We strive to provide the best possible start for graduates
Whilst the idea of your academic journey coming to an end may be daunting, our support and guidance will ensure the transition to a professional career is simple and smooth.
You’ll be welcomed into an environment that promotes genuine inclusivity and celebrates individuality, built on our company values. We’re passionate individuals, and we hope you are too. As such, we invest time and energy in engaging with our colleagues and clients, empowering each other to perform at our best.
During your time at PKF Smith Cooper, we’ll provide the foundations to realise your professional ambitions and excel in your career.
Our Graduates’ Training Programme is an excellent opportunity for someone who desires a career in audit, tax, and accountancy to join a flourishing and supportive team. You’ll benefit from the impressive niche we’ve carved in the local market, whilst also receiving full study support when working towards an ACA/ACCA, CTA, or CIMA qualification.
Speak to our team at your local careers fair
Come and speak to our team about the exciting opportunities we have available for ambitious and dedicated people like you! We'll be at careers fairs across the Midlands throughout October and November and we'd love to have a chat.
View the full list of careers fairs we'll be attending in Autumn 2025 here.
Graduate roles at PKF Smith Cooper
Application process
Apply online
Follow the pathway on each of our vacancies to upload your CV, a covering letter and answer a couple of simple questions. These documents will then be reviewed by our HR team and the hiring manager, and successful candidates will be shortlisted.
First stage interview
You will be invited to a first interview with the hiring manager. This may be in one of our office or over Teams depending on your location. Unless specified beforehand, you are not required to prepare anything, but it may be handy to bring a copy of your covering letter and CV. This is a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
Psychometric assessments
You will be required to complete some online assessments, the number of assessments will depend on the role. The assessments will help us find out more about the kind of person you are, the way you think and your working style. You will be provided with login details and will be expected to complete these within a specified timescale.
Director/Partner interview
The final stage of the application process will be an interview with the Partner, which could last up to an hour. This is likely to be your last chance to show us why you’d be a great addition to the team, so seize the opportunity!
Frequently asked questions
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Search through the roles advertised above. To find out more information about a specific role, select it and you will be given the option to apply at the bottom of the page.
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We don't work towards a specific application deadline, but positions fill up quick and will be removed once we have hired, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
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Yes, we will review your application against all the roles you apply for.
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How you think and tackle a challenge is just as important to us as your academic achievements. We know you worked hard to get your qualifications and they’re a measure of your dedication.
You’ll need a minimum of Level 2/GCSE (or equivalent) in English Language and Maths, three A-levels or equivalent, and an honours degree (in any subject) by the time the programme starts.
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Yes, we are happy to consider applications from graduates who have taken a gap year.
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You’ll be asked for evidence of right to work in the UK, by providing either a UK/EU passport or a work permit. We are unfortunately not able to offer you support in obtaining a work permit.
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Our salaries are competitive and vary based on your skills and experience, we can discuss this with you further at the interview stage.
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Full study support will be provided to work towards a qualification relevant to your role e.g. ACA, ACCA, joint ACA/CTA or CTA qualification. The qualification we suggest for each role is contained within the role description.
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You should receive an email thanking you for your application shortly after you submit the documents. We endeavour to respond to each application within two weeks, however, at busier times in can sometimes take longer than this. We will contact you as soon as we can.
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We aim to contact you within 7 days of your interview.
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There is no fixed timeframe for the selection process, but we do understand the pressures of looking for work so we’ll do everything we can to make the process as fast as possible for you.
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Yes, typically our graduate roles start in September, however, this date may be flexible depending on your situation.
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Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we’re sadly unable to provide individual feedback at the application stage.
You will not be able to reply for this same intake year, however we welcome your application in future.
Workplace & culture
We're proud to have created an environment where over 90% of our team members consistently say they feel proud to work here.
Through social activities, sports competitions, and networking events, we support our people to live healthy, fulfilled, and balanced lives, and our commitment to time away from our desks keeps us refreshed and ready for the journey ahead.
About PKF Smith Cooper
PKF Smith Cooper is the home of PKF in the Midlands. Our clients are at the heart of everything we do, and it’s our job to help them thrive by creating successful, longstanding relationships.
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