Last year the Association of Chartered Accountants' reported that accountancy jobs were set to become much more complex due to the increase in regulations and difficult business conditions that were on the horizon.
As a Finance Controller I’ve definitely noticed an increase in the complexity of my role in this very different commercial environment, but I’d still consider the job enjoyable and challenging. What’s more, as my role has developed over the past year, I’ve become more connected to the business and the commercial decisions that are made at board level.
The company I work for has obviously been affected by the current financial climate and many of my colleagues have unfortunately been made redundant. In order to help me to deal with the increased pressures of the work I do in financial analysis, the company has invested in my career by providing additional professional and personal training.
My advice for candidates considering a financial career would be to go for it! Keep a look out for jobs at all levels too, such as financial management or executive jobs as these can often provide inspiration for where to take your career. In addition, make sure you review the professional training opportunities that come up frequently as it is very important to stay ahead in financial regulations and procedures.
The current business environment maybe difficult, but if you apply yourself and take on all opportunities to add to your experience and skills, a job as an accountant is fulfilling, challenging and varied. I’d highly recommend a career in accountancy.
