Public Sector Audit 12 Month Placement Programme (Summer 2026) - Manchester Fixed Term (Fixed T[...]

Grant Thornton UK LLP; Manchester; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading audit and advisory firm in the UK is looking for individuals for its Public Sector Audit 12 Month Placement Programme in Manchester starting Summer 2026. This programme offers hands-on experience with significant public bodies, allowing participants to develop skills in audit and financial analysis. Ideal candidates are curious, innovative problem-solvers who thrive in collaborative environments. A competitive salary and various benefits are included.

Benefits

Technology to support learning

Dedicated support from mentors

Flexible holiday options

Private medical insurance

Exclusive shopping discounts

Qualifications

• Actively curious and purposefully driven.
• Innovative thinkers who can spot patterns from data.

Responsibilities

• Work with high-profile public body clients.
• Conduct real audits at client sites.
• Analyze financial statements and internal controls.
• Use data technology to identify trends.
• Continuously develop professional judgement.

Skills

Curiosity

Problem-solving

Communication

Collaboration

Self-leadership

Job description

Public Sector Audit 12 Month Placement Programme (Summer 2026) - Manchester

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 do not just observe - you make a difference.

Public Sector Audit is where purpose meets impact. We are made up of 400 specialists working with government departments, public bodies, and national services. You'll get under the surface of how public money is spent, ask the tough questions, and help clients navigate financial challenges with confidence. In a world of rapid change and rising expectations, your work will help protect the public purse and support services that millions rely on.

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 springboard into the world of business - offering hands‑on experience, real responsibility, and a chance to see the impact of your work as you build skills for your final year and future career.

What you'll do

• Work with a variety of clients, our portfolio includes the biggest and most significant of local public bodies such as Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and the Metropolitan Police.
• Get hands‑on with real audits, visiting client sites 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 our clients manage money, risk, and operations.
• Use data and technology to spot trends, identify anomalies, and support your findings - including automated interrogation of financial information systems.
• 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

• 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:
  • Extra holiday options (including flexible bank holidays and the option to purchase additional holidays)
  • Life assurance
  • Private medical insurance.

Register your interest

Join our talent community to be the first to know when applications open for our next intake, and to receive advice and guidance straight to your inbox.

Visit the employability hub to find out everything you need to know about our application process and how to excel.

The Prince's Responsible Business Network