At a Glance
- Tasks: Support corporate finance projects, valuations, and client presentations while gaining hands-on experience.
- Company: Join AAB, a leading professional services group with a focus on growth and development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, study support for CAI qualification, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with clear career progression and mentoring opportunities.
- Why this job: Launch your career in corporate finance with early responsibility and real impact.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and strong analytical skills; previous experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
Location: Belfast
Start Date: Summer/Autumn 2026
Salary: Competitive
Launch Your Career in Corporate Finance with AAB
Are you graduating soon and looking for a career that combines analytical thinking, commercial insight, and professional development? At AAB, we're passionate about developing future talent and giving our graduates the opportunity to build rewarding and successful careers. As a Graduate Corporate Finance Executive in our Belfast office, you'll join a dynamic and growing team that advises businesses and entrepreneurs on some of the most important decisions they face, from acquisitions and disposals to valuations, fundraising, and strategic growth initiatives. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands‑on experience from day one while studying towards the Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI) qualification, with full support for your professional studies and career development.
Key Responsibilities
- Working alongside experienced Corporate Finance professionals, you'll support a wide range of advisory engagements, including:
- Assisting with business valuations and financial analysis
- Supporting mergers and acquisitions (M&A) projects
- Preparing financial models and forecasts
- Conducting market and sector research
- Assisting in the preparation of client presentations and reports
- Supporting due diligence assignments
- Building strong relationships with clients and colleagues
- Developing technical, commercial, and advisory skills
As your experience grows, you'll take on increasing responsibility and become a trusted member of the team.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
We're interested in ambitious graduates who are eager to learn and develop their careers in Corporate Finance. You’ll ideally have:
- A degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business, Mathematics, or another relevant discipline
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- A commercial mindset and genuine interest in business
- Strong attention to detail
- A proactive and enthusiastic approach
- The ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Previous work experience is beneficial but not essential.
Benefits
Professional Development & Study Support
We are committed to helping you achieve your full potential. As part of our Graduate Programme, you'll receive:
- Full support towards the Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI) qualification
- Paid tuition and exam fees
- Dedicated study and revision leave
- Structured on‑the‑job training
- Regular coaching and mentoring
- Access to experienced professionals across the AAB Group
- Opportunities to develop both technical and professional skills
Why AAB?
At AAB, people are at the heart of everything we do. We're committed to creating an environment where individuals can thrive, develop, and make a real impact. You’ll benefit from:
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- A supportive and collaborative culture
- Hybrid and flexible working opportunities
- Early responsibility and client exposure
- Clear career progression pathways
- Opportunities to work with ambitious businesses across a variety of sectors
- A strong focus on learning, development, and wellbeing
About AAB
AAB is one of the UK's leading professional services groups, providing accountancy, audit, tax, corporate finance, payroll, wealth, technology, and business advisory services. We work with businesses and individuals across the UK and Ireland, helping them achieve their ambitions and navigate change with confidence. Join us and start building a career where your development matters, your contributions are valued, and your future is full of opportunity.
Corporate Finance Graduate employer: AAB
AAB is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and supportive work culture, making it an ideal place for Strategic HR Consultants to thrive. With a strong emphasis on professional development and mentoring, employees are encouraged to grow their skills while contributing to meaningful client advisory projects in the vibrant city of Belfast. The hybrid working model further enhances work-life balance, allowing for flexibility and innovation in delivering HR consulting services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Corporate Finance Graduate
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like AAB. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Corporate Finance Graduate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to AAB.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on AAB's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at AAB
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with AAB.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at AAB will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former AAB employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
