Financial Graduate Review

My experience at Hays has been extremely positive and aligned with what I hoped for from a graduate programme. It has provided a strong platform for learning and development within my chosen field - accounting. The programme offers the right balance of guidance and independence, giving me space to learn while assigning meaningful and challenging tasks that add real value.
One of the standout aspects has been the exposure to colleagues at all levels of the business. Regular interactions with senior leaders have been insightful and approachable, allowing me to learn directly from their experience. Additionally, having access to previous graduates - both those further along in the programme and those who have qualified - has been invaluable. They understand the journey and have offered practical advice and support.
The respect and consideration given to the ACA exams is another major strength. The programme provides dedicated study days and creates an environment tailored to help us perform at our best, which demonstrates a genuine commitment to our long-term success.
Overall, the graduate programme has exceeded my expectations by combining professional development, networking opportunities, and exam support in a way that feels structured yet flexible.

The graduate role offers a broad range of responsibilities through structured rotations across multiple areas of the business. These include Financial Accounting, Internal Audit, Investor Relations, and Group Tax, among others. Each rotation provides unique tasks and learning opportunities tailored to that specific function, ensuring a well-rounded experience.
What I enjoy most is the exposure this programme provides. Being able to interact with colleagues across different teams and levels of the organisation is invaluable, especially for a graduate whose primary goal is to learn. The rotational structure is another highlight - it allows me to gain insight into diverse areas of finance, which not only enhances my technical knowledge but also helps me make informed decisions about my future career path after completing the ACA qualification.

The support provided throughout the graduate programme has been exceptional. I could not ask for more. In particular, the Talent and Development Manager plays a key role in supporting graduates with almost any aspect of the programme. Having a dedicated point of contact who understands our needs makes a huge difference. She was instrumental in launching the programme over 13 years ago and has continuously refined it based on her experience and the feedback from previous graduates.

Yes

The graduate programme offers everything you could want to kick-start your career. There is excellent support throughout the ACA exams, ensuring you have the resources and guidance to succeed. The work is meaningful and genuinely contributes to your learning and development, while also feeling like you're adding value to the company. Additionally, you have the opportunity to interact with a wide range of professionals who bring a wealth of experience, allowing you to gain invaluable knowledge and broaden your perspective.