Corporate Tax - Derby Graduate 2026

PKF Smith Cooper; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK accounting firm is seeking graduates for its Tax Department's graduate scheme. This role offers comprehensive training towards ACA/CTA qualification, providing hands-on experience in tax laws and advice. The successful candidates will engage in client projects, contribute to tax strategies, and develop analytical skills in a supportive environment. Previous graduates have achieved remarkable success through this program, with ongoing development opportunities and a strong focus on nurturing talent.

Benefits

Flexible working policy

25 days annual leave

Prize draws

Social calendar events

Healthcare cashback

Financial advice

Opportunities for overseas work

Qualifications

• Strong academic record at A Level and GCSE is required.
• A genuine interest in pursuing a career in Tax is essential.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills are important.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with tax team on client projects.
• Prepare and review tax returns for accuracy.
• Identify tax-saving opportunities through analysis.

Skills

Analytical abilities

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Education

Any degree at 2:1 or above

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

As a graduate member of our Tax department, you will join us on an ACA/CTA training pathway. You will develop a specialist knowledge of tax laws and legislation to provide our clients with expert advice and guidance. Supporting our clients will involve finding solutions to tax-related issues that will minimise their tax bills and make profitable decisions for themselves or their businesses. The training we provide will make sure you stay at the forefront of the tax profession. Learning opportunities within this role are ongoing, as you develop your knowledge of the ever‑changing tax landscape to find solutions that help our clients succeed. You will have the chance to gain a deep understanding of a variety of businesses across different sectors – from nationals to start‑ups. A successful career in tax requires a unique blend of technical expertise, analytical thinking and people skills. Our Tax Graduate Scheme will develop your abilities in these key areas, as you build your theoretical knowledge through studying and develop practical skills through on‑the‑job training. You will work in a collaborative environment, engage with diverse clients and contribute to the development of ethical and sustainable financial practices in a rapidly changing economic landscape. You’ll be equipped with valuable technical skills, broad commercial understanding, and in‑depth knowledge of different industry sectors to help you achieve a Tax Advisor qualification.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with tax team members on a range of client projects, assisting in tax research, planning, and compliance activities
• Participate in the preparation and review of tax returns for corporations, ensuring accuracy and adherence to regulations
• Analyse financial statements and records to identify potential tax‑saving opportunities and offer tailored recommendations
• Support the creation of comprehensive tax strategies that align with clients’ business objectives and regulatory frameworks
• Engage in client meetings to gather necessary information, explain tax concepts, and address inquiries professionally
• Stay updated on changes in tax laws and regulations, and apply this knowledge to ensure clients’ compliance and optimise their tax positions
• Contribute to the development of client presentations, reports, and proposals related to tax planning and consulting service

Training and Development

On our Tax Graduate Scheme, you will benefit from exposure to a wide range of work with businesses of all sizes, many of them local to our offices. Our partners take a direct interest in the development and progression of our graduates. We aim to equip every graduate with the skills they need to become a future leader – our Managing Partner started out at PKF Smith Cooper as a graduate himself, so who knows what you could achieve through our graduate scheme! Whether you have recently graduated or are about to graduate and exploring options for the future, or you are looking to change your career and embark on new challenges, our Tax Graduate Scheme is your first step into a fulfilling career with significant earning potential. No previous accounting experience or maths‑related degree is required! People who work in tax help individuals and businesses navigate the UK’s complex taxation system. By training to become a tax professional, you can have a real impact on our clients’ financial success, from minimising tax bills to advising strategically on financial decisions. As an ICAEW, ATT and CTA Approved Training Employer, we are recognised for our high‑quality training and development.

Skills & Qualifications

Your skills and qualities:

• Any degree at 2:1 or above, with a strong academic record at A Level and GCSE.
• A genuine interest in pursuing a career in Tax.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical‑thinking abilities.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high‑quality work.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and adapt to changing priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office is beneficial.
• Although a driving licence and car isn’t a requirement, it will be highly beneficial as you will need to travel to our different client sites.
• No prior experience required.

Benefits

Our Tax Graduate Scheme will equip you with the skills you need to reach your potential and become an expert in tax. Previous graduates have gone on to achieve incredible success at PKF Smith Cooper – our Managing Partner started out at the company as a graduate! With our support and development opportunities, there are no limits to what you can achieve if you prove yourself capable.

Here are some of the perks you can expect as part of Team PKF Smith Cooper:

• A working environment that empowers you to perform at your best through our flexible working policy (subject to manager discretion) and dress for your diary scheme.
• Time to do what matters to you – 25 days annual leave plus statutory bank holidays, the chance to purchase additional annual leave and your birthday off, on us.
• Prize draws 4 times a year to reward those who embrace our company values – win a spa day, AirPods or even a trip to Paris!
• A busy social calendar of team events, office activities and committees. From our monthly book club and Mental Health Committee to our legendary summer parties, there are lots of opportunities to get to know people away from your desk.
• Life assurance, healthcare cashback and discounts on gym memberships and popular retailers including Tesco, River Island and Expedia.
• Free personal finance and mortgage advice from our financial planning experts.
• Travel the world with PKF One Week More, which allows you to extend your holiday with a week of working abroad, and secondment opportunities in PKF offices worldwide.

PKF Smith Cooper is the 12th largest accounting firm by UK fee income (Accountancy Age Top 50+50) and a member of global network PKF Global. Through PKF, we operate in unison with member firms in 150 countries to share ideas, expertise and specialist resources for the benefit of our team and clients. Our team of award‑winning accountants and business advisors plans to double the size of our company within the next 5 years. As a fast‑growing firm and accredited ICAEW and ACCA Approved Training Employer, we are passionate about developing ‘homegrown talent’. We can help you achieve your potential through our comprehensive training, development, and progression programme. We aim to equip every graduate with the skills to become a future leader – our very own managing partner started at PKF Smith Cooper as a graduate, so who knows what you could achieve through our graduate scheme! Why Derby? At our headquarters located in Pride Park, you’ll find our main office with three floors of bright, open plan work spaces, breakout areas, and modern meeting rooms. Fully equipped kitchens and dining spaces are perfect for spending time away from our desks, and you can even enjoy our private, on‑site gym. What’s in it for you? Our benefits package has been shaped by our values and our people. In addition to the benefits listed above, you’ll have access to:

• Life assurance, healthcare cashback and discounts on gym memberships and popular retailers including Tesco, River Island and Expedia.
• Free personal finance and mortgage advice from our financial planning experts.
• Travel the world with PKF One Week More, which allows you to extend your holiday with a week of working abroad, and secondment opportunities in PKF offices worldwide.