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Pension Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2027) - Manchester

Grant Thornton
£29,000
Manchester
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TL;DR

Key Takeaways

  • Start a career in Pensions Audit with Grant Thornton, gaining a fully-funded professional qualification.
  • Earn a market-leading salary of £29,000 with a comprehensive benefits package.
  • Develop skills in AI and digital solutions while working with diverse clients and a supportive Partner sponsor.
  • Applications are for the Autumn 2027 intake.

About the Role

This programme offers a different approach to traditional apprenticeship schemes, aiming to turn trainees into leaders with bigger opportunities and faster growth.

What We Offer:

  • A market-leading salary of £29,000 and full benefits package.
  • A fully-funded professional qualification, including paid study leave, expert tuition, and all course fees covered.
  • A named Partner sponsor from day one.
  • International exposure to build a global perspective.
  • Access to the latest AI tools and digital solutions.
  • Meaningful client interaction to understand business operations and drive results.
  • Structured learning focused on developing future Partner capabilities.
  • In-person experiences with your cohort, building a network for life.
  • Opportunities to work with the Senior Leadership Team and shape new initiatives.
  • Business Development responsibilities, including winning work and supporting growth.

Technology and Your Role:

We are investing £500m in digital transformation, with leading AI tools handling manual tasks to allow focus on higher-value work. You will gain experience and training to progress rapidly. You will spend more time on detailed analysis, professional judgement, and providing insights. Your role will involve reviewing and challenging AI inputs and outputs to ensure exceptional client service.

Pensions Audit:

Pensions audit provides assurance to trustees, members, and regulators on how pension schemes are managed. You will audit industry-wide schemes, corporate pension schemes, and master trusts, helping to safeguard retirement savings.

As an auditor in the pensions team, you will:

  • Work with a variety of clients, including large corporate household names, specialist industry-wide schemes, and master trusts.
  • Test contributions and benefits, and gather evidence to assess the accuracy of reported retirement savings.
  • Apply professional judgement to assess scheme policies and funding positions.
  • Analyse financial statements and review internal controls.
  • Study for a relevant professional qualification (typically ACA, ICAS, CFAB, AAT, ACCA, CIMA or DTS).

Who We're Looking For:

This pathway requires drive and determination to keep pace with demanding work and an intensive professional qualification. We seek individuals with ambition to contribute to a high-performance culture and see a long-term future with the firm.

We are looking for people who demonstrate:

  • Commercial curiosity: Genuine interest in clients' businesses and spotting opportunities.
  • Digital explorer's mindset: Curiosity for digital tools and data, and a drive for smarter solutions.
  • Adaptability: Embracing change, asking questions, and learning quickly.
  • Strong problem-solving skills: Critical thinking, sound judgement, and attention to detail.
  • Collaborative communication: Effective listening, adapting approach, and building trust.
  • Proactive approach to career: Taking ownership of growth and seeking opportunities.

We have a flexible approach to academic entry requirements and will consider these alongside your strengths and motivations.