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Top 12 Highest Paying Jobs in Accounting

Top 12 Highest Paying Jobs in Accounting

August 23, 2022

If you’re looking for a high-paying career, you may want to consider accounting. Accounting is one of the most important and well-paid professions in the business world

The average accountant earns a salary of around £40,000 per year, and some job titles can command salaries of six figures or more. But what does it take to become an accountant? And what career progression is available? 

In this article, we’ll explore the top-paying jobs in accounting and discuss what it takes to get into this lucrative field.

What is an accountant?

An accountant is a professional who provides financial services to individuals, businesses, and other organizations. Accountants typically have a background in accounting, finance, or business. They use their skills to prepare and maintain financial records, prepare tax returns, and advise clients on financial matters.

There are many different types of accountants, and they can specialize in different areas of the profession. For example, some accountants work as auditors, investigating the financial records of businesses to ensure they are accurate and compliant with regulations. 

Others may work as tax accountants, helping clients to minimize their tax liability. There are also management accountants, who provide advice on financial planning and budgeting to businesses.

How do you become an accountant?

To become an accountant, you will need to have a strong background in mathematics and financial accounting. You will also need to complete a professional accounting qualification, such as the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) or the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA). These qualifications are recognized worldwide and will give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the profession.

There is also a lot of competition for jobs in accounting. To give yourself the best chance of success, it’s important to gain experience in the field. Many accountants start their careers as interns or trainees, working their way up the ladder. Employers often look favourably at candidates who have previous experience in an accounting role.

How much can an accountant earn?

The average salary for an accountant in the UK is around £40,000 per year. However, salaries can vary depending on experience, qualifications, and job title. For example, a trainee accountant may earn a salary of £20,000 to £30,000 per year, while a senior accountant could earn £50,000 or more.

There are also many high-paying jobs in accounting. For example, financial controllers typically earn salaries of £80,000 or more. And chief financial officers (CFOs) can earn six-figure salaries for some companies. So if you’re looking for a high-paying career, accounting is definitely worth considering.

The top 12 highest earning jobs in accounting

1. Financial controller – £50,117

A financial controller is a senior accounting position responsible for the financial health of an organization. They typically have a degree in accounting or finance, and they must be certified accountants. Financial controllers are responsible for preparing financial statements, overseeing budgeting and forecasting, and providing financial advice to management.

2. Chief financial officer – £99,220

A chief financial officer (CFO) is a senior executive position responsible for the financial health of an organization. They are the highest-ranking financial executive in an organization, and they report to the CEO or president. CFOs are responsible for preparing financial statements, overseeing budgeting and forecasting, and providing financial advice to management.

3. Finance director – £103,620

A finance director is a senior executive position responsible for the financial health of an organization. They report to the CEO or president and are responsible for preparing financial statements, overseeing budgeting and forecasting, and providing financial advice to management.

4. Tax manager – £45,730

A tax manager is a professional who specializes in tax planning and compliance. They work with individuals, businesses, and other organizations to ensure they are compliant with tax laws. Tax managers typically have a degree in accounting or finance, and they may be certified public accountants (CPAs).

5. Internal auditor – £34,353

An internal auditor is a professional who audits an organization’s financial records. They ensure that the organization is complying with financial regulations and that its financial statements are accurate. Internal auditors typically have a degree in accounting or finance, and they may be certified public accountants (CPAs).

6. Risk manager – £49,958

A risk manager is a professional who helps organizations identify and manage risks. They work with businesses to assess risks, develop risk management plans, and implement controls to mitigate risks. Risk managers typically have a degree in accounting or finance, and they may be certified public accountants (CPAs).

7. Compliance officer – £27,309

A compliance officer is a professional who ensures that an organization is compliant with laws and regulations. They work with businesses to develop compliance programs, monitor compliance activities, and investigate potential violations. Compliance officers typically have a degree in accounting or finance, and they may be certified public accountants (CPAs).

8. Tax accountant – £29,413

A tax accountant is a professional who specializes in tax planning and compliance. They work with individuals, businesses, and other organizations to ensure they are compliant with tax laws. Tax accountants typically have a degree in accounting or finance, and they may be certified public accountants (CPAs).

9. Financial analyst – £34,017

A financial analyst is a professional who provides an analysis of an organization’s financial statements. They work with businesses to assess financial performance, identify risks and opportunities, and make recommendations for improvement. Financial analysts typically have a degree in accounting or finance, and they may be certified public accountants (CPAs).

10. Accounting manager – £35,578

An accounting manager is a professional who oversees the accounting function of an organization. They are responsible for ensuring that financial statements are accurate and comply with regulatory requirements. Accounting managers typically have a degree in accounting or finance, and they may be certified public accountants (CPAs).

11. Treasury analyst – £42,500

A treasury analyst is a professional who manages an organization’s cash flow. They work with businesses to forecast cash needs, invest surplus funds, and borrow money when needed. Treasury analysts typically have a degree in accounting or finance, and they may be certified public accountants (CPAs).

12. Credit analyst – £43,336

A credit analyst is a professional who evaluates an organization’s financial statements to determine its creditworthiness. They work with businesses to assess risk and make recommendations for credit decisions. Credit analysts typically have a degree in accounting or finance, and they may be certified public accountants (CPAs).

What is the best way to increase your earning potential?

Once you are qualified as an accountant, the best way to increase your earning potential is by sticking with it. Accountants will naturally see their salaries increase as their experience in the sector increases.

Another great way to increase your earnings is to choose the right company to work for. Some will offer attractive bonuses and profit-sharing schemes, so good performance will be rewarded with increased earning potential.

And finally, you could consider securing chartered status. As a chartered accountant, you will have access to a wider range of jobs with earnings in excess of £80,000. Add on bonus schemes, benefits and a generous pension plan, and it becomes easy to see why this route is an attractive option for many accountants.

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