ACA Graduate Programme in Manchester

AMS is a fast-growing accountancy practice currently ranked number 55 in the UK with aims to be a top 40 firm in the next three years. We are looking for talented individuals to join us and our exciting journey. Based in our Manchester head office you will attend college for "off the job" training and be allocated a dedicated mentor to support you in your "on the job" training.

Closing Date: 15th February 2026

Working week: Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm (37.5 Hours)

Expected duration: 3 years

Possible start date: 3rd August 2026

What you’ll be doing:

• Working predominately in our busy audit team and trained across a number of disciplines.
• Preparing accounts for limited companies, sole traders and partnerships.
• Assisting on the audit of financial statements for limited companies and other specialist entities.
• Exposed to a variety of areas such as VAT, personal tax, corporation tax and working on ad-hoc tasks across our busy department.
• Assisting with the planning, execution and completion of statutory audits for a diverse portfolio of clients.
• Preparing high-quality audit working papers in accordance with professional standards and firm methodology.
• Performing detailed testing of financial statements, controls and transactions.
• Identifying audit risks and escalating findings to senior team members where appropriate.
• Liaising directly with clients to obtain audit evidence and resolve queries efficiently.
• Using audit and accounting software to analyse financial data and document conclusions.
• Supporting senior auditors and managers throughout the audit process.
• Building strong technical knowledge while studying towards the ACA qualification.
• Developing professional communication, analytical and problem-solving skills within a top 50 practice environment.

What training will the graduate take and what qualification will the graduate get at the end?

Alongside your normal duties you will also be granted day release to study towards the ACA qualification. AMS strives to develop individuals to benefit the team as a whole and gives all members of staff the opportunity to fulfil their own personal goals through a fully supported but challenging environment. Personal development plans are set throughout the programme and on the job training is provided from designated mentors and senior staff.

What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?

Progress through the managerial and internal training and development tracks with progression offered through to management. On completion of the qualification a successful candidate will progress to a qualified accountant and onto our junior management programme.

Desired skills and personal qualities:

• Communication skills
• IT skills
• Attention to detail
• Customer care skills
• Problem solving skills
• Administrative skills
• Number skills
• Analytical skills
• Logical
• Team working
• Initiative

Qualifications:

• GCSE or equivalent Including Maths and English (Grade 9-4) essential
• A Level or equivalent (Grade 3 A*-C) essential
• NVQ or SVQ Level 3 or equivalent (Grade pass) essential
• 2:1 Degree or higher

Things to consider:

Attitude is as important to us as qualifications, we are looking for positive individuals who have a "Can Do" attitude and an entrepreneurial mindset. In return we can offer you formal training and informal training to include Accounting, Audit & Assurance & Tax in a friendly and welcoming environment.

Benefits:

• 23 Days Annual Leave (Option to buy an extra 5 days)
• Additional day off for birthday
• Discretionary Bonus
• Health cash plan
• Company sick pay
• Company Pension Scheme
• Perkbox
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme

About the employer:

AMS Group is a national accountancy firm with our head office based in Manchester City Centre. Since 1982, we have grown from a family-run company to a Top 50+50 UK firm which offers financial and tax services to a wide range of businesses across a number of sectors. We pride ourselves on our ambitious, entrepreneurial, and hard-working attitude. Our service is friendly and tailored to our clients’ needs, helping us build strong, long-lasting relationships. The future of AMS is exciting, join us on our journey!