Job Details Finance Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship 2026 R30442

MBDA S.A.S.; Stevenage; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence organisation is offering an apprenticeship in Finance, combining study with practical experience across various Finance functions. The program includes qualifications and placements in multiple areas such as Accounting, Treasury, and Cost Control. This opportunity suits those looking to start their career in Finance while earning.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Paid travel expenses

Annual pay reviews

Study leave during exam periods

Dynamic Working policies

Employee Assistance Programme

Private medical insurance options

Pension and share incentive opportunities

Learning and development support

Qualifications

• Specific qualification and subject criteria apply.
• Expected to meet requirements by start date.
• Pass basic pre-assessment with BPP for AAT Level 3.

Responsibilities

• Complete placements within at least two Finance functions.
• Initially study for a Level 3 Assistant Accountant qualification.
• Gain practical experience in financial functions.

Skills

5 GCSEs at grades 9–4

English Language

Mathematics

Job description

Overview

This role describes an Apprenticeship in Finance with MBDA, combining study with paid on‑the‑job experience across multiple Finance functions. Placements will be within at least two Finance functions, providing a well‑rounded view of the service the function provides to the wider business.

Opportunity

Our vision in Finance is to operate as one coordinated team, delivering standard methodology, financial controls and processes. We look to challenge all areas of the business, improve shareholder value, protect assets of MBDA and align with national and shareholder requirements. You will gain insight into the various roles within Finance and develop the skills and behaviours a business partner should bring to the business in the future.

Programme structure

As part of the Apprenticeship, you will:

• Initially study for a Level 3 Assistant Accountant qualification (18 months).
• Then complete a Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting with AAT (Professional Accounting Technician Level 4 Apprenticeship) over a further 18 months.
• The final 12 months of the scheme are full‑time work to gain practical experience.
• Complete placements within at least two Finance functions while studying.
• Access potential further professional qualifications within Finance based on performance.

Your studies will be delivered by BPP, offering either face‑to‑face learning or virtual lessons (live or recorded), depending on location.

Find more details about the courses here:

• https://www.bpp.com/courses/accountancy-and-tax/apprenticeships/assistant-accountant
• https://www.bpp.com/courses/accountancy-and-tax/apprenticeships/professional-accounting-taxation-technician

Potential placements

• Accounting and Planning – preparation of company level financial plans and reports for senior management and other stakeholders.
• Programmes Finance – working as a business partner within multi‑functional teams on contract delivery and execution.
• Cost Control – control of functional budgets, including Information Management and Facilities, and recovery of the cost base through hourly rates.
• Treasury – cash management and foreign currency hedging.
• Bids and Contract Evaluation – support the creation of robust, profitable financial proposals to customers for products and services.

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave (plus holiday purchase) and up to 15 days flexi leave; 5 additional days after 5, 10 and 15 years of service.
• Paid travel expenses to and from your place of study.
• Annual pay reviews.
• Study leave during exam periods.
• Dynamic Working policies offering flexibility around hours and location, with optional paid overtime and time in lieu where applicable.
• Money‑saving and wellbeing benefits including an Employee Assistance Programme, private medical insurance options, dental and healthcare plans, a Healthcare Cash Plan, and more.
• Mortgage, pension, and share incentive opportunities, plus a range of voluntary benefits and discounts.
• Learning and development support, with access to online platforms and a formal course catalogue; up to £150 per year for eligible self‑funded study.

Eligibility and notes

This role has specific qualification and subject criteria. Please check eligibility before applying; if you are currently studying and expect to meet requirements by the start date you are welcome to apply. GCSEs: a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 9–4, including English Language and Mathematics.

Note: For this apprenticeship, all students are required to complete and pass a basic 4‑day pre‑assessment with BPP to prepare for the AAT Level 3. A free online four‑day Bookkeeping for Level 3 course will be held in August, with tutor support and an end‑of‑week assessment.

Company

MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We support the Armed Forces and partner with governments to defend freedom. We recognise diversity and encourage applicants to discuss any required adjustments during the recruitment process.

We offer enhanced family leave provisions, including up to 26 weeks of maternity, adoption, and shared parental leave, plus enhanced paternity and neonatal leave where applicable. We also provide support for fertility testing and treatments.

Other benefits and facilities include on‑site gym access, company discounts and vouchers, a salary sacrifice car scheme, and various lifestyle and learning allowances.