What are some careers in finance? These graduates develop the ability to read and interpret spreadsheets and financial statements. The top jobs in Finance according to the latest Occupational Outlook Handbook of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, are as shown below:
FINANCIAL ANALYST
Financial analysts conduct research on stocks, bonds etc., construct financial models and conduct deep quantitative analysis. They can build on their financial training to delve deep into financial statements and financial data, and present analysis which helps companies take on major investment decisions like expansions, mergers, etc.
Job and Skills Outlook
- Median annual salary – around $85,660
- Entry-level Education – Bachelor’s degree in Finance
- Recommended additional certifications like CFA
Glassdoor UK rates financial analyst jobs as one of the highest-paying entry-level jobs with a median annual base salary of £28,717 in 2019. According to Glassdoor India, the average base pay for a financial analyst position is ₹ 5,00,000 per year.
FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Financial Advisors normally advise companies regarding their financial conditions, including consulting on taxation, investments, insurance, etc. Personal financial advisors advise clients relating to their personal investment decisions like buying or selling bonds, stocks, etc.
Jobs and Skills Outlook
- Median annual salary – $ 87,850
- Entry-level Education – Bachelor’s degree in Finance
- Recommended certifications like CFA, CFP
Glassdoor UK lists the salary of Financial Advisors with an average base pay of £40,337 per year. As per Glassdoor India, the Financial Advisor’s average base salary is at ₹3,67,000 per year.
FINANCIAL MANAGERS
Financial Managers are instrumental in the creation of financial reports, taking investment decisions, and long-term financial plans for a company. They work across different industries like banks, investment firms, etc.
Jobs and Skills Outlook
- Median annual salary – $ 129,890
- Entry-level Education – Bachelor’s degree in Finance
- Experience of 5+ years in a finance role like financial analyst, accountant etc.
Glassdoor UK shows the annual median salary for Finance Managers at £51,165 indicating the great demand for such jobs. Glassdoor India’s salary average base for Finance Managers is at ₹13,42,000 per year, indicating that this job profile has great demand in India.
CREDIT ANALYST
Credit analysts are responsible for evaluating the financial prudency and credit rating of the loan applications and the risks attached to offering finance. With the boom in Fintech and advances in technology, there is a lot of scope for credit analysts as a viable career in finance.
Jobs and Skills Outlook
- Median annual salary – $ 73,650
- Entry-level Education – Bachelor’s degree in Finance
According to Glassdoor UK, credit analysts are seen to earn an average base pay of £45,292 over a year. Glassdoor India puts the average median salary for credit analysts at ₹7,78,000 per year, the demand for this profile is increasing due to the booming fintech sector in India
INVESTMENT BANKER
Investment Bankers have a diverse role-play ranging from consulting clients on various financial decisions like managing financial assets, trading securities, etc., to raising money for business operations. Their roles may include that of portfolio managers, financiers, etc.
Jobs and Skills Outlook
- Median annual salary – $ 64,120
- Entry-level Education – Bachelor’s degree in Finance
- Recommended CFA certifications
Glassdoor UK gives great weightage to investment banking positions showing the average base pay at a high of £77,000 per year. The position holds great value in India also, as according to Glassdoor India, the median annual salary for an investment banker is at ₹8,18,,000.
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Chief Financial Officer is the top executive position in Finance where they devise strategies and laws, and lead a company in meeting its financial goals and overall development. Their responsibilities include identifying growth trends to bringing innovation to the table for churning out success stories for the organization.
Jobs and Skills Outlook
- Median annual salary – $ 184.460
- Entry-level Education – Bachelor’s degree in Finance
- Experience of 5+ years in key senior finance roles as finance manager etc.
- Recommended CPA, and MBA certifications
Glassdoor UK shows the median annual salary for CFO’s £1,29,710. CFOs earn a very high salary in India as according to Glassdoor India, the average base pay for the position is at ₹44,92,000 per year.