At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our trainee programme to kickstart your career in investment management.
- Company: Vanguard, a revolutionary investment company focused on client interests.
- Benefits: Earn £28,000 per year plus expenses and gain valuable industry experience.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Network with over 300 trainees and make meaningful contributions to the business.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your curiosity and a great attitude.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 28000 £ per year.
As a trainee on the Vanguard Investment20/20 programme, you will be introduced to the investment management industry, gain industry knowledge, experience and develop relationships enabling you to progress your career. You will have opportunities to meet and network with over 300 trainees across the industry and participate in socials and insight events.
Vanguard is an investment company unlike any other. It was founded in the US in 1975 on a simple but revolutionary idea: that an investment company should manage its funds solely in the interests of its clients. We’re a mutual fund, which means the people that invest their money with us are also our owners. That makes our mission simple; to create value for our investors. We stand for low-cost, uncomplicated investing and we’re proud to help millions of people by giving them the best chance for investment success.
We have a strong partnership with Investment20/20; many teams across our business have benefitted from the skills and unique perspectives of talented young people who joined us through this programme. To date, we’ve welcomed 30 trainees and many of them have gone on to take permanent roles with us. As a trainee on the Investment20/20 programme, you will be introduced to the investment management industry, gain industry knowledge, experience and develop relationships enabling you to progress your career. You will have opportunities to meet and network with over 200 trainees across the industry and participate in socials and insight events. In 2026 we will continue our partnership by offering 3, 12-month trainee roles in our Manchester office.
You may work in one of non-front office areas (please note, there is no opportunity to join front-office operations through this experience). No matter which team you join, you will be given meaningful work that will make a real contribution to our business. Through the recruitment process, you will meet with our Talent Acquisition specialists, who will help you to understand the options and match you up with a team who can offer meaningful work to advance your career at Vanguard, or elsewhere.
Our opportunities in 2026 will start in late September, and we are inviting applications from non-graduate school leavers. You don’t need experience, just a sharp mind, curiosity, and a great attitude. You will be paid the equivalent of £28,000 per year plus expenses to help you with initial costs (like buying new work clothes or your travel expenses). Once you finish the traineeship, if you want to stay on and you have made a good impression, the HR team will help you to apply for permanent roles.
Qualifications for the job
We are looking for school/college leavers who are keen to learn and start their careers in financial services. You will be a brilliant fit for this opportunity if you are bright, hardworking, and can show us how you are curious and willing to learn about investing. We look for people who care - about doing great work for our investors, and about caring for each other - people who are inclusive, have a high level of integrity and are naturally tenacious. If that sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.
How to apply
Note: you are applying for the Programme, the Talent Acquisition team will match successful candidates to the team that best suits their skills. Please apply online by submitting a CV as a named PDF document.
Application Process
After submitting your CV, you will be invited to complete a short online assessment called ‘Arctic Shores’. If you score highly in your assessment, you will be contacted by a member of our Talent Acquisition team who will ask you a few questions to add to your application. If selected, you will then complete an Assessment Day that will take place at our offices where you will interview with potential managers. Successful candidates will then be offered.
Closing Date: 27th July 2026 - Start Date: September 2026. Please note we recruit on a rolling basis and roles may close before the stated date, you are advised to apply early.
How We Work
Vanguard has a hybrid working model, which means most teams work Tuesday-Thursday in the office and Monday and Friday from home. For some jobs we may need you to be in the office Monday-Friday. We will discuss the working pattern with you during the interview process.
Inclusion Statement
Vanguard’s continued commitment to diversity and inclusion is firmly rooted in our culture. Every decision we make to best serve our clients, crew (internally employees are referred to as crew), and communities is guided by one simple statement: “Do the right thing.” We believe that a critical aspect of doing the right thing requires building diverse, inclusive, and highly effective teams of individuals who are as unique as the clients they serve. We empower our crew to contribute their distinct strengths to achieving Vanguard’s core purpose through our values. When all crew members feel valued and included, our ability to collaborate and innovate is amplified, and we are united in delivering on Vanguard's core purpose: to take a stand for all investors, to treat them fairly, and to give them the best chance for investment success.
Our commitment to equal employment opportunity
Vanguard is an equal opportunity employer. Vanguard is committed to providing all crew members a working environment that is free from discrimination, prejudice and bias. Through this Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy, Vanguard reaffirms its commitment to equal employment opportunity for all applicants and crew members without regard to race, colour, national origin or ancestry, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, veteran or military status. In addition, Vanguard prohibits discrimination based on genetic information, as well as any other protected characteristic. We will make reasonable accommodations if you need assistance completing this application or to otherwise participate in the application process. Please inform careers@vanguard.com if you need any help.
How We Work
Vanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members, designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning, collaboration, and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.
Investment2020 Manchester employer: The Vanguard Group
The Vanguard Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture in Manchester that fosters innovation and collaboration. Employees benefit from comprehensive growth opportunities, mentorship from industry leaders, and the chance to work on cutting-edge AI-driven projects that shape the future of marketing technology. With a strong commitment to employee well-being and professional development, Vanguard stands out as a rewarding place for those seeking meaningful careers in tech.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Investment2020 Manchester
✨Get Involved in Investment Communities
Join local investment clubs or online forums focused on asset management. Engaging with these communities can give you insights into the industry and might even open doors for referrals when companies like The Vanguard Group are looking for trainees.
✨Attend Finance and Asset Management Events
Make it a point to attend finance-related meetups, workshops, or networking events in your area. These are golden opportunities to meet professionals from the asset management field and get your face known, which can set you apart when applying to places like The Vanguard Group.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
Don’t overlook your university's career services! They often have exclusive partnerships with companies in asset management and can help you find trainee openings first. Plus, they may host career fairs where you can meet recruiters from firms like The Vanguard Group.
✨Tailor Your Approach When Applying
When applying for the trainee position at The Vanguard Group, make sure you highlight any relevant coursework or projects related to investment and asset management. This shows your genuine interest and readiness to step into a role that could jumpstart your career.
We think you need these skills to ace Investment2020 Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Analytical Skills:In investment and asset management, hiring managers love to see strong analytical skills. When crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or internship experiences where you demonstrated your ability to analyse data or contribute to investment strategies. Use specific examples to showcase your analytical thought process and quantitative skills.
Quantify Your Achievements:In this field, numbers speak louder than words. When listing your past experiences, try to quantify your achievements. For instance, mention the percentage by which you improved a project's outcome or how you contributed to a team achieving specific goals. This gives potential employers a clearer picture of your impact and capabilities.
Tailor Your Cover Letter for Learning Potential:As a trainee, the emphasis should be on your motivation to learn and grow in the investment-asset-management field. In your cover letter, express why you are excited about joining The Vanguard Group specifically, and discuss how this role aligns with your career aspirations. Show that you’re eager to soak up knowledge and contribute positively to the team.
Polish Your CV with Relevant Coursework:Don’t forget to include relevant coursework and any finance or investment certifications you've completed on your CV. This is especially important for a trainee position as it showcases your foundational knowledge in the field. Make sure to highlight any projects or case studies that are applicable, so The Vanguard Group can see you’ve got the basics down!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Vanguard Group
✨Brush Up on Financial Modelling
In investment asset management, having a firm grasp of financial modelling is crucial. Before your interview with The Vanguard Group, make sure you can confidently discuss your understanding of key financial concepts and perhaps even run through a basic model or two. Being able to showcase your analytical skills will definitely impress them!
✨Study Current Market Trends
Make sure to stay updated on current market trends and economic news. During your trainee interview, you might be asked about how these trends can affect investments. Being well-versed in recent events not only shows your interest in the field but also prepares you to discuss relevant case studies or examples when asked.
✨Show Your Willingness to Learn
As a trainee, what they're really looking for is your potential to grow in the role. Be ready to talk about your eagerness to learn and adapt. Share examples from your studies or any relevant experience that highlight your commitment to becoming a knowledgeable professional in asset management.
✨Have Clear Questions Prepared
Towards the end of the interview at The Vanguard Group, you'll likely have a chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful queries about their training process or the types of projects you'll be involved in. This not only shows your interest but also gives you insight into what your day-to-day will look like in this trainee role.
