Location : Derby

Do you enjoy maths, problem-solving and building strong relationships? Do you want to continue learning but also feel ready to start earning? Are you looking for an entry-level role with high-flying career potential? Then the PKF Smith Cooper apprenticeship program could be the perfect next step for you.

We are a Midlands-based accounting and advisory company, with a strong regional reputation and globally recognised brand. Several of our partners and directors started out as apprentices, and it’s their hard work and drive that has got us to where we are today, which is why we’re passionate about providing entry-level opportunities and investing in homegrown talent.

You will love our inclusive and empowering company culture, with regular social activities that give you the chance to get to know people away from your desk as well as team committees and initiatives that ensure we all have a say in life at PKF Smith Cooper. From annual summer socials for the whole company to departmental events, sports competitions, walking challenges, book clubs, and more, there is something for everyone to get involved with.

About the role:

We are looking for an apprentice to join our Audit Department in Derby as an Apprentice Audit Associate. You will work with our specialist audit team and help our clients from various sectors across the region, gaining practical experience while also advancing your skills and knowledge through classroom learning.

This is a great opportunity for a motivated candidate to join a thriving team in our office in Derby.

As an apprentice, you will have to take exams (AAT) to consolidate your knowledge and advance your career prospects within the department and firm. We provide comprehensive study support as you work towards your AAT exams, including regular check-ins and support with goal setting from our dedicated Learning & Development Team plus one-to-one guidance on balancing work and study through our buddy scheme.

The important work you will be doing:

On our Apprenticeship Scheme, you will get to know our clients and build close relationships to better understand their needs. Your role will involve assisting and supporting the team with a diverse range of audit engagements, providing assurance and advisory services to our clients on their financial performance and compliance.

You would join us on an AAT 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, 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 Apprenticeship Scheme, you will receive the specialist support you need to reach your full potential in audit. With an ambitious and supportive team behind you, you will become a key player in delivering and developing our audit services. As your experience grows, so will your opportunities.

The skills and experience you will bring:

You will need to have 3 A-levels with at least 2 being grade B and above or equivalent.
You will need to have 5 GCSEs grade 6 and above or equivalent.
Ideally previous experience in a customer-facing role.
Ideally a full driving license with access to a car.

Why PKF Smith Cooper?

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 International. 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 plan 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’ and can help you achieve your potential through our comprehensive training, development and progression programme.

We aim to equip every apprentice 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 apprenticeship scheme!

Why Derby?

Home to our head office, Derby boasts a rich history of innovation, and many technological and professional services continue to thrive there. With easy travel connections across the country and charming countryside right on the doorstep, Derby has a lot on offer to do and see. The vibrant city centre is great for shopping, eating out and experiencing live music or theatre.

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 working environment that empowers you to perform at your best through our flexible working policy (subject to manager discretion) and dress for your diary scheme.
Time to do what matters to you – 25 days annual leave plus statutory bank holidays, the chance to purchase additional annual leave and your birthday off, on us.
Prize draws 4 times a year to reward those who embrace our company values – win a spa day, AirPods or even a trip to Paris!
A busy social calendar of team events, office activities and committees. From our monthly book club and Mental Health Committee to our legendary summer parties, there are lots of opportunities to get to know people away from your desk.
Life doesn’t stop at the end of the working day and neither do our benefits. We offer life assurance, healthcare cashback and discounts on gym memberships and popular retailers including Tesco, River Island and Booking.com.
Free personal finance and mortgage advice from our financial planning experts.
Travel the world with PKF One Week More, which allows you to extend your holiday with a week of working abroad, and secondment opportunities in PKF offices worldwide.

How to apply

Apply now if you believe you have what we are looking for! Even if you do not tick 100% of the boxes, we encourage you to apply.

If you have any questions, please contact a member of the HR team by emailing or calling 01332 332021.

Work in recruitment? We only accept CVs from our partnered agencies and any unsolicited CVs will be ignored. If you would like to partner with us in the future, get in touch with our HR team via the contact details above.

PKF Smith Cooper

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