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Pension Audit School Leaver Programme (Autumn 2027) - Manchester

Grant Thornton
Location
Manchester
Salary
£29,000 per year
Degree awarded
Level 6
Start date
1 January 2027
Vacancy reference
TRN27_165
Disability Confident
✓ Yes

About the role

Pensions audit is about giving trustees, members, and regulators confidence in how pension schemes are run. As part of the team, you'll audit industry-wide schemes, corporate pension schemes, and master trusts - work that helps safeguard the retirement savings of millions, in one of the most heavily regulated environments there is. You'll get exposure to a wide range of clients, including household names, building the insight to understand how these organisations manage risk, governance, and members' money. As an auditor in our pensions team, you will: Work with a variety of clients, from large corporate household names to specialist industry-wide schemes and master trusts, gaining exposure to different governance structures and regulatory challenges. Get hands-on from day one, testing contributions and benefits, and gathering evidence to assess how accurately schemes are reporting members' retirement savings. Apply professional judgement to assess the policies and funding positions schemes adopt. Analyse financial statements and review internal controls, learning how trustees and administrators manage assets, liabilities, and risk.

Requirements

Commercial curiosity - genuine interest in clients' businesses and an eye for spotting opportunities to add value, from the start. A digital explorer's mindset - curiosity for digital tools and data, and a drive to find smarter solutions early on. Adaptability - embracing change, asking good questions, and picking things up quickly when thrown in at the deep end. Strong problem-solving skills - critical thinking, sound judgement, and attention to detail from your first live piece of work. Collaborative communication - listening well, adapting your approach, and building trust with clients and colleagues alike. A proactive approach to your career - taking ownership of your growth and seeking out opportunities rather than waiting for them to come to you.

Skills

Financial analysisAuditProfessional judgementProblem-solvingCommunicationDigital toolsData analysisClient relationship management

Training & development

Study for a relevant professional qualification (typically ACA, ICAS, CFAB, AAT, ACCA, CIMA or DTS) which will complement your technical knowledge, and prepare you for future career success. Fully-funded professional qualification, including paid study leave, expert tuition, and all course fees covered.
Additional training
Structured learning built around the capabilities of a future Partner - taking you beyond the technical. In-person experiences with your cohort of future leaders. Access to the latest leading AI tools and digital solutions from day one, building skills that will shape the future of your career. International exposure, helping you build a global perspective early in your career. Access to additional opportunities as you reach your potential - from working with our Senior Leadership Team to shaping new initiatives. Business Development responsibilities before you even qualify.
Future prospects
A named Partner sponsor from day one to support you grow in your career. Meaningful client interaction outside of the day-to-day - understanding how businesses operate and driving results which matter. Hands-on opportunities to win work and support growth ambitions.

Company benefits

Market-leading salary of £29,000 and full benefits package. Fully-funded professional qualification, including paid study leave, expert tuition, and all course fees covered. Named Partner sponsor from day one. International exposure. Access to leading AI tools and digital solutions from day one. Meaningful client interaction. In-person experiences with cohort.

About Grant Thornton

Grant Thornton is a market-leading professional services firm investing £500m in digital transformation. The firm is investing in future leaders with digital-first innovation.
Website
www.grantthornton.co.uk
If this one works out

This role is in Manchester. If you'd be moving for it, a room in a shared house there typically runs £550–£800 a month.

What rent could you afford on £29,000?Moving to ManchesterRenting at 18