VAT Graduate Programme (Autumn 2026) - Reading

At Grant Thornton we do things differently - looking to the future, driving ambitious growth and pioneering positive change in our industry. Providing audit, tax and advisory services, we empower clients through strategic insight, curiosity, and genuine partnership. And we empower our people with real opportunity, an inclusive culture and work life balance.

With over 5,000 people in the UK, and a presence in 150 global markets, we're on an ambitious journey, from great to exceptional, and we need the best people to help us achieve our potential. Tax professionals are analysts, advisers, and forward‑thinkers. They stay ahead of constantly evolving tax changes, helping businesses adapt, stay compliant, and make informed decisions.

Our tax practice is made up of over 15 specialist teams and more than 40 partners, working with clients across sectors like technology, financial services, and not‑for‑profit. When you join our tax service line, you'll be driven by curiosity – keen to understand the challenges our clients face and help them navigate what's right for their business. You’ll tackle complex problems, grow through hands‑on experience, and be supported every step of the way.

In our VAT team, you’ll help clients navigate complex UK and global VAT rules, optimise their tax position, and manage risk in a fast‑changing digital landscape. With VAT becoming a growing focus worldwide, you’ll support businesses expanding into new markets and international supply chains, helping them stay compliant and avoid costly errors.

Our three‑year tax graduate programme is your launchpad to a meaningful career, a professional qualification, and a chance to make a real impact on businesses.

What you’ll do:

• Work with a variety of clients, from household names to innovative start‑ups, providing VAT and customs advice whilst ensuring compliance with VAT rules.
• Get involved from day one, contributing to real tax projects – not just observing – and making a meaningful impact early on.
• Take on responsibility quickly, owning tasks that stretch your thinking and build your confidence.
• Collaborate with experienced colleagues, ensuring compliance with VAT rules and identifying opportunities for efficiencies to be made across our client’s reporting processes and supply chains.
• Draft clear, concise written advice, in report or memo format, and analyse clients’ VAT data using Excel to support informed decision‑making.
• Learn every day on the job, with guidance from mentors and a structured training programme to build your technical, digital and professional skills.
• Study with support, with dedicated time to study and a team behind you as you work towards your ATT and CTA qualifications.

Who we’re looking for:

• Curious minds who explore ideas and ask thoughtful questions.
• Innovative problem solvers with a sharp eye for data and detail.
• Collaborative partners who work respectfully and build trust with others.
• Effective communicators who listen, adapt, and express ideas clearly.
• Self‑leaders who manage and flex their time, mindset, and energy effectively.
• Career‑minded contributors who take initiative and are motivated to grow.

What you’ll get:

• Kickstart your career with a structured three‑year programme designed to give you real‑world experience from day one.
• Fully funded professional qualification, including paid study leave, expert tuition, and all course fees covered.
• Technology to support your learning and client work.
• Dedicated support network, from experienced managers and mentors to college tutors who’ll guide you every step of the way.
• Our approach to how we work helps you balance life, learning, and work.
• Exclusive discounts on shopping, gyms, and wellbeing services.
• Opportunities to give back through mentoring, volunteering, or fundraising initiatives.
• Competitive salary and benefits package, including extra holiday options (including flexible bank holidays and the option to purchase additional holidays), life assurance, and private medical insurance.

What we expect from you:

As part of your training with us, you will be provided with study leave to support you with completing your professional qualification. Completing a professional qualification is a substantial commitment and it's worth taking this into consideration before applying, as you will be required to study in your spare time outside of your working hours. You’ll also be provided with study leave in the run up to your exams. You'll need to be focused, committed, and organise your time well to balance all the requirements of being a trainee.

Join the firm that’s shaping the accountants of the future. We’re growing fast, and we want you to grow with us. With digital‑first innovation and an inclusive culture that powers progress, this is your chance to shape what’s next. This isn’t just a graduate scheme. It’s the start of something bigger.