Xeinadin plans to recruit 70 graduates across its network of 33 Irish offices, a 40 per cent increase on last year’s intake, a move that matters broadly because it shows a national firm widening regional hiring while the trainee pipeline is under pressure, and matters specifically to accountancy professionals because it points to AI-driven efficiency being paired with more entry-level hiring, not less.

Xeinadin is a London-headquartered accountancy and business advisory group formed in 2019 through the merger of more than 100 practices in Ireland and the UK, with corporate offices in Manchester and Dublin and revenue of about 250 million pounds (about 290 million euros). It was named the eighth largest accountancy practice in Ireland and the 16th largest in Britain last December, with offices including Limerick.

Sandra Clarke, managing partner for Ireland at Xeinadin, said AI and other emerging technologies are becoming increasingly important tools in accountancy and will keep creating efficiencies, and that the firm wants to lead in developing the people skills and inspiring the next generation of business advisers. She added that graduates can take accountancy qualifications and need not move to urban areas to reach the opportunities of a national firm.

A 40 per cent rise implies about 50 graduates last year, so the intake adds roughly 20 places at a time when entry-level hiring is being cut elsewhere. Graduate job advertisements in accountancy fell 44 per cent year on year, and Big Four graduate and school leaver intakes were cut by up to 29 per cent, as AI and offshoring absorbed junior tasks.

The regional promise rests on acquisitions. Xeinadin added Galway firm FCC Chartered Accountants in 2025, its third Irish deal that year, and its Carrigan O’Dwyer deal in Kilkenny brought a 45-strong team and took it to 32 offices nationwide, one fewer than the 33 now named.

For the sector, a roll-up firm expanding graduate numbers as it adds offices suggests acquisitions and training now need to grow together.

Source: Limerick Leader / City AM / Irish Examiner / ThinkBusiness