Top Jobs and Salaries

Finance

A dynamic and innovative career path that offers the opportunity to be at the heart of strategic decision-making.

The Field of Finance

The finance industry is a vast and complex field, offering a multitude of career paths for those with a talent for numbers, analysis, and strategic thinking.

Impact on Strategic Decisions

Financial professionals drive business strategy by analyzing data, predicting trends, and offering impactful recommendations, allowing them to significantly shape a company’s direction and success.

Global Opportunities

Finance is a global industry with hubs worldwide, offering opportunities for international work, travel, diverse team collaboration, and exposure to varied markets and regulations, enriching your skillset.

Intellectual Challenge and Skill Development

Finance involves complex problem-solving, data analysis, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of economic trends. This makes it an intellectually stimulating field, where you can continually learn and develop new skills. These skills are also highly transferable, making you a valuable asset in many other industries and roles.

Variety of Career Paths

The field of finance is wide-ranging, with numerous potential career paths available in areas like corporate finance, financial planning, investment banking, insurance, real estate, private equity, and more. Each path offers different challenges and rewards, meaning you’re likely to find a role that matches your interests and skills.

The Expansive Universe Of Finance

Finance professionals can work across a wide range of industries, given the universal need for financial management and analysis.

Banking and Financial Services

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This includes investment banks, retail banks, credit unions, credit card companies, insurance companies, brokerage firms, and private equity firms. Professionals in these industries might be involved in everything from managing investments and advising clients to analyzing financial risk and planning for financial growth.

Corporations

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Every large corporation has a finance department, and even small businesses need finance professionals. These individuals might be involved in managing company finances, making investment decisions, planning for financial growth, or analyzing financial data to inform business strategy.

Government

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Government agencies at the local, state, and federal level all require finance professionals. They may be involved in budgeting, financial reporting, auditing, or the development of financial regulations and policies.

Nonprofit Organizations

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These entities require financial management just like any business. Finance professionals working for nonprofits might be involved in budgeting, financial reporting, fundraising efforts, or ensuring financial compliance.

Consulting Firms

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Financial consultants can work with a variety of clients to help them manage their finances. This could include helping businesses optimize their financial performance, assisting individuals with personal financial planning, or advising clients on investment strategies.

Healthcare

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Hospitals, healthcare systems, and health insurance companies all require financial management. Finance professionals in this industry might be involved in budgeting, financial reporting, financial analysis, or the management of healthcare reimbursements.

Real Estate

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In real estate, finance professionals might be involved in property valuation, investment analysis, financing strategies, or property management.

Technology/Startups

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In the tech industry, finance professionals might be involved in fundraising efforts, financial planning, investment strategies, or financial analysis to inform business decisions.

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Job Description And Salaries In Finance

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts help businesses and individuals make investment decisions by assessing the performance of stocks, bonds, and other types of investments. They use their knowledge of the financial markets to identify potential opportunities and risks, and they help their clients develop investment strategies that meet their specific needs. 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS: Bachelor’s degree in finance or a related field, and many also have a master’s degree, strong analytical skills, knowledge of financial software.

AVERAGE SALARY: $81,590

Investment Banker

Investment bankers are responsible for raising capital for companies and other organizations. They do this by helping companies issue stocks and bonds, and by arranging mergers and acquisitions. Investment bankers also provide strategic advice to their clients on a variety of financial matters. This includes helping companies to develop growth strategies, to manage their risk, and to make investment decisions.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS: Bachelor’s degree, strong analytical skills, ability to work long hours.

AVERAGE SALARY: $96,543

Financial Manager

Financial managers are responsible for the financial health of an organization. They produce financial reports, direct investment activities, and develop strategies and plans for the long-term financial goals of their organization.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS: Bachelor’s degree, five years of experience, strong analytical skills.

AVERAGE SALARY: $129,890

Financial Advisor

Financial advisors are professionals who help individuals make financial decisions for their future. They offer a variety of services, including investment management, income tax preparation, and estate planning.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS: Bachelor’s degree, strong sales and analytical skills.

AVERAGE SALARY: $87,850

Accountant

Accountants prepare and examine financial records to ensure that they are accurate and that taxes are paid properly and on time. They also provide financial advice to businesses and individuals and help them to make sound financial decisions. Accountants must have a strong understanding of accounting principles and practices, as well as the ability to use financial software. They must also be able to communicate effectively with clients and other professionals.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS: Bachelor’s degree, strong mathematical and analytical skills.

AVERAGE SALARY: $71,550

Actuary

Actuaries use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to study uncertain future events, especially those of concern to insurance and pension programs. They use their knowledge to help businesses and individuals make informed decisions about risk and uncertainty. Actuaries are employed by a variety of organizations, including insurance companies, pension funds, and government agencies. They play a vital role in ensuring the financial stability of these organizations.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS: Bachelor’s degree, strong mathematical and analytical skills.

AVERAGE SALARY: $108,350

Budget Analyst

Budget analysts help public and private institutions organize their finances. They prepare budget reports and monitor institutional spending. They also analyze data to identify areas where costs can be reduced, or savings can be achieved. Budget analysts use their findings to develop recommendations for improving financial management. They may also be responsible for preparing financial statements and reports.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS: Bachelor’s degree, strong analytical skills.

AVERAGE SALARY: $76,540

Financial Examiner

Financial examiners ensure compliance with laws governing financial institutions and transactions. They review balance sheets to ensure that the institution is not overstating its assets or liabilities. They evaluate the risk level of loans to ensure that the institution is not lending too much money to borrowers likely to default. They also assess bank management to ensure the institution is running efficiently.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS: Bachelor’s degree, strong analytical skills.

AVERAGE SALARY: $81,090

Insurance Underwriter

Insurance underwriters are responsible for determining whether to provide insurance and under what terms. They evaluate insurance applications, including the applicant’s financial situation, the risk of loss, and the potential cost of the claim. Underwriters also determine coverage amounts and premiums. They must be able to assess risk and make sound financial decisions.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS: Bachelor’s degree, strong analytical skills.

AVERAGE SALARY: $70,020

Loan Officer

Loan officers evaluate, authorize, or recommend approval of loan applications for people and businesses. They review applications and supporting documentation to determine the applicant’s creditworthiness and the likelihood that the loan will be repaid.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS: Bachelor’s degree, strong sales and customer service skills. Loan officers must have a strong understanding of financial statements, credit scoring, and lending regulations.

AVERAGE SALARY: $63,270

Job Outlooks:

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FINANCIAL ANALYST
Expected to grow 5% from 2019 to 2029

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INVESTMENT BANKER
Expected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029

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FINANCIAL MANAGER
Expected to grow 15% from 2019 to 2029

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CYBERSECURITY ANALYST
Projected to grow 31% from 2019 to 2029

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ACCOUNTANT
Expected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029

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ACTUARY
Expected to grow 18% from 2019 to 2029

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BUDGET ANALYST
Expected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029

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FINANCIAL EXAMINER
Expected to grow 7% from 2019 to 2029

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INSURANCE UNDERWRITER
Expected to decline 6% from 2019 to 2029

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LOAN OFFICER
Expected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029

The Future of Financial Industry Jobs

The finance industry is poised for significant transformation in the future. Technological advancements, regulatory changes, and evolving customer expectations are driving these trends, which are reshaping the landscape and creating new opportunities for professionals in the field.

Fintech

Financial technology (fintech) innovations are revolutionizing the way financial services are delivered, making them more efficient, accessible, and customer-centric. From mobile banking and digital payments to robo-advisors and blockchain technology, fintech is disrupting traditional financial systems and creating a demand for professionals with tech-savvy skills.

Data Analytics

With the proliferation of big data, finance professionals are increasingly leveraging data analytics to make informed decisions, predict market trends, and provide personalized services. As a result, skills in data analysis and interpretation are becoming highly valued in the finance industry.

Sustainability

Sustainability is also becoming a central theme in finance. As more investors and consumers prioritize environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, financial institutions are integrating sustainability into their strategies and products. This shift towards sustainable finance is creating new roles and requiring finance professionals to understand ESG principles and their financial implications.

Decentralized Finance (DeFi)

Built on blockchain technology, DeFi represents a seismic shift from traditional centralized financial systems. It promises to democratize finance by removing intermediaries, offering services like lending, borrowing, and trading directly on the blockchain, often without the need for traditional banking entities.

It’s important to note that salaries can vary significantly depending on factors such as years of experience, geographic location, industry sector, and the size and complexity of projects. Additionally, salaries may also be influenced by market demand and economic conditions.
Apart from the aforementioned positions, finance offers a wide range of other specializations. Each specialization brings unique opportunities and potential for career growth.

It’s worth mentioning that salaries are just one aspect of job satisfaction. Other factors, such as work-life balance, job security, company culture, and opportunities for professional development, should also be considered when evaluating career options.