Sunday, March 09, 2008
Link to Jobs Profiles for CIMA members
Ideal job profiles summary:
1. Management accountant
This is a core role for CIMA members. Commercially minded accountants with strong modelling and analysis skills will be suited to this role. Interaction with finance and non finance professionals on a regular basis requires excellent communication skills as you prepare, interpret and communicate a variety of reports for your portfolio of internal clients.
2. Business analyst
To be considered for one of these high profile roles, you need to be enthusiastic with good time management and prioritisation skills. You should also be an accountant who has already developed a high degree of commercial acumen and demonstrated good levels of analytical ability. Great communicators who are able to develop working relationships with commercial and other finance teams tend to thrive in these roles.
3. Financial analyst
Those who are more technically orientated and who enjoy using their knowledge of accounting standards and keeping it up to date should opt for this role. For example, if finding niche holes in tax structures or interpreting the depreciation of assets appeals, then this role will allow you to make a real difference.
4. Finance director
The most senior finance post in an entity, company or division of a group. The finance team (and at times other functions like information technology, logistics and human resources) will report and seek guidance from this executive.
5. Chief financial officer
The main distinction between a finance director and CFO is whether they are responsible for a single entity or multiple entities. You will find CFOs overseeing a group of companies or entities, with multiple FDs reporting into this function. The CFO typically holds a post on the board of directors, reporting to the chief executive officer.
6. Financial controller
Commercial acumen is often a key requisite sought by companies recruiting financial controllers. They are in a position to advise and influence operational management on the financial impact in terms of ‘risks and opportunities’ of commercial decisions.
7. Director of business planning
A head of business planning will be at the hub of the business. They typically report to the finance director but work with the senior management team, engage and challenge them about the business direction and strategy. They also often ensure that the commercial aims of the business are achieved while maintaining prudence in terms of financial control and asset protection.
& 11:20 pm
