Early Careers at Sumer
Start locally, grow nationally.
Whether you are a school leaver, graduate or career changing,
we’ll help you build a bright future as a business champion.
We're Sumer
One of the UK’s fastest-growing accountancy practices. Together, we’re creating brighter futures for our people, our clients, and our communities.
Our Early Careers Trainee Programme is designed for those ready to take their first step into a rewarding career in accountancy. Whether your passion lies in Audit, Accounts or Tax, you’ll gain the skills, qualifications and experience to become a fully qualified professional, supported every step of the way.
A career in accountancy is so much more than numbers. At Sumer, it’s about solving real problems for real people, shaping better decisions, and helping local businesses thrive. You won’t be just “starting out”; you’ll be contributing from day one, learning from brilliant colleagues, and growing in a supportive team that values curiosity, ambition and fresh ideas. Whether you’re drawn to clients or data; or something in between, accountancy gives you skills that open doors for life and a chance to make a genuine impact in the communities we serve.
Life at Sumer
Life at Sumer means joining a supportive, values-driven team where you can do your best work. You’ll feel grounded in your local hub while benefiting from the scale, expertise, and opportunities of a national group. We champion individuality, collaboration, and doing the right thing, creating an environment where you’re encouraged to grow, make an impact, and feel genuinely valued.
Here, we shine together, make it count, and support you to build a career that fits your ambitions.
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
Powered by purpose,
united by values
At Sumer we’ve also understood that a purpose driven business performs better. Our purpose is to be the UK’s champion for small and medium sized businesses. Our group-wide values underpin our purpose and guide who we are and everything we do. Here are our values:
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
Our Business Champions
Entry criteria
We look for people who have a strong A-Level or equivalent academic history, including a minimum of a Grade C/5 in English and B/6 in Maths at GCSE level (or equivalent).
This criteria has been set to select candidates who’ll be able to undertake professional qualifications alongside developing in their role.
We’re seeking individuals who are:
Effective communicators
You’ll work with lots of different people, from teammates to clients, so being able to listen and get your message across is important.
Collaborative
We love sharing ideas and working together to make things better.
Time efficient
You’ll juggle work and study, so being organised and knowing how to prioritise is key.
Problem-solvers
Clients rely on us to help them figure things out, so being curious and adaptable will take you far.
Results focused
We’re proud of the work we do, and we want you to share that same passion for delivering an exceptional service.
Keen to learn
Show us your enthusiasm to grow, take on challenges, and build your career with us.
FAQs
We look for people who have a strong A-Level or equivalent academic history, including a minimum of a Grade C/5 in English and B/6 in Maths at GCSE level (or equivalent).
This criteria has been set to select candidates who’ll be able to undertake professional qualifications alongside developing in their role.
Our application process has three stages:
- Stage 1: Complete the online application form with your basic information, upload your CV, and provide answers to our initial questions.
- Stage 2: We’ll review your application and if shortlisted, you’ll be invited to complete an online assessment via our online platform, Canditech. You can expect some video questions, numeracy and comprehension tests.
- Stage 3: Successful candidates will be invited to attend an in-person assessment centre for some collaborative task-based exercises and interviews.
No, absolutely not! We encourage school leavers, graduates and those looking for a change of career. As long as you want to start your journey in our industry, and meet the entry criteria we want to hear from you!
Everyone is unique and we understand that each individual may have distinct needs to showcase their best selves . Our commitment is to offer personalised support, so please let us know in your application how we can support you. Adjustments may include changes such as allowing extra time for tasks, or ensuring accessibility for mobility needs.
Depending on your location, opening and closing dates may vary. Here are some further details on the months when our vacancies are opening:
- Carpenter Box – November 2025
- Cowgills – November 2025
- DPC – opening date coming soon
- EQ – October 2025
- H W Fisher – November 2025
- Jerroms – February 2026
- Monahans – 9th December 2025
- RMT – opening date coming soon
- Scrutton Bland – October 2025
- Simmons Gainsford – opening date coming soon
- Sumer NI – November 2025
We understand these dates won’t be suitable for everyone, however open roles will be prioritised for those who are able to attend the dates we’re providing. If you’re unable to attend we will keep your application on file and should future assessment centres be held we will be sure to reach out to see if you can attend one of these instead.
Please keep a look out on our website in case we have any further opportunities arise this year. Register your interest for next year here.
If you haven’t passed this time you will need to wait six months before being able to retake the test. You are welcome to apply to multiple firms dependant on your location requirements.
Our intake joins us in late August, but don’t worry, we’ll make sure you have regular contact between accepting our offer and you joining us!
A strong academic history is part of our entry criteria but we don’t look for specific subjects. We’re passionate about finding the right talent that we can support to build and grow throughout a career with us.
We partner with a leading training provider who will support you through your technical qualification. In addition to this, you will be enrolled onto our Sumer Academy, a bespoke training journey that covers both technical and soft skills throughout your training with us. You can expect a blend of virtual, in person, and self-led learning to make sure you have every opportunity to reach your full potential.
We don’t offer any relocation cost support for this programme. However, if you’re successful in obtaining a role we will send you information closer to the time of joining which will include local estate agents, help with rental references and guides on the local area.
Please email your dedicated Talent Acquisition point of contact. If you’re yet to have one assigned, please email re*********@******co.uk
Belong @ Sumer
At Sumer, we know everyone’s journey is different. That’s why we’re committed to fairness, removing barriers and giving people the support they need to do their best work.
If you need any support during the hiring process, just let us know.
Join our talented team
Don't worry if you don't see any roles you want to apply for now. Register your interest to allow us to contact you when a suitable role meeting your criteria comes along.
Sumer Group Holdings Limited is a company registered in England and Wales under company number 14256975 with its registered office at Acre House, 11-15 William Road, London, United Kingdom, NW1 3ER. Sumer is the brand name under which firms which are members of and/or are connected to Sumer Group Holdings Limited operate and provide professional services. Each firm in the Sumer network is a separate legal entity. Sumer Group Holdings Limited does not provide audit, accountancy or other services to clients directly. The member firms can use the resources and/or services of other member firms. Sumer Group Holdings Limited is not an agent of any member firm and is not liable for any member firms. Each member firm is liable only for its own acts or omissions and not those of Sumer Group Holdings Limited and/or any other member firm.