Accounting and finance job entry requirements
A career in finance and accountancy remains one of the most reliable career paths, even in uncertain times. The recent economic challenges have reinforced this premise, but during periods of downturn, talented finance professionals are in even higher demand. They are crucial for driving growth, raising capital, and ensuring business sustainability.
If you are a graduate, it’s natural to be unsure of your next steps. Some may pursue further studies, others might go travelling, and some will be eager to jump straight into employment. There is no right or wrong path.
That said, a graduate job in accountancy offers a great opportunity for those uncertain about their future direction.
It allows you to gain full-time employment while continuing further training. Sound too good to be true?
Join us as we answer key questions about how to enter the industry, what to expect from your employer, and the potential career paths available.
I don’t have a degree in finance, accountancy or economics. Can I still get a job in accountancy?
First things first, you do not need a finance, accountancy, or economics degree to get a job in accountancy. Many employers value a variety of educational backgrounds and focus on skills and potential. While a degree can be beneficial, it's not always a prerequisite.
Lucy, a Loughborough graduate with a degree in chemistry, works as an Assistant Management Accountant at a Cambridgeshire FMCG business. She explains, “Starting a career in accountancy was an easy decision, as the maths and critical thinking skills I developed during my degree made finance a natural career path for me. Several people from my degree have chosen a similar career path too!”
Most of our clients at Marks Sattin look into hiring university graduates and are keen to speak with people with degrees in sciences, arts, and humanities subjects.
The most important thing is that you have a willingness to learn and develop within their organisation".
What are the entry requirements and skills needed for accounting and finance jobs?
Entry-level positions often require strong numerical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with relevant software. Internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level roles provide on-the-job training and experience.
Professional certifications like ACCA, CIMA, or AAT can also enhance your credentials and open doors to more opportunities, regardless of your academic background. With dedication and the right training, you can build a successful career in accounting and finance without a specialised degree.
What is the difference between the accountancy qualifications, and do I have to undertake one as part of my contract?
In most graduate finance and accountancy roles, you will be required to complete at least some modules to work toward becoming a qualified accountant.
However, your day-to-day work will support your studies, and your employer will assist you through the qualification process by providing resources and study support. Here are some details on the different qualifications:
-
ACCA
ACCA stands for the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, a leading international accountancy body. It is the largest and fastest growing qualification in the world with over 252,500 members and 526,000 future members in 180 countries. The ACCA qualification proves to employers that you are a competent finance professional.
To gain this qualification you must pass 13 exams in English and have relevant practical experience, which you can gain in any business sector you are working in. You can take up to four exams each season and a period of ten years to complete these exams. The average time to qualification is 3 years.
-
ACA
The ICAEW Chartered Accountant qualification, or ACA, is one of the most advanced learning and professional development programmes available. It is valued around the world in business, practice and the public sector.
To become an ICAEW Chartered Accountant, you must study and pass 15 exam modules focused on different aspects of accountancy, finance and business. Designed to provide you with in-depth knowledge across a range of topics, each of the ACA qualification modules is directly relevant to the work that you will do throughout your training.
-
CIMA
CIMA is a specialised management accounting qualification, which would suit individuals looking to work as a management accountant and manage a team.
When you become a qualified CIMA candidate, you can use the designation of Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA), giving you an industry-recognised qualification.
On average, students complete the 12 professional qualification exams in four years. Most students attempt two or three exams at each sitting, but they can be completed in three sittings.
What salary, bonus and benefits can I expect as a trainee accountant?
As a trainee accountant, you can expect a competitive salary, which typically ranges from £27,000 to £40,000 per year, depending on your location and the size of the firm.
In addition to your base salary, many firms offer performance-related bonuses, which can significantly enhance your earnings.
Benefits often include:
- Study support - many employers provide financial assistance for exam fees, study materials, and paid study leave to help you progress through your qualifications.
- Health and wellness - access to private healthcare, dental insurance, and wellness programs.
- Pension plans - contributions to pension schemes to help you save for the future.
- Paid time off - generous holiday allowances and additional leave for study or exam preparation.
- Professional development - opportunities for continuous learning and development through workshops, seminars, and mentoring programs.
- Flexible working - options for remote work or flexible hours to support work-life balance.
These packages are designed to support your career growth while ensuring a balanced and rewarding work experience.
For more information on regional salary and market trends, download our Market Insight and Salary Trend Report.
Where can I find graduate finance and accountancy roles, and how can Marks Sattin help me?
There are several places you can find graduate roles. Specialist job boards like Milkround (for graduates) and CityJobs (for finance and accountancy), generalist job boards like REED, and professional networking sites like LinkedIn.
Marks Sattin is a great place to start exploring your options in a more personalised way. Our consultants stay abreast of the latest trends in the graduate recruitment market. Whether it's commercial finance, financial services or professional services.
As a specialist recruitment firm with over 30 years of experience, we offer extensive networks, tailored job matching, and expert career guidance to help you secure the right role.
By partnering with Marks Sattin, you can streamline your job search and enhance your prospects in the finance and accountancy sector.
Search for your next accounting and finance job, or register your details to shortlist jobs and sign up for job alerts so you're the first to hear about our latest opportunities.
Signup to receive the latest discipline specific articles
Related articles
![What is the role of a financial controller?](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481115/1438233e-ba19-4fa6-bc88-cbe12d4d2518/2023.17000.2532/Blob/post_no_image.jpg)
Teaser
Finance & AccountingContent Type
General
04/09/24
Summary
An organisation’s financial controller is the executive responsible for overseeing all of the accounting functions of the firm, ensuring they are completed accurately and on time. From compiling
by
Carmine Scalzo
![The benefits of working as a contractor in accounting](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481115/1438233e-ba19-4fa6-bc88-cbe12d4d2518/2023.17000.2532/Blob/post_no_image.jpg)
Teaser
Commerce & IndustryContent Type
General
04/09/24
Summary
What is contract accounting? Contract accounting is a specialised field of accounting focused on managing and reporting the financial aspects of long-term contracts, such as construction pro
by
Julia Aruci
![8 Essential Strategies to Supercharge Your Job Search Success](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481115/1438233e-ba19-4fa6-bc88-cbe12d4d2518/2023.17000.2532/Blob/post_no_image.jpg)
Teaser
Financial ServicesContent Type
Career Advice
15/08/24
Summary
In a previous article, we explored five crucial strategies for optimising your job search in the UK finance sector. With the job market in London becoming increasingly challenging, we've compiled
by
Paul Roche
Related jobs
Salary:
£65,000 - £75,000 per annum + + bonus + pension
Location:
City of London, London
Industry
Investment Banking & Capital Markets
Qualification
Fully qualified
Market
Financial Services
Salary
£70,000 - £80,000
Job Discipline
Qualified Finance
Contract Type:
Permanent
Description
An exciting opportunity to join a Global Banking Group and play a pivotal role for their UK finance team.
Reference
BBBH181882
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Florin HodinituAuthor
Florin HodinituSalary:
£60,000 - £65,000 per annum
Location:
London
Industry
Real Estate
Qualification
Fully qualified
Market
Commerce & Industry
Salary
£60,000 - £70,000
Job Discipline
Newly Qualified Finance
Contract Type:
Contract
Description
Interim Portfolio Accountant required for a 12M FTC!
Reference
IM-PA01
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Jaden AlieAuthor
Jaden AlieSalary:
£80,000 - £100,000 per annum + Additional Benefits Package
Location:
Cheadle, Greater Manchester
Industry
Business Services
Qualification
Fully qualified
Market
Professional Services
Salary
£100,000 - £125,000
Job Discipline
Qualified Finance
Contract Type:
Permanent
Description
Group Financial Controller role paying between £80,000 - £100,000 based in Cheadle for an acquisitive PE backed organisation.
Reference
BBBH181420
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Nathan JonesAuthor
Nathan JonesSalary:
£70,000 - £78,000 per annum + Additional Benefits Package
Location:
Oldham, Greater Manchester
Industry
Manufacturing
Qualification
Fully qualified
Market
Commerce & Industry
Salary
£70,000 - £80,000
Job Discipline
Qualified Finance
Contract Type:
Permanent
Description
Financial Planning and Analysis Manager role working for a well-established international business paying up to £78,000 based in Oldham.
Reference
BBBH181733
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Nathan JonesAuthor
Nathan JonesSalary:
Up to £40,000 per annum
Location:
Leeds, West Yorkshire
Industry
Business Services
Qualification
None specified
Market
Commerce & Industry
Salary
£40,000 - £50,000
Job Discipline
Part Qualified & Transactional Finance
Contract Type:
Permanent
Description
Sales Ledger Manager - 12 Month FTC - £40k
Reference
BBBH181880
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Cameron WalshAuthor
Cameron WalshSalary:
£30,000 - £45,000 per annum
Location:
London
Industry
Property and Infrastructure
Qualification
Part qualified
Market
Commerce & Industry
Salary
£40,000 - £50,000
Job Discipline
Part Qualified & Transactional Finance
Contract Type:
Permanent
Description
A leading Property Developer is looking for an enthusiastic Assistant Management Accountant, keen to progress their finance career.
Reference
KD2626
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Kimberley DonovanAuthor
Kimberley DonovanSalary:
£28,000 - £30,000 per annum
Location:
Leeds, West Yorkshire
Industry
Business Services
Qualification
None specified
Market
Commerce & Industry
Salary
£30,000 - £35,000
Job Discipline
Part Qualified & Transactional Finance
Contract Type:
Permanent
Description
Credit Controller - Leeds - £30k
Reference
BBBH181878
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Cameron WalshAuthor
Cameron WalshSalary:
£26,000 - £28,000 per annum
Location:
Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Industry
Business Services
Qualification
None specified
Market
Commerce & Industry
Salary
£25,000 - £30,000
Job Discipline
Part Qualified & Transactional Finance
Contract Type:
Contract
Description
Finance Assistant - Wakefield
Reference
BBBH181877
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Cameron WalshAuthor
Cameron WalshSalary:
£60,000 - £70,000 per annum
Location:
Slough, Berkshire
Industry
Manufacturing
Qualification
Fully qualified
Market
Commerce & Industry
Salary
£70,000 - £80,000
Job Discipline
Qualified Finance
Contract Type:
Permanent
Description
Financial Accountant - Slough (2-3 days on site) - £60,000 to £70,000 + 12% Bonus
Reference
BBBH181569
Expiry Date
01/01/01
Author
Neil BurtonAuthor
Neil BurtonSalary:
£28,000 - £30,000 per annum
Location:
Leeds, West Yorkshire
Industry
Insurance
Qualification
None specified
Market
Commerce & Industry
Salary
£30,000 - £35,000
Job Discipline
External Audit
Contract Type:
Permanent
Description
Audit Co-Ordinator | Leeds | £28,000 | 12 month contract
Reference
BBBH181554
Expiry Date
01/01/01
![Megan Smith](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481115/1438233e-ba19-4fa6-bc88-cbe12d4d2518/2023.17000.2532/Blob/img/user_no_image.jpg)
Author
Megan Smith![Megan Smith](https://attraxcdnprod1-freshed3dgayb7c3.z01.azurefd.net/1481115/1438233e-ba19-4fa6-bc88-cbe12d4d2518/2023.17000.2532/Blob/img/user_no_image.jpg)
Author
Megan Smith