Armstrong Watson has appointed its new audit and assurance director, coinciding with the firm's National Apprenticeship Week 2024 celebrations.

Lauren Graham started at the company's Hexham office as a trainee in 2013 and subsequently completed her AAT apprenticeship before qualifying as a Chartered Accountant and gaining her ACA in 2018.

She took on managerial roles in 2020.

Ms Graham said: "I thoroughly enjoy working for Armstrong Watson and I am incredibly proud of our audit and assurance team and all that we achieve.

"We have seen significant growth in Cumbria and the team has worked hard to deliver for our new and existing clients.

"We continue to invest in our team to support this growth, and with more in the pipeline I’m excited for what’s to come in my new role."

Now based at James Watson House in Carlisle, Ms Graham's expertise include audit, risk management and quality assurance.

In her new role, she'll handle a portfolio as a relationship director and will continue to be part of the leadership team in Cumbria.

She also recently joined Austin Friers School Board of Trustees in addition to her three-year term on the Board of Trustees at Carlisle Youth Zone.

Joanna Gray, head of audit and assurance, said: "Recognising and nurturing the talent we currently have within the firm is integral to our growth, and Lauren has shown this in abundance.

"Her promotion is well-deserved and reflects her hard work, dedication and professionalism.

"We are confident that she will excel in her new role and bring more value and innovation to our firm and our clients."