At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Business Services Graduate Scheme and help clients achieve financial success.
- Company: PKF Smith Cooper, a top UK accounting firm with a fun and supportive culture.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 25 days leave, social events, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic office in Derby with modern facilities and a focus on team growth.
- Why this job: Earn while you learn and make a real impact in the world of finance.
- Qualifications: Any degree with a strong academic record; no prior experience needed.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 42000 £ per year.
Location: Derby
Contract: Full-time (37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday)
Salary: Competitive starting salary with increases at key milestones to qualification.
Reports to: Business Services Manager
Earn as you learn on our Business Services Graduate Scheme, as you work and study your way to becoming a successful, qualified accountant for PKF. No previous accounting experience or maths-related degree is required!
Accounting is so much more than crunching numbers – it involves building relationships and using your natural problem-solving skills to deliver expert insights that help people make smarter financial decisions.
You can make a real difference to the people and businesses behind the figures. Working in an ambitious and industry-leading Business Services team, you will help a diverse range of clients across the Midlands achieve their financial goals and, ultimately, long-term success.
Forget the stereotype that working in accounts is boring – our fun and social workplace culture makes sure that life at PKF Smith Cooper is anything but. With regular events and activities plus our very own social committee, we know how to have a good time!
We are proud to champion the growth of our team members, from graduates right through to company partners. Whatever your accounting career ambitions, we can make them happen. As well as receiving on-the-job training and support from your team, PKF Smith Cooper offers a variety of professional development and progression opportunities.
For a varied and fulfilling career with significant earning potential, apply to join our Business Services Graduate Scheme today.
Job descriptionOn our Business Services Graduate Scheme, you will really get to know our clients and build strong relationships with clients by understanding their unique financial challenges and goals, providing customised solutions, and adapting strategies as circumstances change. Ultimately, the goal is to help clients achieve financial stability, growth, and long-term success.
You would join us on an ACA or ACCA training contract, which provides you with the opportunity to work with a variety of businesses across different sectors – from national companies to entrepreneurial start-ups – and develop your knowledge as well as your experience in the process.
You will gain valuable technical skills, a broad commercial understanding, and in-depth knowledge of different industry sectors on your journey to becoming a qualified Accountant at PKF Smith Cooper.
Throughout our Business Services Graduate Scheme, you will receive the specialist support you need to reach your full potential in Business Services. With an ambitious and supportive team behind you, you will become a key player in delivering and developing our Business Services as the division grows alongside our wider practice.
Responsibilities- Compile and analyse financial data to create comprehensive financial statements and reports, providing clients with a clear and insightful picture of their financial health.
- Work with our tax team to assist in preparing tax returns to minimise clients\' tax burdens while staying fully tax-compliant.
- Act as a key player in a supportive team, contributing fresh ideas and dedication to meet and exceed client expectations.
- Contribute to the core financial documents of clients and support their financial journey, helping them make informed decisions and achieve success.
Training with a firm like PKF Smith Cooper offers depth and variety in your client assignments. You will benefit from exposure to a wide range of work with businesses of all sizes, many local to our offices. Our partners take a direct interest in the development and progression of our graduates, aiming to equip every graduate with the skills to become a future leader.
As an ICAEW and ACCA Approved Training Employer, we are recognised for our high-quality training and development.
Your skills and qualities:
- Any degree at 2:1 or above, with a strong academic record at A Level and GCSE.
- A genuine interest in pursuing a career in accountancy.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking abilities.
- Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality work.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a team and adapt to changing priorities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office is beneficial.
- Driving licence and car are not required but will be highly beneficial for travel to client sites.
- No prior experience required.
PKF Smith Cooper is the 12th largest accounting firm by UK fee income (Accountancy Age Top 50+50) and a member of global network PKF Global. Through PKF, we operate in unison with member firms in 150 countries to share ideas, expertise and specialist resources for the benefit of our team and clients.
Our team of award-winning accountants and business advisors plans to double the size of our company within the next 5 years. As a fast-growing firm and accredited ICAEW and ACCA Approved Training Employer, we are passionate about developing ‘homegrown talent’. We can help you achieve your potential through our comprehensive training, development, and progression programme.
We aim to equip every graduate with the skills to become a future leader – our very own managing partner started at PKF Smith Cooper as a graduate, so who knows what you could achieve through our graduate scheme!
Why Derby?At our headquarters located in Pride Park, you’ll find our main office with three floors of bright, open plan work spaces, breakout areas and modern meeting rooms. Fully equipped kitchens and dining spaces are perfect for spending time away from our desks, and you can even enjoy our private, on-site gym.
What’s in it for you?Our benefits package has been shaped by our values and our people. Here are some of the perks you can expect as part of Team PKF Smith Cooper:
- A flexible working policy and dress-for-your-diary scheme to empower you to perform at your best (subject to manager discretion).
- 25 days annual leave plus statutory bank holidays, with option to purchase additional leave and a birthday off.
- Prize draws four times a year for values awards—prizes include spa days, AirPods, or trips to Paris.
- A busy social calendar of team events and committees, plus monthly book club and mental health initiatives.
- Life assurance, healthcare cashback, and discounts on gym memberships and retailers (e.g., Tesco, River Island, Expedia).
- Free personal finance and mortgage advice from our financial planning experts.
- Travel opportunities with PKF One Week More and secondment opportunities worldwide.
Apply now if you believe you have what we are looking for. If you do not tick 100% of the boxes, we still encourage you to apply.
If you have any questions, please contact the People team at careers@pkfsmithcooper.com or 01332 332021.
We only accept CVs from partnered agencies. Unsolicited CVs will be ignored. If you would like to partner with us, please contact the People team via the details above.
#J-18808-LjbffrBusiness Services (Accounts) - Derby Graduate 2026 Business Services · Derby - Headquarters employer: PKF Smith Cooper Limited
PKF Smith Cooper is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its team members, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment in Derby. With a strong focus on professional development through its Business Services Graduate Scheme, employees benefit from comprehensive training, flexible working policies, and a vibrant social culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. The modern office space, coupled with unique perks such as a private gym and regular team events, makes PKF Smith Cooper an attractive place for aspiring accountants to build a rewarding career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Services (Accounts) - Derby Graduate 2026 Business Services · Derby - Headquarters
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like PKF Smith Cooper Limited. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Services (Accounts) - Derby Graduate 2026 Business Services · Derby - Headquarters
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to PKF Smith Cooper Limited.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on PKF Smith Cooper Limited's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at PKF Smith Cooper Limited
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with PKF Smith Cooper Limited.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at PKF Smith Cooper Limited will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former PKF Smith Cooper Limited employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
