Graduate Corporate Tax Trainee (ACA/CTA) - London - January 2027

Graduate Corporate Tax Trainee (ACA/CTA) - London - January 2027

London Trainee 25000 - 32000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Saffery

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support tax compliance and assist with client queries in a creative industry-focused team.
  • Company: Join Saffery, a collaborative firm dedicated to the creative sector.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible work, and generous annual leave.
  • Other info: Mentorship and career progression opportunities in a supportive environment.
  • Why this job: Gain valuable experience in corporate tax while working with exciting clients in film and gaming.
  • Qualifications: 2:1 degree or equivalent, with strong A Level and GCSE results.

The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.

We’re looking for ambitious individuals to join our corporate tax team as trainees studying towards the ACA/CTA joint qualification. The training contract lasts three and a half years and includes full support from tuition centres. AAT Level 4 qualified candidates are eligible for exemptions. All trainees complete the full ACA.

The Film, TV and Video Games group supports creative sector clients. You will work within a creative‑industry focused team under the national Corporate Tax team, helping clients navigate tax incentives. Transfer to other teams is possible if the chosen team is filled.

Key Dates

  • Application deadline: 7 June 2026.
  • The anticipated start date is early January.

Responsibilities

  • Support the tax compliance process, including tax accounting and preparing tax returns.
  • Assist with technical research and respond to client queries and internal questions.
  • Identify advisory opportunities within client portfolios and contribute to tax planning discussions.
  • Gain insight into complex tax areas such as capital allowances, R&D tax relief, transfer pricing, and international tax.
  • Assist in stand‑alone tax advisory projects – structuring acquisitions and disposals, transaction support, and due diligence.
  • For the Film, TV and Video Games team, prepare tax credit claims for production companies and the associated filing requirements.

Qualifications

  • 2:1 undergraduate degree (in any discipline) or equivalent.
  • Minimum of 120 UCAS points from top 3 A Levels (or equivalent).
  • Minimum grade 6 (or B) in GCSE Maths and English Language.
  • AAT qualification is welcome.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary; profit‑sharing scheme (approx. £1,000 per year).
  • Generous annual leave and flexible work arrangements.
  • Contributory pension plan (5% salary match).
  • Buddy scheme, agile working policy, health assessments, GP access, and cancer screenings.
  • Mentorship, career progression, and participation in the ED&I programme.
  • Volunteer to join one of our people networks (Accessibility, Cultural Heritage, Faith, LGBTQ+, Social Mobility and Women).

About Saffery & Our Values

We value collaboration, enthusiasm and integrity, and encourage ownership and continuous improvement. We support employees through mentorship, structured training, and social events. You will work in a close‑knit team that delivers high‑quality work and fosters a two‑way relationship of mutual respect and learning.

Graduate Corporate Tax Trainee (ACA/CTA) - London - January 2027 employer: Saffery

Saffery & is an exceptional employer for aspiring tax professionals, offering a supportive environment where collaboration and continuous improvement are at the forefront. With a focus on the creative industries, employees benefit from tailored mentorship, structured training, and opportunities for career progression, all while enjoying flexible work arrangements and a competitive salary package. The vibrant London location enhances the experience, providing access to a dynamic cultural scene and networking opportunities within the Film, TV, and Video Games sectors.

Saffery

Contact Details:

Saffery Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Graduate Corporate Tax Trainee (ACA/CTA) - London - January 2027

Network Like a Pro

Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!

Ace the Interview

Prepare for your interviews by researching common questions and practicing your answers. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to build confidence. Remember, it’s your chance to shine and show them why you’re the perfect fit for the team!

Show Your Passion

When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for the role and the industry shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in corporate tax and how you can contribute to the creative sector. It makes a huge difference!

Apply Through Our Website

Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.

We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Corporate Tax Trainee (ACA/CTA) - London - January 2027

Tax Compliance
Tax Accounting
Preparing Tax Returns
Technical Research
Client Query Response
Advisory Opportunities Identification
Tax Planning

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the corporate tax field shine through. We want to see why you're excited about joining our team and how you can contribute to our creative sector clients.

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight relevant experiences, skills, and qualifications that align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description. We love seeing how your background fits with what we do!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us your story. Use it to explain why you’re interested in the ACA/CTA qualification and how you can support our tax compliance process. Keep it engaging and personal!

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the Graduate Corporate Tax Trainee position. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at Saffery

Know Your Tax Basics

Brush up on your knowledge of corporate tax, especially areas like capital allowances and R&D tax relief. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your enthusiasm for the role and your understanding of the industry.

Showcase Your Team Spirit

Since the role involves working in a close-knit team, be prepared to share examples of how you've collaborated with others in the past. Highlighting your ability to work well with diverse groups will resonate with their values of collaboration and mutual respect.

Prepare Thoughtful Questions

Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the training process for ACA/CTA or how the team supports creative sector clients. It shows you're genuinely interested and have done your homework.

Demonstrate Your Passion for the Creative Sector

Since you'll be supporting clients in the Film, TV, and Video Games industries, express your interest in these fields. Share any relevant experiences or projects that connect your background to the creative sector, making you a more appealing candidate.