If you’re someone who loves numbers (and is good with them!), then the accounting industry might be the right career choice for you.
One of the things that draw many job seekers in, is the fact the Finance sector is one of the highest paying in the UK economy.
It goes without saying that with good pay comes long hours and gruelling days at the office – sometimes you might not love numbers as much as you think you do! But like any job, if you stick with it and work hard then it will pay off.
Here are some of the Top Paying Account Careers and a little about what they do:
Partner – typical salary of £500,000 +
Being a Partner in an accounting firm means that you’ve become one of the owners. You’ll be responsible for developing and managing client relationships, identifying new business opportunities, and contributing to growth and development. There is a mixture of rewards and benefits, and it’s worth noting that this role isn’t for everyone. With this role comes a lot of decision-making and great responsibility as you’ll be making sure financial targets are met, and that your team is meeting the needs of your clients.
Group FD / Chief Financial Officer – typical salary of £160,000
Think of these guys as the captain of the ship! They supervise cash management activities, executive capital-raising strategies to support a firm’s expansion, and deal with mergers and acquisitions. CFOs will direct a company’s financial goals, objectives, and budgets, and will sit on the board.
Head of Audit – typical salary of £100,000 – £120,000
Evaluating and examining paperwork and processes to make sure a structure is precise and correct. They make sure the auditors follow the rules and regulations set by other governing bodies. Often, they’ll develop references and reports (centred on audits – shock!) and ascertain business process threats. The Head of Audit will also assess the adequacy and effectiveness of governance and management of risks and give an evidence-based opinion.
Finance Director – typical salary of £100,000
The FD is responsible for developing, implementing and overseeing financial reporting processes for businesses i.e. income statements, cash flow reports, balance sheets etc. They will have a heavy input into the company’s direction and strategy. The difference between a Finance Director and Chief Financial Officer is that a CFO typically sits on the executive board.
Group Financial Controller – typical salary of £82,000
An essential part of any group finance team! They will implement the appropriate policies, procedures, and processes in a company to ensure an effective control environment. They’ll report to the leadership to inform decision-making and drive business performance.
Financial Controller – typical salary of £73,000
A Financial Controller supervises and manages the finance department. They establish and implement financial reporting systems, examine financial reports (looking for errors), manage business cash flow, and ensure all company transactions are properly recorded. Often responsible for things like financial statements, general ledger, payroll, account payable etc.
Financial Planning / Analysis Manager – typical salary of £70,000
This role involves setting up a pension, picking an investment or selecting an insurance provider. Financial planners will then create a strategy for a company’s finances by using their skills in taxes, budgeting, pensions, and investments.
Tax Manager – typical salary of £67,000
Tax Managers are the ones who oversee preparing and completing state tax documents. They’ll work with external advisors to establish frameworks for tax compliance. This job role requires keeping up to date with all the latest changes in tax.
Senior Finance Business Partner – typical salary of £64,000
A Senior Finance Business Partner will build partnerships and maintain strong relationships with senior managers and their teams. They will work with various people around the business giving support around financial budgets, targets, and dealing with any financial queries. They’ll take leadership when undertaking financial reviews and assessments, as well as be familiar with IT systems and Excel.
