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- Tasks: Assist in business development campaigns and conduct focused desktop research.
- Company: Join BDO, a supportive firm that values personal connections and diverse backgrounds.
- Benefits: Earn £25,200 per annum with well-being benefits and a vibrant office culture.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in corporate finance and work on exciting M&A projects.
- Qualifications: Second-year student seeking a third-year placement with a minimum 2:2 degree.
- Other info: Located in Manchester, this role offers excellent learning and networking opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 25200 - 25200 £ per year.
BDO is big enough to matter. Personal enough to care. That’s BDO. This is a year-long Industrial Placement in our Manchester hub, starting Monday, 21 September 2026, with a firm-wide induction. You’ll work with real responsibility and purpose across a variety of companies, clients, and projects, in a team that supports your learning and success. The Mergers and Acquisitions advisory team provides services on acquisitions, divestments, buy-outs and capital raisings for corporates, private equity houses and other clients, helping them make the right decisions. We preserve and build on our culture and look for people from all backgrounds who share these qualities.
For your placement you will be a Research Assistant assisting in the delivery of business development campaigns and providing focused desktop research of public record information. You’ll gain experience and understanding of corporate finance and delivering business development campaigns. Salary is £25,200 per annum. You’ll need to live within a commutable distance of the office you apply to, as relocation support is not provided. Time in the office matters for learning, building relationships, and being part of our culture.
Role and responsibilities- Research Assistant assisting in the delivery of business development campaigns and providing focused desktop research of public record information.
- Gain experience and understanding of corporate finance and delivering business development campaigns.
- Work with the Mergers and Acquisitions advisory team on a range of transactions and client-facing activities as part of the placement.
- Second-year student on a four-year undergraduate degree, seeking a third-year work placement.
- On track for a minimum 2:2 degree in any discipline.
- Three A-levels or equivalent at grades A*-C (excluding General Studies and Extended Projects) or four Scottish Advanced Highers at grade A-B. UCAS points are not used; evidence may be requested if you are successful.
- GCSEs at grade 4 or above in Maths and English, or Scottish National 5 grade A-C.
- Right to work in the UK from the start date.
- Online application form.
- Online assessments (option to sit in our office with equipment provided if needed).
- Video interview.
- Virtual assessment centre.
- Final interview in-person.
We’ll keep you updated at each stage and share resources to help you prepare. We do not use AI in any part of our candidate screening process. Every application is reviewed by a person.
Location: Manchester hub with 18 offices across the UK; relocation not provided. Time in the office matters for learning, relationship-building, and culture. We’re serious about well-being and offer benefits that support you inside and outside of work. Apply now.
2026 Advisory Industrial Placement Programme in Manchester employer: TargetJobs UK
Contact Detail:
TargetJobs UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Advisory Industrial Placement Programme in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know BDO and its culture! Research the company values and recent projects. This will help you connect your experiences to what they care about during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Use mock interviews with friends or career services to get comfortable with common questions. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it’s your turn.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past interns at BDO on LinkedIn. They can share insights and tips that could give you an edge in your application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’ll keep you updated throughout the process, so you won’t be left in the dark.
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Advisory Industrial Placement Programme in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for the Advisory Industrial Placement Programme. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the role, especially in research and business development. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm shine through in your written application. Share why you're interested in corporate finance and the Mergers and Acquisitions advisory team. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about what we do at BDO!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and overly complex sentences. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make it easy for us to understand your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at TargetJobs UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand BDO's services, especially in Mergers and Acquisitions. Familiarise yourself with recent transactions and trends in corporate finance. This will show your genuine interest and help you engage in meaningful conversations.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Rehearse common interview questions related to business development and research roles. Think about how your skills align with the responsibilities of a Research Assistant. Practising with a friend or in front of a mirror can boost your confidence.
✨Dress to Impress
Even if the interview is virtual, dress professionally. It sets the right tone and shows that you take the opportunity seriously. A smart outfit can also help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the team culture, specific projects, or growth opportunities within BDO. It demonstrates your enthusiasm and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
