Cowgills, part of the Sumer Group
Early Careers Trainee
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Department: Early Careers
Location: Manchester
Description
Cowgills is proud to be part of the Sumer Group – one of the UK’s fastest-growing accountancy practices. Together, we’re creating brighter futures for our people, our clients, and our communities.
We’re more about people than numbers. Whether we’re supporting entrepreneurs or established businesses, we build strong relationships and deliver real impact. And we want you to be part of that journey.
We’re now inviting applications for our Early Careers Trainee Programme, designed for those ready to take their first step into a rewarding career in accountancy. Whether your passion lies in Audit, Accounts, Tax, or Business Recovery, you’ll gain the skills, qualifications and experience to become a fully qualified professional, supported every step of the way.
Application closing date is Thursday 4th December 2025.
About Us
You’ll join a supportive, professional team where enthusiasm, curiosity, and commitment matter just as much as experience. From your very first day, you’ll work with a variety of clients and as your confidence grows, so will your responsibilities.
You’ll have the chance to work directly with clients, contribute to meaningful projects, and gain a genuine understanding of how successful businesses operate.
We’ll provide the technical training and personal development you need to progress, helping you build a strong foundation for a long and rewarding career in accountancy.
The Programme
You’ll join a training contract and programme, combining practical client experience with professional study towards your qualification (AAT, ACA, or ATT/CTA).
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Alongside your qualification, you’ll become part of the Sumer Academy – our dedicated early careers development programme. The Academy runs alongside your studies, offering a blend of online, virtual and in-person learning focused on building both your technical skills and the soft skills that will help you thrive in your future career.
You’ll also train as part of a group-wide cohort, connecting with other trainees from across the Sumer Group to share experiences and learn together.
To apply, you’ll need a strong academic background, including at least a Grade C/4 in English and Maths at GCSE level (or equivalent).
You’ll also be:
- An effective communicator – confident in listening and expressing ideas clearly with clients and colleagues.
- Collaborative – a team player who enjoys sharing ideas and working together to achieve great results.
- Time efficient – able to balance work and study with good organisation and prioritisation.
- A problem solver – curious, adaptable and ready to take on challenges.
- Results focused – proud to deliver a high standard of work and service.
- Keen to learn – enthusiastic about developing your skills and career.
The Process
Our application process is designed to help you show your best self:
- CV Review
- Online testing via our partner CandiTech (behavioural, numerical and comprehension)
- Assessment Centre & Individual Interview
- Offer
Application Window: Thursday 20th November to Thursday 4th December 2025.
Application Screening & Online Testing Invitations: Week commencing 8th December 2025.
Online Testing Deadline: One week from the date of your invitation
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In-Person Assessment Centre & Individual Interviews: 7th or 8th January 2026
Key Details
- Locations: Bolton, Manchester, Liverpool, Wigan
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday
- Start Date: August 2026
What’s on offer
- Full study support, including paid study leave and course fees
- Buddy and mentoring systems to help you settle in and progress
- Group-wide cohort training through the Sumer Academy
- Opportunities to grow your career beyond qualification
- Exposure to a diverse range of clients and projects
Belong @ Sumer
At Sumer, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment, not just as buzzwords, but as the heartbeat of our team. Our recruitment practices reflect this commitment, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds. We prioritise creating an environment where every candidate feels respected and supported throughout the hiring process.
Everyone is unique and we understand that each individual may have distinct needs to showcase their best selves during interviews. Our commitment is to offer personalised support for all candidates. Let our team know how we can bring out your fullest potential.
Our Values
We have a strong set of values that define who we are and everything we do:
- WE SHINE TOGETHER – We celebrate everyone’s individuality and work as one team.
- WE DO THE RIGHT THING – We act with kindness, fairness and integrity in everything we do.
- WE MAKE IT COUNT – We’re quietly brave as we make a difference, every day, for our clients and communities.
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