Early expansion for accountant

Emma Kirk and Caroline Askin at the CJA office in Roberttown.

CJA Accountancy Services has hired apprentice Emma Kirk, 18, who will be guided by director Caroline Askin.

The firm opened its doors in May 2012 and originally planned to expand in two to three years.

But word-of-mouth recommendations and new clients mean the company has grown ahead of schedule.

Caroline Askin said: “I started in 1991 on a youth training scheme in Mirfield, where I was nurtured and brought on by the amazing people there.

“I’m eternally thankful to them as they gave me my love for the job, and I always planned to do the same for someone when the time was right.”

Emma, of Cleckheaton, has been studying accountancy at New College, Huddersfield, and will continue her qualification at college on Fridays.

She said: “‘Caroline is a great communicator and has such a down to earth approach that puts everyone at ease.

“I’m confident I’m on the right path.”

Caroline said she had seen an upturn in business over the last year, with many of her customers completing their first year of trading.

“It’s tough when companies first get going, but they’re still going strong and I fully expect them to be successful, and to be doing their accounts in years to come.

“Emma impressed me from day one, and she’s already made an impact.

“She’s learning fast, and that’s allowing me to give even more to the business.”

Caroline manages the business finances of SMEs in Cleckheaton, Huddersfield and Bradford.