At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Graduate Trainee Accountant and develop your finance skills while making a real impact.
- Company: Leicestershire County Council, a supportive and progressive workplace.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent contract, mentorship, and professional qualification support.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Kickstart your finance career with hands-on experience and dedicated training.
- Qualifications: Must have or be on track for a 2:1 Honours degree in a relevant subject.
The predicted salary is between 28605 - 39165 £ per year.
Organisation: Leicestershire County Council
Location: County Hall, Leicester Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE3 8RA
Salary: £28,605 - £39,165 per annum (Pro rata for part time) – Pay award pending
Working Hours: Full time, 37 hours per week, Monday – Friday
Contract type: Permanent
Closing Date: 2nd August 2026
About the Role
As a Graduate Trainee Accountant you will develop towards a future finance manager and leader, completing your CIPFA Professional Accounting Qualification (PAQ). You will rotate through substantive roles across the Strategic Finance Function, gaining exposure to financial control, financial planning and year-end closedown within a supportive environment. This post is career graded (Grade 8–10) and starts at grade 8. Progression depends on successful completion of PAQ examinations and demonstration of required competencies in each rotation. You will receive dedicated support from a Training Manager and mentorship throughout the process.
Responsibilities
- Participate in financial control and planning activities.
- Contribute to year-end closedown procedures.
- Support the delivery of an efficient accounting service across the Strategic Finance Function.
About You – Minimum Requirements
- Hold or be on track to obtain an Honours degree (minimum 2:1) or NVQ Level 6 in a relevant subject.
- Demonstrate the ability to tailor communications to meet diverse needs and maintain key messages.
- Organise your own workload to achieve objectives in order of priority.
- Take action to implement new ideas within your area of responsibility to solve problems.
- Persuade and encourage others to seek improvements and increased efficiency.
- Work effectively in teams and demonstrate flexibility to meet changing demands.
- Show strong IT skills using Microsoft Office products such as Word and Excel (or equivalent).
Desirable
- Experience of finance-related work such as cash handling, recording transactions and income and expenditure accounts.
- Knowledge of developments in Local Government and Public sector finance, particularly relating to Leicestershire County Council.
- Ability to interpret and use financial information to inform decisions and manage risks.
- Experience securing commitment of others and obtaining acceptance of change within your team.
- Use of customer feedback and consultation to guide service improvements.
Reasonable Adjustments
Reasonable adjustments will be considered for applicants with a disability. We are a Disability Confident Employer.
Contact Information
Gurpreet Kooner, Strategic Finance Manager Telephone: 0116 305 5433
Antony Russell, Senior Finance Business Partner Telephone: 0116 305 1175
Contact Details:
Leicestershire County Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Trainee Accountant
✨Tap into University Career Services
If you're a student or recent grad eyeing a trainee role in banking or financial services, your university career services are your secret weapon. They often have connections with firms, and can guide you to exclusive openings that aren't advertised widely, so make sure to get in touch!
✨Get Involved in Finance Societies
Joining finance-related societies or clubs at your university can seriously up your game. They often host networking events, guest speaker sessions, and workshops that can connect you directly with industry professionals and potential employers.
✨Show Your Passion Through Projects
Try working on finance-related projects or internships, even if they're unpaid. It shows your commitment and gives you something to discuss in interviews. Plus, if you've got a blog or a portfolio detailing your findings on market trends, that can really impress recruiters!
✨Use Our Website to Find Opportunities
We at StudySmarter recommend that you regularly check our website for trainee opportunities at leading companies like Leicestershire County Council. They often post openings directly there, so don't miss out on the chance to apply and show what you've got!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Trainee Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show your numbers!:In banking and financial services, we love a bit of quantification. Be sure to highlight any relevant coursework, grades, or projects that showcase your analytical skills. If you've tackled math-heavy subjects or have experience with financial modelling, let that shine on your CV!
Tailor your application to finance:Don't just copy and paste a generic cover letter; weave in your passion for finance and share any relevant experiences or internships, no matter how small. Writing about your motivations and learning potential in relation to the role will help us see you fit in at Leicestershire County Council.
Certifications can set you apart:If you've got any finance-related certifications (think CFA Level 1, ACCA, or even online courses), make sure to include them! They show initiative and a commitment to your career in banking, which we really appreciate.
Proofread with a fine-tooth comb:In finance, attention to detail is crucial! Spam your application with typos or poor formatting, and we may flag you as 'not detail-oriented'. So, let’s double-check everything. A clear structure in your CV and cover letter will also help your application stand out. Remember, apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leicestershire County Council
✨Brush Up on Your Financial Knowledge
Make sure you’re comfortable with financial concepts and terminology. The interview may dive into areas like risk assessment or investment strategies, so revisiting some core principles and current trends in the banking sector will really help us stand out at Leicestershire County Council.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to encounter case studies or hypothetical financial scenarios where you’ll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Practising with examples can help us articulate our thought process clearly and show how we approach problem-solving specific to the banking and financial services sector.
✨Highlight Your Learning Agility
As a trainee, they’re looking for potential over experience. We should emphasise our willingness to learn and adapt. Be ready to discuss how we’ve taken on challenges in the past, showcasing our growth mindset and eagerness to dive into the banking world with both feet.
✨Showcase Your Interest in the Industry
Let your passion for banking shine through! Discuss any relevant coursework, internships, or even personal finance projects you’ve explored. This not only demonstrates our knowledge but also our genuine enthusiasm for a career in banking at Leicestershire County Council.
