We are excited to announce that Carston Chartered Accountants has completed the acquisition of David Jones & Co, a respected specialist tax practice, finalised on 20 October 2023. This move strengthens our position as the largest independent practice in Cardiff while creating new career pathways across tax, trust and estate services.
For candidates and current team members alike, this acquisition means enhanced specialist learning, broader client experience and access to a global professional network via ETL Global. Read on to learn what this change means for your career at Carston.
Overview of the Acquisition
What happened
Carston acquired David Jones & Co, bringing specialist tax and trust expertise into our firm while ensuring continuity for existing clients. David Jones will remain engaged as a consultant to support the transition and mentor staff.
Why it matters for careers
This strategic investment expands our service offering and deepens technical capability, creating opportunities for both specialist and generalist roles. It also supports succession for longstanding clients and opens routes for internal progression.
Opportunities for Current and Prospective Employees
Career progression and development
Joining Carston now means being part of a growing firm where progression is tangible and supported. Expect structured development plans, specialist secondments and clearer promotion pathways as we integrate David Jones & Co expertise.
New roles and specialist pathways
We are recruiting across multiple levels to support increased demand in tax, trusts and estates, including:
- Experienced tax advisers and trust specialists
- Semi-senior and senior roles in client-facing accountancy
- Support roles in compliance, client services and practice management
Training, mentorship and knowledge transfer
With David Jones remaining as a consultant and our ETL Global connections, team members will benefit from formal training, on-the-job mentoring and access to technical resources. This environment accelerates skills development for both newly qualified and seasoned professionals.
Working with David Jones & Co Expertise
Continuity and client relationships
Maintaining client trust is a priority; continuity is assured through David’s consultancy role and a deliberate handover process. Staff will gain experience handling sensitive estate and trust matters under guided supervision.
Specialist tax and trusts experience
David Jones brings deep credentials—member of the Chartered Institute of Tax since 1993 and a past Chairman of the Wales branch of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners. Team members will have direct exposure to advanced inheritance tax planning and estate administration cases.
Benefits of the ETL Global Network
Global resources and mobility
As part of ETL Global, which employs around 24,000 people across 50+ countries, Carston team members gain access to international technical resources, cross-border collaboration and potential secondment opportunities. This broadens career horizons beyond Cardiff.
Tools, support and platform for growth
ETL Global provides sophisticated tools, training frameworks and a professional services platform that supports career development. These resources help our teams deliver high-quality advice while expanding their technical and managerial skills.
Culture, Values and the People We Seek
Our values
We prioritise a personalized, proactive approach to client service, underpinned by integrity, teamwork and continuous learning. Our culture supports approachable leaders, collaborative problem-solving and recognition of achievement.
Who should apply
We welcome candidates who are client-focused, technically curious and eager to grow. Suitable applicants include:
- Qualified accountants and tax advisers seeking specialist work
- Graduates and trainees looking for structured development
- Experienced support professionals who value client continuity and teamwork
Employee Experience and Benefits
Carston offers competitive compensation, ongoing CPD support and a collaborative working environment. Joining us now gives staff access to specialist workflows, broader client cases and international collaboration through ETL Global.
We are committed to flexible working practices, investment in staff wellbeing and clear career-path conversations to help you reach your professional goals.
How to Apply and Next Steps
We are actively recruiting to support the integration of David Jones & Co. Prospective applicants can apply via our careers portal or contact our HR team for more information.
- Browse current vacancies on our careers page
- Submit your CV and a brief covering note outlining your interest
- Attend a first-stage interview and technical assessment (where applicable)
- Meet the team and discuss development and secondment opportunities
If you are interested in specialist tax or trust roles, please indicate this in your application to help us match you with the right opportunities.
Leadership Perspective
“This is another step in an exciting phase for Carston, presenting an opportunity to enhance our tailored services for owner-operated businesses in Cardiff and the neighbouring area. Our steadfast commitment remains focused on delivering a deeply personalized, swift, and proactive approach to assist clients in addressing their daily business and personal accounting and tax challenges. We are delighted about the inclusion of David Jones & Co into Carston and the broader ETL Global network.” — Jon Rees, Managing Director
Join Us
If you are seeking a career where technical excellence, client service and professional growth converge, Carston is growing to meet that ambition. Be part of a team combining local leadership with global reach and specialist depth.
Explore current vacancies, connect with our recruitment team, and discover how joining Carston can advance your career in accountancy and tax.
