Finance Graduate

United Utilities; England; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water services company in the North West is seeking Finance Graduates for a comprehensive 3-year development program. You will gain hands-on experience across various finance functions while working towards your CIMA qualification. The role promises competitive salary, benefits, and clear pathways for career progression, all within a supportive environment that values diversity and work-life balance.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

26 days of annual leave

Flexible working policies

Private healthcare

Discounted gym membership

Qualifications

• Minimum 2:1 degree classification in any discipline.
• Effective leadership skills.
• Excellent team player.

Responsibilities

• Participate in a 3-year graduate finance scheme.
• Gain hands-on experience in various finance functions.
• Work towards Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) qualification.

Skills

Leadership

Teamwork

Communication

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Education

2:1 degree classification

Job description

Overview

United Utilities is responsible for water and wastewater services in the North West of England. From we will undertake the largest investment in water and wastewater services in the North West in 100 years - that's more than £13 billion worth of investment. Now, more than ever, we need inspiring future talent to help make the North West stronger, greener, and healthier.

Whatever area of our business your interests lie in, our 3-year graduate programme will give you first-class training and support, together with an in-depth understanding of your chosen business area - so that you can develop the skills you need to progress your career as you make a real contribution to the communities we serve. You might enter our scheme as a graduate, but one thing's for sure, before long you'll be heading into your next role as a technical, operational or people leader.

Working in the North West means there's a lot of ground to cover. You could have the opportunity to work in the heart of the Lake District, or you could sample a taste of city life. As well as our main office in Warrington we also recruit for a variety of roles based across the North West; we have 575 wastewater treatment works and 96 water treatment works in areas from Crewe in Cheshire to Carlisle in Cumbria.

Whichever scheme you join, you'll be at the heart of bringing innovation and positive change to the water industry. Ready to flow into your future with us?

The Role

Join our esteemed finance team of over 120 professionals, renowned for delivering exceptional financial results. Our tailored development program offers comprehensive exposure to various finance functions, including Financial Control, Internal Audit, Taxation, Investor Relations and Treasury.

As a key member of a relatively small team, you'll gain valuable insights and hands-on experience, positioning you for success in a dynamic and challenging environment. Our company and industry are going through a significant period of change and so this is an excellent opportunity to grow your career alongside industry leaders and make a significant impact on our financial operations. Start living your future today!

What will I be doing?

• The graduate scheme is three years in length, during which you are fully supported, both professionally and financially, in obtaining your Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) qualification whilst gaining hands-on financial experience. You will be given study leave to support you to become fully qualified.
• You'll receive a tailored development program that is specifically aligned to the CIMA professional experience requirements with 3-12-month placements in a range of critical teams across finance all based at our head office, Lingley Mere, in Warrington.
• It's fair to say no two days will be the same, as you learn how we manage financial risk, implement robust financial controls, maintain good relationships with our investors and manage taxation.

What do I need to be successful?

We require our Finance graduates to have a minimum 2:1 degree classification in any discipline.

Also, you will need to be:

• An effective leader
• An excellent team player
• An excellent communicator at all levels
• Able to work under pressure in a wide range of situations
• Proficient with Microsoft Office

Additional Information

Our recruitment process requires you to complete:

• An Online application form
• Online tests
• A MS Teams Interview and presentation
• An in-person assessment centre

Please note that you must be available to attend an in-person recruitment stage during the period 17th November - 19th December

Application deadline: 13th October 2025 - please apply early as deadlines are subject to change

Based on current immigration guidelines this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship

Why choose United Utilities for your graduate journey?

Competitive Salary and Benefits: We offer a competitive starting salary of £31,250 which is reviewed each year and will increase annually throughout your graduate scheme, 26 days of annual leave (increasing to 30 days after four years), plus bank holidays. Up to £500 reimbursed towards driving lessons and test which can be backdated . Our benefits package includes private healthcare, discounted gym membership, flexible holidays, and an award-winning pension scheme.

subject to time restriction and providing valid receipt

Career Progression Opportunities: Our graduate scheme offers clear pathways for advancement, structured programmes, and mentorship to help you develop into an outstanding leader. You'll receive a tailored development programme, with opportunities for placements in other areas of the business.

Personal and Professional Development: You'll have the chance to work within a highly motivated team, gaining a wealth of experience and creating a fantastic professional network. From specialist training to mentoring and coaching to internal support networks for LGBTQ+, Gender Equality and Neurodiversity, we'll support you every step of the way. There is also potential for sponsorship for a master's or other postgraduate qualifications.

Work-Life Balance: We understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Our flexible working policies and supportive work environment ensure you can achieve this balance while pursuing your career goals.

Our Reputation and Culture: United Utilities is proud to be one of the UK's top inclusive employers. We are a responsible business that cares about delivering great customer service, protecting the environment, and investing in the region to support future growth.