Pros
First, I'd like to give an overview of the process.
I applied to the HAT Group in October, looking for an ACA Training Contract with a January start date. I was sent links to complete online numerical and verbal reasoning tests, and then invited to an initial interview with the Graduate Recruitment Manager, Anna Boast. After asking questions about my motivations, my strengths and my knowledge of the role, she decided to recommend me to two member firms, Wilder Coe and Beavis Morgan. Two weeks after this initial interview, I was interviewed by a medium sized firm called Wilder Coe, who offered me a position. The entire process took roughly one month, from initial contact with the HAT Group to receiving my offer.
The pros of applying to the HAT Group are numerous. However, the most impressive aspect of their service is the care and attention that they pay to each applicant. Anna and Maggie (Office Co-Ordinator) responded extremely quickly (typically within the same day) at every stage of the process, and were always happy to give detailed responses to any query that I had. This gave the process a bespoke feel, and the continuity provided by the fact that they deal with the entire process from start to finish means that they are always aware of the individual circumstances of your case. Finally, and perhaps importantly, the member firms of the HAT Group are impressive, running beyond my expectations. The firm at which I was placed has a fantastic location (near to Bank Tube Stop), a long-standing and growing client base, an ambitious mindset, and a truly competitive pay packet. I found that HAT Group firms, being smaller than the giants of the industry, also had more of a welcoming and intimate feel to them.
Cons
The HAT Group only represents medium/ small accountancy firms. If you are looking for a trainee contract in a Top 20 firm then they will not be able to provide this.
This is counterbalanced, however, by the fact that you may be able to get a role at a Big 4/ Top 20 firm upon completion of a trainee contract at a HAT Group firm.