Finance Manager Scheme 2026

If you’re looking to start a career in finance with real progression, strong support, and room to learn and grow, Wickes would be the right place to begin. We have an exciting opportunity for school leavers and graduates to join our Finance Manager Scheme. Based at our Support Centre in Watford, the scheme offers a structured 3 to 4 year programme combining real experience whilst studying for the Association of Chartered Accountants (ACCA) qualification, professional development and clear career pathways. We open this scheme once a year, so this is your chance to apply.

You'll be part of a finance team that supports a fast-paced, growing FTSE 250-listed business and build the skills needed to progress into a finance manager role.

What you’ll learn and do:

• Develop technical expertise in financial analysis, month-end reporting and other core financial competencies
• Benefit from direct mentorship and coaching from senior finance leaders to understand the "why" behind business decisions.
• Build a corporate network through dedicated workshops, internal events, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Provide data-driven insights to help departments optimise their budgets and financial performance.
• Take ownership of projects that directly impact our operational efficiency.
• By the end of our programme, you’ll be a qualified accountant.
  
  

Who we’re looking for:

What matters most to us is your positive attitude and potential. And you’d need the following:

• You have positive energy and thrive in a fast-paced environment!
• You’re keen to understand how financial figures drive commercial performance
• You’re a school-leaver or graduate with a keen interest in a career in finance
• You’ve achieved a minimum of 3 Bs at A-Level (or equivalent) and a grade 7 or above in both Maths and English at GCSE.
• You’ve achieved an Upper Second-Class Honours degree (2:1) or higher. (Not applicable for school leavers)
• You’re motivated to learn and develop.
• You’re curious about how business works.
• You have strong communication skills.
  
  

If that sounds like you, you’ll be well supported here at Wickes.

Application process

• Apply online: complete the online application form and tell us about your education, experience, aspirations, and why Wickes is right for you.
• Case study: complete a real-world case study designed for you to showcase your financial mindset.
• Assessment centre and interview: shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in an assessment day which includes interviews and aptitude tests.
• Final Interview: shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by a member of the Senior Finance Leadership Team.
• Offer: successful candidates will receive a formal offer of employment to join the scheme.
  
  

What can we offer you?

You’ll receive structured learning, mentoring and on-the-job experience designed to help you grow with confidence. We’ll fund your books, courses as well as your first exam attempts. You’ll get study leave for each exam. Your starting salary is £30,000. As you progress through the scheme and complete your qualifications, your salary will increase each year, recognising your development and achievement.

You’ll also benefit from:

• Competitive bonus
• Save As You Earn scheme
• Contributory pension
• 20% colleague discount
• Access to a discount platform with cashback and savings at a wide range of retailers
• Cycle-to-work scheme and gym discounts
  
  

Our culture is one of our strongest assets. We offer flexible working, with a blend of office and remote working. We support a healthy balance between work and life, so you can be at your best in both.

About Wickes

What we’re most proud of is our culture. We’re inclusive, supportive and down-to-earth, with a strong sense of teamwork and shared ambition. At Wickes, you can be yourself, ask questions and grow at your own pace.

We're a multi-channel home improvement retailer. We generate £1.6bn+ in revenue, operating across 230 stores and online, and are supported by over 8000 colleagues.