Private Capital Audit 12 Month Placement Programme (Summer 2026) - Cambridge

Alternatively, Grant Thornton

At Grant Thornton we do things differently - looking to the future, driving ambitious growth and pioneering positive change in our industry. Providing audit, tax and advisory services, we empower clients through strategic insight, curiosity, and genuine partnership. And we empower our people with real opportunity, an inclusive culture and work life balance. A true alternative.

With over 5,000 people in the UK, and a presence in 150 global markets, we're on an ambitious journey, from great to exceptional, and we need the best people to help us achieve our potential. And with that comes the opportunity to help redefine what our industry looks like, and what you want from your career.

Job Description:

Real responsibility. Real impact. Right from the start.

Auditors are investigators, problem-solvers, and trusted advisers. They dive deep into how businesses operate, ensuring the numbers tell the real story, and helping organisations stay on track. Think of it as a backstage pass to the business world, where you don't just observe - you make a difference.

At Grant Thornton, we're looking for actively curious, purposefully driven, and candid but kind individuals who want to shape the future of business - not follow it.

Our 12-month placement programme is your launchpad to a meaningful career, offering the chance to make a real impact on UK businesses. You will also have an opportunity to secure a graduate role before returning to university, and benefit from accelerated progression towards a professional qualification when you come back to us.

What you'll do
You'll be part of a team that helps businesses stay financially healthy, transparent, and accountable. You'll learn by doing, with plenty of support along the way.
• Work with a variety of clients, from household names to innovative start-ups, gaining exposure to different industries and challenges.
• Get hands-on with real audits, visiting client sites, attending stock counts, and carrying out testing that helps verify financial accuracy and uncover risks.
• Understand how businesses work by analysing financial statements, reviewing internal controls, and learning how companies manage money, risk, and operations.
• Use data and technology to spot trends, identify anomalies, and support your findings.
• Keep learning and growing by staying up to date with regulations, developing your professional judgement, and building relationships with mentors and experts across the firm.

Who we're looking for
We've got a flexible approach to academic entry requirements, and we'll consider these alongside your strengths and motivations. We're looking for people who want to contribute, spark fresh ideas, and go beyond expectations.
• Curious minds who explore ideas and ask thoughtful questions.
• Innovative problem solvers who think creatively, spot patterns, and turn data into meaningful insights.
• Collaborative partners who work respectfully and build trust with others.
• Effective communicators who listen, adapt, and express ideas clearly.
• Self-leaders who manage and flex their time, mindset, and energy effectively.
• Career-minded contributors who take initiative and are motivated to grow.

What you'll get
Kickstart your career with a structured placement programme designed to give you real-world experience from day one.
• Technology to support your learning and client work.
• Dedicated support network, from experienced managers and mentors who'll guide you every step of the way.
• Our approach to how we work helps you balance life, learning, and work.
• Exclusive discounts on shopping, gyms, and wellbeing services.
• Opportunities to give back through mentoring, volunteering, or fundraising initiatives.
• Competitive salary and benefits package, including:
o Extra holiday options (including flexible bank holidays and the option to purchase additional holidays)
o Life assurance
o Private medical insurance.

Join the firm that's shaping the accountants of the future.

We're growing fast, and we want you to grow with us. With digital-first innovation and an inclusive culture that powers progress, this is your chance to shape what's next.

This isn't just a placement programme.
It's the start of something bigger.