Finance graduate

We have a successful history of recruiting graduates. Our finance graduate scheme is a three-year programme in which time you will work alongside people who have recently, and not so recently, gone through a very similar process to yourself. We provide opportunities for you to gain on-the-job work experience and training alongside studying towards formal finance qualifications.

The qualifications you may study, depending on your experience and preference, may include the Association of Chartered Certified Accountant (ACCA), Chartered Institute of Management Accountant (CIMA), Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) and the following investment management qualifications - Investment Management Certificate (IMC) Level 1 and 2, Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments (CISI) and the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Levels 1, and 2.

Our investment management team manages £20 billion of assets, much of it managed via an experienced in-house investment team of approximately 30 staff; that is part of the £60+ billion Northern LGPS Asset Pool.

You need to be comfortable working with a range of people, backgrounds and business areas.

Over the 3 years you will work closely with the team to gain experience across the finance role, acquiring valuable knowledge and experience of working as a finance professional. You will have access to a range of IT software packages and other accounting software, plus the full suite of MS Office products.

By joining the West Yorkshire Pension Fund, you will have the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of our members while advancing your career in finance. We offer competitive and comprehensive benefits, and a commitment to work-life balance. If you are passionate about financial stewardship and want to be part of an organisation that makes a difference, we invite you to apply and become a key player in our mission

About you

You will need to be in your final year studying towards your degree or have already achieved at least a 2:2 in Finance or a similar subject, such as Economics or Business Studies / Management. You will also have an interest in or experience of business finance.

Hybrid working

We understand the importance of work / life balance and as such we offer both super flexi and hybrid working.
The investment team are expected to work 37 hours a week and work from the office 3 days a week.

Why work for us?

We’re offering graduates the chance to be part of something bigger - shaping a brighter future for our pension members, colleagues, and society. We’re not just focused on the now, but on creating lasting change, and as a graduate, you’ll have the opportunity to make a real impact from day one. We're a passionate, forward-thinking team, setting new standards for ourselves and the companies who rely on us, and we want you to be a part of that journey.

Our flexible, hybrid workspaces are designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and mindful working, helping you grow alongside us. We believe in empowering our people to thrive, and we’re committed to creating an environment where you feel supported, inspired, and valued. As a continuously learning organisation, we’ll provide you with the tools, training, and encouragement to succeed, so together, we can find better ways of working. This is more than just a graduate program - it’s a launchpad for your future.

Our rewards

You will also enjoy the kind of great benefits you would expect from a large employer. These include hybrid working, generous annual leave, membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme, Super Flexi, Vivup – employee benefits and shopping discount scheme, Metro Pool Cards, Travel Card Scheme, Cycle to Work Scheme, Car Parking Discounted rates, Home and electronics staff offer scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, Electric Vehicles, Car Loan Scheme, Gym Discount among others.

What happens next?

Our Graduate Programme consists of three stages:

Stage 1 - The selection process will be based on completing an application form. You will be expected to demonstrate your ability to meet the special knowledge, experience and qualifications required for the role by providing evidence in the application form for the purpose of shortlisting. Applicants with disabilities are only required to meet the essential special knowledge requirements shown by a cross in the end column of this section.

Stage 2 – consists of an on-line general ability assessment and occupational personality questionnaire.

Stage 3 - Those shortlisted will be invited to a panel interview which may include a task or presentation. Details including dates and times will be provided to candidates who successfully progress through Stage 2.

How to apply

Our graduate opportunities are now live on our recruitment system here.

Completed applications must be submitted by 12 pm on 28 February 2025. Interviews are planned for the week commencing 24 March 2025.