Graduate Scheme - Business Consultant in Manchester

Columbus is a consultancy company focused on helping organisations drive business value by advising, creating, and advancing the entire business. We deliver digital value through human intelligence, enabling our customers to innovate and grow.

Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey into the world of cutting-edge technology and business transformation? Columbus, a global leader in digital solutions and consulting, is thrilled to announce our 2026 Microsoft D365 Graduate Programme is now open for registration. Whilst we work in digital transformation and ERP systems, we aren’t after "Techies" - our graduates are from a range of subject backgrounds, and are trained to be client-facing business consultants.

Associate Business Consultants – Location – Must be willing to be Nottingham office-based for the initial training 6 months, min. 3 Days in our office p/w – Cubo, Standard Court, NG1. Following the completion of the 6-month initial Training, you can base yourself anywhere in the UK. Salary - c£29,000 basic salary & benefits. (rising to c£60,000 after 4 years dependent on performance) Starting: September 2026 - actual date tbc.

Online Test: Following submission of your CV application, you will be sent an online psychometric test which needs to be completed ahead of the closing date. Closing Date for Applications and Online Test: Midnight Sunday 1st of February 2026.

As a forward-thinking company, we understand that innovation is the key to staying ahead in today’s fast-paced business landscape. That’s why we have crafted a unique opportunity for talented graduates like you to be part of our team, driving impactful change and shaping the future of business.

What sets Columbus apart is our unwavering commitment to empowering businesses through digital transformation. By joining our Graduate Programme, you will be at the forefront of revolutionising industries, leveraging the power of Microsoft Dynamics 365 to optimise processes, enhance customer experiences.

• Comprehensive training and development: We believe in equipping our graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the dynamic world of technology and consulting. You’ll receive extensive training on Dynamics 365, led by our industry experts, ensuring you become a proficient professional ready to make an impact.
• Transparent Salary Progression: You are given a clear picture of what goals you need to achieve to increase your salary progression through the scales.
• Global Exposure: You will be joining other Graduates and Accelerators from across Europe for your initial six-month training programme, collaborating virtually and in person for a week of consultancy skills training in Denmark or Sweden.
• Hands-on experience: Theory alone won’t make you an expert. That’s why we provide you with ample opportunities to work on real projects with our diverse range of clients. You’ll gain invaluable hands-on experience, tackling complex business challenges and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, sharpening your problem-solving and communication skills along the way.
• Mentorship and guidance: At Columbus, we believe in nurturing talent and helping you reach your full potential. Throughout the programme, you’ll have access to dedicated mentors who will provide guidance, support, and constructive feedback, helping you grow both personally and professionally.
• Microsoft Certifications & Career progression: Our Graduate Programme is designed to be a launchpad for your career. We invest in your growth, offering continuous learning opportunities, recognised industry certifications and a clear career progression path from Associate Consultant through to Principal Consultant or Lead Solutions Architect.
• Culture of collaboration and innovation: At Columbus, we foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. You’ll be part of a vibrant community of like-minded professionals, working together to drive positive change and shape the future of businesses around the world.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to kick-start your career in the world of business innovation and Dynamics 365. Join the Columbus Graduate Programme and be part of a company that is committed to your success.

The role of Associate Business Consultant: We are looking for enthusiastic, committed and newly or recently qualified graduates, Early Careers Consultants, or those looking for a career change, to join our Graduate/Accelerator Training Programme in September 2026.

The experience, knowledge, and skills you will gain on this scheme will:

• Give you an in-depth understanding of Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP implementations.
• Offer you the opportunity to quickly become a respected and credible Microsoft Dynamics Business Consultant.
• Help you to become an expert in your field of business and a trusted advisor to our customers.
• Provide you with a rewarding career pathway at Columbus.

You will be based in our consultancy department and will provide consultancy expertise throughout the project lifecycle of an ERP implementation. It is therefore essential that you are commercially focused, a positive self-starter and have strong relationship-building, interpersonal, organisational, and oral/written communication skills.

About you (the essentials):

• You should have/be expecting a minimum 2:1 degree (or equivalent qualifications/experience) in one of the following subjects: Finance, Accounting, Law, Business, IT, Psychology, Engineering or Manufacturing.
• Willingness to relocate to Nottingham/Office Based for 6 months.
• You should be proactive, confident and understand the business landscape.
• You will need to have the flexibility to travel both within the UK and abroad.
• Ability to drive with access to a vehicle.

What we can offer: You will be a part of both a local and global team, where you not only share knowledge but also a laugh or two. We value our employees and leave room for flexibility so that you can enjoy a work-life balance. You will get:

• 25 days annual leave (increasing with service).
• Hybrid working.
• Private medical insurance.
• Modern air-conditioned city centre office space, with breakout areas, barista-style coffee, access to the fitness & wellbeing suite, free beer, and fizz after hours.
• Columbus benefits hub – discounts on tickets, shopping, car leasing, holidays, food and more.
• Access to free training courses delivered by Columbus Academy.
• Free Microsoft certifications and access to Microsoft Learn.
• Personal pension plan.
• Life assurance x4 salary.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• £2,500 payment for successful candidate referrals.
• Company awards & recognition.
• Annual company special recognition awards with prizes!
• Give a thumbs up and receive a gift card through Columbus Cheers.
• Employee of the year and Employees Employee of the year.
• Long service awards.
• Employee wellbeing program.
• Free fruit.
• Westfield Health (includes an employee assistance line).
• Mental health first aiders.
• Suggestions boxes.

Next steps: Apply now and unlock your potential with Columbus! Together, let’s transform businesses and make an impact that lasts a lifetime. Visit our website or contact us for more information.