifications are now recognised in the USA, and vice versa.  Accountants are also riding high, thanks to the return of business growth and investment in the UK. Paul McDonald, senior executive director at Robert Half, said: “Growth in companies is creating a high demand for qualified candidates. Unemployment rates among accountants are some of the lowest for any job description.” Candidates at the top of their game, he says, can expect a good solid job offer. As the pendulum swings further in the employees’ favour, Paul says companies are more willing to go the extra mile to retain valued employees. Perks can include bonuses, investing in professional development and providing good opportunities for career advancement.