A Financial Analyst is a commercially driven accountant who is often responsible for influencing decision making through analysing financial information and reports. The Financial Analyst may also be responsible for preparing financial reports and should be a key driver in reducing costs, improving processes and increasing profitability.
Financial Analysts carry out reporting, reviewing and analysis tasks within the finance and accounting departments of companies, the public sector and not for profit organisations.
Financial Analysts often work within finance departments, working closely with colleagues to provide regular financial reporting and commentaries as well as working in cross functional teams on standalone projects. Financial Analysts are often called upon to provide financial knowledge of the industry sector in which a company operates in order to allow a company to consolidate its position within its market or to aid expansion plans.
The key responsibility of a Financial Analyst is to provide insight and solutions to allow a company to identify and resolve problems where necessary in order to provide financial stability and a sound financial foundation for future success.
Duties mayinclude
Regular and one-off accounting tasks.
Management and analysis of budgets.
Preparation for and assisting with the auditing process.
Working alongside clients to provide support and resolution of financial problems and queries.
Financial research for specific assignments or projects.
Financial Analysts work in all areas of commerce and industry as well as the public sector.
Qualifications
In order to work as a Financial Analyst, you will usually be a qualified or part-qualified accountant, having studied (or be in the process of studying) with CIMA, ACCA, ICAEW or other recognised accounting bodies.
Salary Snapshot
Recent salaries advertised on TopFinancialJobs (October 2009) include:
£35-45,000 per annum for a qualified Financial Analyst working in Hampshire for a large retail organisation.
£40-50,000 for a part qualified Financial Analyst working in the City for a top tier investment bank.
£22-24 per hour for a qualified accountant to work on contract for 4-6 months as a Finance Analyst at a large media broadcaster, providing financial advice and ensuring good financial control in a key business division.
£38-42,000 for a qualified Financial Analyst in Bedfordshire for a household name within the property and engineering sector.
Are you a Financial Analyst? Would you like to contribute to our "Day in the Life of..." series? Email us at info@topfinancialjobs.co.uk for more details.
