At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in auditing and financial analysis while working with diverse clients.
- Company: Join Saffery, a people-focused firm with a rich history and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible work arrangements, and generous annual leave.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with mentorship and real-world learning in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 2:1 degree and minimum UCAS points required; AAT qualifications welcome.
- Other info: Engage in social events and develop valuable relationships throughout your training.
The predicted salary is between 8000 - 14000 £ per month.
Overview
Graduate Audit Trainee (ICAS) – Inverness – September 2026. This programme is a three-year training contract with support and access to tuition centres. Trainees study towards the ICAS qualification (AAT Level 4 exemptions may apply if eligible).
Your role and development
Your growth comes from valuable work experience and real-world learning, not just exams. You will progress through the stages of an audit from planning to completion, work on audit and accounts preparation assignments for clients across diverse industries, learn how to conduct client reviews, audit testing, and financial analysis, visit client sites and build relationships to understand their business. Over time, you will take on more responsibility to understand the full audit cycle. The firm provides mentorship, structured training, off-site trainee programmes, and regular social events.
Responsibilities
- Be taken through the various stages of an audit from planning to completion.
- Work on audit and accounts preparation assignments for clients across diverse industries.
- Learn how to conduct client reviews, audit testing, and financial analysis.
- Visit client sites and build strong relationships to gain a deeper understanding of their business.
- Progressively take on more responsibility, enabling you to understand the full audit cycle.
Qualifications and requirements
- 2:1 undergraduate degree (expected or obtained) in any discipline.
- A minimum of 120 UCAS points from your top 3 A Levels (or equivalent), excluding General Studies and AS Levels.
- A minimum of 6 (or B) in GCSE Maths and English Language (or equivalent).
- We welcome applications from candidates who are AAT qualified. If you have more than 12 months relevant experience within a training contract at another firm, consider exploring part-qualified opportunities on the Experienced Hire vacancy page.
Programme and exemptions
If you’re AAT Level 4 qualified, you will be eligible for exemptions; otherwise, all trainees are asked to complete the full ICAS. We believe studying alongside a cohort gives the best chance of exam success.
Dates
Window 1: 15 September 2025 – 3 October 2025. Window 2: 3 November 2025 – 21 November 2025.
Application and selection
We encourage early applications. Due to high volume, you may experience delays, but all submissions are reviewed fairly. If you are selected for an in-person interview, travel expenses will be reimbursed. If applicable, please include your qualification details in the academic section of the application. If you have extenuating circumstances affecting academic performance, contact EarlyCareersTalent@saffery.com before submitting.
What We’ll Offer You
We provide core and flexible benefits tailored to your needs, including:
- Financial support & flexibility: competitive salary, paid overtime or time off in lieu, profit-sharing (approx. £1,000 per year), generous annual leave, flexible work arrangements, and contributory pension (5% salary match).
- Work-life balance & wellbeing: buddy scheme or line manager support, agile working policy (up to three days WFH; early months may require up to four days in the office), health assessments, GP access, cancer screenings, and mental health resources.
- Personal development and belonging: mentorship, career progression opportunities, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion programme, and employee networks (e.g., Accessibility, Cultural Heritage, Faith, LGBTQ+, Social Mobility, Women).
Who we are
Saffery is a partner-led, people-focused firm of chartered accountants, tax and business advisers. Since 1855, we’ve built long-term relationships with diverse, high-profile clients across varied sectors. We are part of Nexia, a worldwide network offering local insight with global reach. We foster an informal, inclusive culture where people can be themselves and enjoy challenging, rewarding careers.
Ready to start your journey?
Explore Life At Saffery and Apply Today.
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Graduate Audit Trainee (ICAS) - Inverness - September 2026 employer: Saffery
Contact Detail:
Saffery Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Audit Trainee (ICAS) - Inverness - September 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees or alumni from your university who work in audit. They can give you insider tips and might even refer you, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to audit and finance. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online resources to get comfortable with your responses.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm for the role! During interviews, share why you're passionate about audit and how you see yourself growing within the company. It’s all about making that personal connection.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Audit Trainee (ICAS) - Inverness - September 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Graduate Audit Trainee role. Highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or internships that showcase your understanding of audit processes and financial analysis.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about auditing and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Be genuine and let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Academic Achievements: Don’t forget to include your academic qualifications clearly in your application. If you have AAT qualifications or relevant experience, make sure to highlight these as they can give you an edge in the selection process.
Apply Early!: We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible. Early applications are more likely to be reviewed promptly, so don’t wait until the last minute. Head over to our website and get started on your application today!
How to prepare for a job interview at Saffery
✨Know Your Audit Basics
Before the interview, brush up on the fundamentals of auditing. Understand the audit cycle from planning to completion, and be ready to discuss how you would approach different stages. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to learning.
✨Showcase Your Academic Achievements
Make sure to highlight your academic qualifications, especially if you have a 2:1 degree or AAT qualifications. Be prepared to discuss how your studies have prepared you for this role, particularly in areas like financial analysis and client reviews.
✨Demonstrate Relationship-Building Skills
Since the role involves visiting client sites and building relationships, think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully built rapport with others. This could be through group projects, part-time jobs, or even volunteering.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the training programme, mentorship opportunities, and the firm's culture. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the firm is the right fit for you. Remember, interviews are a two-way street!