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Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions Expands into Accountancy Recruitment – An Interview with David Hawthorne-Finch
It’s been an incredible journey so far for Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions, making waves in the UK Legal Recruitment industry and being nominated for the Independent Business of the Year 2025 at the Yorkshire Choice Awards. But now, there’s even bigger news – we’re expanding into Accountancy Practice Recruitment!
To mark this milestone, we sat down with David Hawthorne-Finch, Founder of Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions, to discuss the company’s success, why Accountancy Practice was the natural next step, and what’s next for the business.
Success in Legal Recruitment
Interviewer: David, it’s been an exciting year for Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions! What have been some of your biggest wins in Legal Recruitment?
David: I honestly thought it would take longer to get to where we are, but the response from law firms and job seekers has been incredible. We now have over 400 vacancies registered across the UK and 200+ live roles currently advertised (the rest are confidential).
What really means the most to me is the trust that firms and candidates have placed in us. Clients know we genuinely care about their teams, and job seekers trust us to match them with firms where they can thrive – not just survive. And of course, being a 2025 Yorkshire Choice Awards nominee is a pretty big highlight!
What Makes Hawthorne-Finch Different?
Interviewer: What do you think sets Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions apart in the legal recruitment market?
David: We actually care. Simple as that. I’d rather spend time helping someone improve their CV than scroll on my phone during my break. I even set aside a percentage of my week to support people who just need guidance, advice, or a friendly recruiter to answer their questions. You never know – today’s job seeker might be tomorrow’s hiring manager!
Interviewer: That’s reflected in your testimonials! Any standout success stories?
David: So many! But here are a few that really stuck with me:
👉 “David smoothly supported me in securing a new position with a firm of solicitors. He kept me informed throughout and never pressured me. He genuinely cared that I was happy in my decision.”
👉 “David is the ‘go-to’ for litigation recruitment.”
👉 “He took the time to find out what was important to me and worked tirelessly to get me the right role. No pressure, just genuine support. I’ve already recommended him to friends!”
It’s these stories that remind me why I love what I do.
Why Expand into Accountancy Recruitment?
Interviewer: So, what led you to expand into Accountancy Practice Recruitment?
David: Honestly, I hadn’t planned on it! But past clients from my accountancy recruitment days reached out asking for help. That’s when I knew it was time to bring it back – by popular demand!
Legal has grown so well that I can bring someone in to lead the legal recruitment desk, giving me the space to launch Accountancy.
Interviewer: What types of roles will you be recruiting for?
David: Everything across Accountancy Practice – from Audit, Accounts, Bookkeeping, and Payroll to Corporate & Personal Tax, Management Accounts, and Advisory.
Whether it’s a boutique independent firm or a Big 4 powerhouse, we’ll make sure our candidates get the best options on the market.
Where Will You Be Operating?
Interviewer: You’ve mentioned focusing on the North West and London. Will you support candidates relocating between the two?
David: Absolutely! If a candidate has UK Practice experience, we’re here to support them, whether they’re looking to stay local or make a move.
And we’re not stopping there – national expansion is on the cards! In fact, I’ve already been approached by two amazing recruitment consultants who I’d love to bring on board as we grow.
Growth Plans for 2025
Interviewer: What’s your vision for the Legal & Accountancy teams?
David: I want Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions to be industry-recognised for true career matching – not just based on technical skills, but cultural fit and personal values too.
To do this, I’m investing in my team. That means higher-than-market salaries and commission because recruiters should be financially secure and not stressed about hitting targets just to pay rent. Commission should be a reward, not a necessity!
Interviewer: Will you be hiring new recruiters?
David: Yes! If you have Legal or Accountancy Recruitment experience, let’s talk. And if you’re an experienced recruiter looking to launch a desk in a new industry, get in touch – it’s worth a chat.
The Long-Term Goal for Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions
Interviewer: Where do you see the business going in the long run?
David: The ultimate goal is simple:
✔ Support job seekers & clients in a way that takes the stress out of hiring and career moves.
✔ Make recruitment a fun experience rather than a daunting one.
✔ Create a culture where consultants thrive – by focusing on relationships over transactions.
A new job should be exciting, a career move should be empowering, and recruitment should feel like working with a trusted partner. That’s what we do.
Final Thoughts
Interviewer: Lastly, what’s your personal motivation behind this expansion?
David: To create an amazing life for myself, my husband Lee, and (most importantly) our cat Boo, who somehow has the most expensive taste out of all of us!
Want to Work with Us?
🚀 Looking for your next role in Legal or Accountancy Practice? Get in touch – we’re here to help!
📩 Hiring for your team? Let’s chat about how we can support your firm’s growth.
🎯 Recruiters looking for a new challenge? Whether you’re in Legal, Accountancy, or a completely different sector, reach out – it’s worth the conversation!
Because at Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions, David Did It – and You Can Too!