Commerce and Industry
A growing number of graduates are beginning their accountancy careers in banks and businesses. Whether you work in a large global organisation or a small business, working in this sector means that you will experience the full process of financial management and reporting.
Typically, accountants working within financial services work in middle office banking roles such as monitoring trade activity but you will also develop an understanding of IT, marketing, sales and operations.
You will be working in a highly competitive environment at times, with rapidly-changing risks and constant demand for innovation. As your career progresses, you will become involved in making strategic decisions to drive the business forward, creating plans and leading change for business success.
Why work in commerce and industry?
Working in business and financial services allows you to make strategic decisions and work towards the growth of a company, which can offer a great deal of personal satisfaction. Many choose to work in commerce within an industry that they are particularly passionate about, such as media or technology.
Routes into commerce and industry
A common route into commerce and industry is to make the move once they have completed their training agreements. This can include major commercial companies, such as those in manufacturing, retail and telecoms industries, though many of these companies also offer ACA training through themselves. Financial services include global banks such as Goldman Sachs, HSBC and Macquarie, some of which will offer accountancy training.
Accountants are needed in all areas of industry to manage budgets, monitor the economic health of the company and to make important strategic decisions.
Accountants will often occupy the most senior positions in companies, all the way to chief executive.
