At a Glance
- Tasks: Support multi-million-pound budgets and contribute to financial planning and analysis.
- Company: Join Nottingham City Council, a forward-thinking and inclusive employer.
- Benefits: Fully funded CIPFA qualification, hybrid working, and flexible arrangements.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive culture with clear pathways to senior finance roles.
- Why this job: Gain real responsibility and make a difference in public finance from day one.
- Qualifications: No prior finance experience needed; just a passion for numbers and problem-solving.
The predicted salary is between 26824 - 35412 £ per year.
Contract Type: Fixed-Term
Working Hours: Full-Time
Worker Type: Hybrid
Salary: Starting salary: £26,824 - £35,412 per annum (pro‑rate for part‑time) (Pay award pending) as you progress through exams
Location: Loxley House, Station Street, Nottingham, NG2 3NG
Finance & Resources Directorate
Trainee Accountant (CIPFA) – 3.5 Year Programme
About the Programme
Our 3.5‑year fully funded CIPFA programme gives you everything you need to become a qualified public finance professional – combining study with meaningful, hands‑on experience from day one.
You’ll be actively involved in real financial work, including:
- Supporting multi‑million‑pound budgets across key services
- Contributing to financial planning, forecasting and decision‑making
- Analysing data to help shape services and identify savings
- Working with senior stakeholders to provide financial insight and advice
- Assisting with year‑end accounts, audit processes and statutory returns
What you’ll experience
You’ll rotate across different finance teams, giving you exposure to areas such as:
- Financial planning and budget setting
- Capital and technical accounting
- Business partnering with services
- Financial systems and data analysis
What you’ll get in return
- Fully funded CIPFA qualification (the gold standard in public finance)
- A structured development programme with clear progression
- A dedicated mentor and strong study support
- Real responsibility from day one
- A clear pathway into senior finance roles
What we’re looking for
- Curious and eager to learn
- Strong with numbers and problem‑solving
- Interested in how money is used to deliver public services
- Organised, motivated and adaptable
- A strong communicator who can work with a range of people
No prior finance experience is required – just the drive to build a career.
The minimum requirements are set by the professional body, CIPFA. These can be found here.
A day in the role could include…
- Meeting with service managers to review budgets and spending
- Supporting financial forecasts and identifying trends or pressures
- Helping prepare reports that inform key decisions
- Working with systems like Oracle Fusion to analyse financial data
- Contributing to projects that improve efficiency and deliver savings
- Supporting compliance, audit activity and financial controls across the organisation
We’re proud to offer a supportive, forward‑thinking environment where you can grow your career while making a difference.
Benefits include:
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Hybrid working (typically 2 days in the office)
- Flexible working arrangements
- Ongoing learning and development opportunities
- Inclusive, supportive and collaborative culture
Our commitment to inclusion
At Nottingham City Council, we are proud to be an inclusive employer where everyone is welcomed, valued and respected. We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve and creating a culture where people can thrive.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences, and ensure fairness, dignity and respect for all.
Disability Confident Employer
We are a Disability Confident Employer and actively encourage applications from disabled people. If you wish to apply under the Guaranteed Interview Scheme, please let us know as part of your application. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.
Armed Forces Covenant
We proudly support the Armed Forces Covenant and welcome applications from serving personnel, veterans, reservists and military families.
Championing diversity
We particularly welcome applications from:
- Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities
- LGBTQ+ communities
- Disabled people
These groups are currently underrepresented in our workforce, and we want to better reflect our city through our recruitment.
Trainee Accountant (Level 1) employer: Nottingham City Council
Nottingham City Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being of both employees and the families they serve. With a strong focus on professional development, employees have access to ongoing training and growth opportunities, ensuring they can make a meaningful impact in their roles. Located in the vibrant city of Nottingham, the council provides a collaborative environment where social workers can thrive while contributing to the community's welfare.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Accountant (Level 1)
✨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 Nottingham City 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 Trainee Accountant (Level 1)
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 Nottingham City 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 Nottingham City 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 Nottingham City 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 Nottingham City Council.
