Accountants are needed in every organisation, big or small, all around the world. But there are some jobs that are more in demand than others, so if you’re looking for a job, accounting is practically a sure-fire route to employment.
Here’s a quick run down of some of the most in demand jobs, and what they entail.
Bookkeeper
Bookkeeping is one of the oldest professions, and involves keeping accurate financial records relating to an organisation. The reports that bookkeepers produce go straight to managers and owners to help them make solid financial decisions.
You can work as part of an accounting team, or set up on your own and have multiple clients - the choice is yours.
What do bookkeepers earn? Roughly £27,000 p/a* depending on experience, or number of clients if self-employed.
What qualifications do you need? We recommend AAT Level 2 and Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping or ACA Practical Bookkeeping.
Auditor
Auditors are responsible for reviewing company accounts, ensuring legal compliance and the validity of financial records. They can also act as an advisor, recommending ways to save money, or how to mitigate risk.
What do auditors earn? Roughly £42,000 p/a* depending on experience and location
What qualifications do you need? To become an auditor you’ll need to gain a Chartered Accountancy qualification. If you're brand new to accountancy, the AAT Professional Qualification is a great entry point, covering all the main areas of accountancy and tax.
Other options include ACCA Foundations or ACA Certificate in Finance or Business (CFAB). These qualifications will help you get your first role in an accounts department, allowing you to get hands-on experience.
On completion (or if you have exemptions), you can then go on to study the Professional ACCA or ACA qualifications, which will allow you to apply for roles as a trainee Auditor.
Accountant
“Accountant” is a term that can be adopted by many roles, but generally speaking they handle financial transactions by recording a range of different financial information. They can also analyse financial data, and report on their findings. Accountants may also do some auditing, and prepare tax returns. They can be part of a larger team in an organisation, or be self-employed and have multiple clients.
What do accountants earn? Roughly £52,000 p/a* depending on location and experience, or number of clients if self-employed.
What qualifications do you need? A great starting point is AAT - you can start with no experience, but you do need good Maths, IT, and English skills. Beyond that you can do ACCA and become a Chartered Accountant.
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts research economic conditions and review an organisation's finances to make sure that they make sound financial decisions. They will report on findings and suggest improvements or options for the decision-makers to consider.
What do Financial Analysts earn? Roughly £47,000 p/a* depending on location and experience.
What qualifications do you need? You will need a bachelor’s degree in a finance-related subject, such as economics, statistics, or accounting. From there you should get the CFA charter for senior level positions - it’s the most prestigious designation a financial analyst can achieve.
Financial Controller
Financial Controllers are responsible for overseeing the accounting function of a company. They make sure that all records are updated and handled responsibly, and comply with accounting standards.
What do Financial Controllers earn? Roughly £47,000 p/a* depending on location and experience.
What qualifications do you need? You will need a relevant degree in a subject such as Maths, Business, or Economics. You will also need an accountancy qualification such as ACCA, CIMA, or ACA-ICAEW.
Interested in getting in-demand qualifications?
Check out our accounting page for more information - there are so many options available to get started in accountancy, and pave the way for a fantastic career. We even have free trials so you can see if the course is right for you.
*totaljobs.com/salary-checker