Launch Your Finance Career with Sefton Council – Join Our CIPFA Graduate Trainee Programme

Sefton is a diverse and vibrant borough offering a fantastic work-life balance. From world-renowned nature reserves and stunning coastlines to thriving town centres and excellent transport links to Manchester, Liverpool and beyond — it’s a place where you can build a career and enjoy life.

We’re proud to be part of the Liverpool City Region and are actively shaping its future. Sefton Council is on an exciting journey towards our 2030 vision, and our Finance Service plays a key role in making that happen.

Why Join Us?

• Established Programme: Our CIPFA Graduate Trainee Programme has been running for 6 years, helping graduates become future finance leaders.
• Real Impact: Trainees contribute to meaningful work that supports services across the Council.
• Career Progression: Many of our trainees have gone on to secure promotions and receive national recognition — including awards from CIPFA and features during National Apprenticeship Week.
• Supportive Environment: You’ll be part of a friendly, professional team that supports your development every step of the way.

What You’ll Do

As a CIPFA trainee, you’ll rotate across key areas of the Finance Service over a 3–4 year period, gaining hands-on experience in: budget support to services; closure of accounts; finance systems; and internal audit.

You’ll provide financial advice to budget holders and senior managers, helping to shape decisions that affect the borough.

Who We’re Looking For

We’re looking for an enthusiastic, motivated graduate with:

• A relevant degree or equivalent qualification
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• A desire to learn and grow in a public sector finance career

Key Dates

• Interviews: Online, week commencing 20th October. Candidates who are shortlisted will be sent full details in advance.
• Start Date: Before 17th December
• CIPFA Enrolment: Early November (with full support from Sefton Council)

Ready to take the next step?
For more information, contact Andy Bridson on 07813 543320.

Equal Opportunities

Sefton Council strives to ensure that our workforce is inclusive and representative of our communities. A diverse workforce is important to us, our staff bring with them a wide range of experiences, views, ideas, and innovations, and we are committed to providing an environment that recognises, respects, and values everybody’s identity, where individual differences are strengths and where everyone can thrive and maximise their potential. We are always open to learning and growing as an organisation, and we welcome new ideas and initiatives that promote equality, diversity and inclusion.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer; all candidates will receive equal treatment. Our decision to appoint will be based upon whether an individual’s skills, experience, qualifications, and abilities make them the most suitable candidate for the role.

GUARANTEED INTERVIEW SCHEME

Please note that all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for these jobs (as given in the Person Specification) and who want to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme will be invited to interview.

If you are currently in care or have previously been in care, we provide a guaranteed interview scheme for care experienced people if you meet the essential requirements for the role.