Finance and Consultancy sector
The finance and consultancy sector plays a vital role in shaping business strategy and economic growth across the UK. From advising global firms to managing investments, it offers intellectually stimulating careers with real-world impact.
Roles such as financial analyst or strategy consultant allow graduates to apply problem-solving and analytical skills in dynamic environments. Many employers offer structured graduate schemes or training contracts, making it an accessible and rewarding path for students from diverse academic backgrounds.
With its blend of challenge, prestige, and progression, this sector is ideal for those seeking to influence decision-making and drive innovation in a fast-paced world.
The finance sector is a dynamic and impactful space where every challenge brings the chance to innovate.
Barclays
Explore events and opportunites
Explore finance and consultancy events, including employer-led events, alumni panels, skills workshops, and networking sessions.
Browse current graduate roles, internships, and placements in finance, consultancy, and related fields.
Work experience
Gaining experience in finance and consultancy is key to building commercial awareness and analytical skills. Many employers expect applicants to have completed internships or insight schemes, especially for competitive graduate roles. Being proactive - whether through part-time jobs, student society roles, or case competitions can help you stand out and demonstrate your interest in the sector.
- Apply for spring weeks, summer internships, or industrial placements
- Take part in finance or consulting student societies and competitions
- Explore part-time roles that develop transferable skills like communication and problem-solving
- Build your knowledge and network by taking online courses (e.g. Excel, financial modelling), attending employer events, and connecting with professionals on LinkedIn. Explore support and opportunities on our Work Experience and Internships page.
You may be eligible to apply for work experience bursaries through The University of Birmingham. For more details visit the internship funding pages.
Graduate and employer insights
The finance sector is a dynamic and impactful space where every challenge brings the chance to innovate. At Barclays, we value curiosity, adaptability, and a collaborative mindset – qualities that help drive meaningful change. For students, it’s a career path that rewards those eager to learn, grow, and make a real difference in the world of business, finance and beyond.
Barclays
Many of our graduates from University of Birmingham have gone on to pursue careers in Finance and Consultancy, read their stories for inspiration and consider connecting with them on LinkedIn.
Tobias Lazar
Financial Engineering MSc
Working for a global investment company
Read Tobias's Story »
Aarya Dhijirth
International Money and Banking MSc
PWM (Private Wealth Management) Performance Analyst
Read Aarya's Story »
King Wellington
Business Administration MSc
Founder of DONE BY US
Read King's Story »
Oscar Xing
Money, Banking and Finance MSc
General Manager & Chairman Assistant at Shanghai Imilab Technology
Read Oscar's Story »
Useful Resources
Membership and professional bodies