Location: Derby

Are you passionate about numbers, problem-solving, and building strong relationships? Do you want to continue learning while also earning? Are you looking for an entry-level role with incredible career potential in the accounting field? If so, the PKF Smith Cooper apprenticeship program could be the perfect opportunity for you.

We are a Midlands-based accounting and advisory firm with a strong regional reputation and a globally recognised brand. Several of our partners and directors began their careers as apprentices, and their dedication and drive have been key to our success. That’s why we are committed to offering entry-level opportunities and investing in nurturing homegrown talent.

At PKF Smith Cooper, you’ll thrive in our inclusive and empowering company culture. We offer regular social events that allow you to connect with your colleagues outside of work, along with team initiatives and committees where everyone has a voice. Whether it’s our annual summer social, departmental events, sports competitions, walking challenges, or even book clubs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

About the role:

We are looking for an apprentice to join our Business Services Department in Derby. As a Business Services Apprentice, you will work alongside our team of accounting professionals, assisting clients from various sectors across the region. This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience while advancing your knowledge through classroom-based learning.

This is an ideal position for a motivated individual who wants to start their accounting career with a dynamic team in our Derby office.

As part of the apprenticeship, you’ll take exams (AAT) to strengthen your skills and enhance your career prospects within the company. We offer comprehensive study support for your AAT exams, including regular check-ins, goal setting from our Learning & Development Team, and one-to-one guidance through our buddy scheme to help you balance work and study.

The important work you will be doing:

In our Apprenticeship Scheme, you will interact with clients and develop strong relationships to better understand their accounting needs. Your role will involve supporting the team with a variety of accounting tasks, providing services such as bookkeeping, preparation of financial statements and management accounts, and helping clients navigate their financial performance and compliance.

As part of your AAT training contract, you’ll work with businesses of all sizes, from national corporations to entrepreneurial start-ups, gaining hands-on experience while building your expertise.

You’ll develop valuable technical skills, gain a broad understanding of the commercial world, and become an expert in various industry sectors on your journey to becoming a fully qualified accountant at PKF Smith Cooper.

Throughout the Apprenticeship Scheme, you’ll receive the guidance and support you need to unlock your full potential in accounting. With an ambitious and supportive team behind you, you’ll become a key contributor to the success of our Business Services team. As your experience grows, so will your opportunities within the firm.

The skills and experience you will bring:

3 A-levels with at least 2 grades B or above (or equivalent)
5 GCSEs grade 6 and above (or equivalent)
Previous experience in a customer-facing role is desirable
A full driving license with access to a car is preferable
If you are eager to start your accounting career with a company that offers real opportunities for growth and development, we would love to hear from you!
Maths A-Level (preferred but not essential)

Why PKF Smith Cooper?

Our company culture, built on our values – Engage, Empower and Excel – encourages initiative, personal growth, and collaboration. Every team member is appreciated and celebrated; a notion embodied in our Kudos Reward Scheme.
The firm’s Partners, who remain actively invested in the development of employees, will both support and champion your professional development and progression.
We work with ambitious businesses of different sizes across a variety of sectors, so no two jobs are the same.
We are multi-award-winning accountants and business advisors, ranked the 12th biggest firm by UK fee income in the Accountancy Age Top 50+50.

Why Derby?

Home to our head office, Derby boasts a rich history of innovation, and many technological and professional services continue to thrive there. With easy travel connections across the country and charming countryside right on the doorstep, Derby has a lot on offer to do and see. The vibrant city centre is great for shopping, eating out and experiencing live music or theatre.

PKF International

As an active member of PKF International, we are part of a large global network of legally independent accounting firms.

Located in the 5 fastest growing global markets, we have ground presence in 150 countries and span across many jurisdictions.

An ambitious, future-focused network, PKF provides a comprehensive range of services. Operating in unison with member firms across the world, we are able to share our ideas, expertise, and specialist resources to better serve our clients, delivering highly-personalised services and global connectivity through our client-centric culture.

What's in it for you?

Our benefits package has been designed around our people and shaped by our values. As part of Team PKF Smith Cooper, here are some of the things you can expect:

A working environment that empowers you to perform at your best, through our flexible working policy and dress for your diary scheme - Hybrid working during your probation period is subject to manager discretion
Time to do what matters to you – 25 days annual leave plus statutory bank holidays, the option to reduce annual hours for additional annual leave, and your birthday off, on us. Long-serving employees can also request a sabbatical, giving you the chance to make truly unforgettable memories
Rewards for those who actively embrace and embody our values and culture through our Kudos Reward Scheme
Regular social events and annual, company-wide away days, giving you the opportunity to engage with colleagues across your division and office, as well as the wider firm
Bonus referral schemes for introducing new talent or clients so that when we benefit, you do too
Life doesn’t stop at the end of the working day and neither do our benefits. We also offer life assurance, discounts on a huge variety of retailers through the PKF Smith Cooper Rewards Scheme, and cashback on healthcare (including dental visits, physiotherapy etc) through Healthshield

How to apply?

Apply now if you believe you have what we are looking for! Even if you do not tick 100% of the boxes, we would encourage you to apply. To do so, please upload a copy of your CV and a covering letter to our job portal.

Should you have any questions, please contact a member of the HR team - email recruitment@pkfsmithcooper.com or call 01332 332021.

Please note that whilst we welcome and encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply for our vacancies, we are unfortunately unable to accept applications from candidates requiring a visa to work in the UK.

Please no agencies unless we have contacted you directly.

PKF Smith Cooper

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