Newcastle-based independent chartered accountancy and business advisory firm UNW has announced the promotion of Peter Sym to Partner in its Audit & Assurance team, making him the first person in the firm’s history to progress from graduate trainee level all the way through to partner.
Peter, who joined UNW in 2014 on the firm’s award-winning graduate programme, now has 10 years of valuable experience across a variety of sectors, with his clients ranging from local entrepreneurial businesses through to large international groups.
UNW, which employs more than 180 people in its city centre offices, has a strong track record of people development and last month saw 12 members of the team promoted, 8 of whom began their careers at the firm at either apprentice or graduate level.
Andrew Wilson, Managing Partner at UNW, said: “Over the years, we have clearly demonstrated that opportunities for promotion at all levels of the firm exist for those that consistently evidence outstanding capability and total commitment to operate at the next level. Peter’s progression from graduate trainee to partner in 10 years is a phenomenal case study in what can be achieved and I’m confident it will be a recurring feature in the firm’s future.
“We strongly believe that the team here get the best possible professional experience and that, coupled with significant investment in training, ensures that internal candidates are, more often than not, the strongest.
“We have invested in building an exceptional team in recent years to ensure we are well equipped to provide our clients with the best advice and service. This puts us in a really strong position to continue to seek out new opportunities in the marketplace.”
Peter Sym said: “I’m delighted to have accepted an offer of partnership at UNW. When I joined the Audit department a decade ago, there were 20 people in the team, now we’re 80-strong, and that growth, mirrored across the firm, has created massive opportunities for progression.
“Throughout my time here, there has always been a very clear route through the ranks, with the partners striving to push me on, and giving up their time to help me to develop. Coupled with the wide variety of clients we have here, I’ve seen and learnt new things every day.
“The unique culture within the department and the firm at large makes UNW a great place to work, and I’m now looking forward to continuing to support the team and look after our clients in my new capacity.”