If you’re a newly qualified finance professional, you’re entering a world of diverse and exciting career opportunities. To help you understand your options, here’s a comprehensive overview of the varied roles within finance, along with their key responsibilities. At Emerald Zebra, we’re here to guide you every step of the way as you navigate your career journey in Cyprus or internationally.
Accounting
- Accounting offers a clear career path with ample opportunities for advancement.
- Essential for almost all businesses, accounting ensures long-term job stability.
- Accountants work with a diverse client base, from small businesses to large corporations.
- Experienced professionals can explore entrepreneurship by opening their own firms or consultancies.
Corporate Finance
- Gain a deep understanding of how businesses operate by working in a corporate finance team that secures funding, manages capital, and executes takeovers.
- Be at the heart of business operations, contributing directly to a company’s success.
- Roles often include drafting proposals, preparing financial projections, coordinating teams, and advising on system enhancements.
Corporate Recovery & Insolvency
- Help businesses avoid bankruptcy by implementing recovery strategies that enhance financial health and operational efficiency.
- Support businesses in gaining the confidence of investors, partners, and customers through strong recovery plans.
- Play a crucial role in improving a company’s competitive edge in challenging times.
External Audit
- Use your expertise to advise clients across a variety of industries and sectors.
- Specialise in specific client industries (e.g., financial services or public sector) to enhance your technical and interpersonal skills.
- Aim for career advancement to a partner-level role, where you can enjoy autonomy, strategic decision-making, and significant financial rewards.
- Work in a collaborative environment with highly skilled professionals across multiple disciplines.
Financial Accounting/Reporting
- Prepare and present financial statements and management information.
- Handle complex financial control topics and provide expert advice.
- Build strong stakeholder relationships and address financial control queries effectively.
Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A)
- Provide analytical support on profit and loss, balance sheets, and cash flow.
- Conduct market analysis to evaluate the firm’s performance against competitors.
- Engage in financial modelling and other analytical projects.
- Act as a business partner for key stakeholders.
Forensic Accounting
- Forensic accountants are in demand due to their expertise in investigating financial crimes and preventing fraud.
- Uncover financial irregularities, present findings in court, and protect businesses from fraudulent activities.
- Assist in business valuation, dispute resolution, and presenting complex financial data clearly and concisely.
Internal Audit
- Conduct financial and operational audits, providing reports with key findings and recommendations.
- Work with senior stakeholders to implement meaningful changes and add value to the business.
- Travel internationally to understand global strategies and practices.
- Build a career path that may lead to roles in risk management or core finance teams.
Management Accounting
- Prepare budgets and forecasts based on prior financial performance.
- Conduct variance analysis and commentary to evaluate discrepancies between forecasts and actual results.
- Analyse costs and revenue, providing key insights into business performance.
Product Control
- Oversee daily profit and loss related to financial products like equities, commodities, and foreign exchange.
- Analyse trends and variances in trading activities and provide insightful commentary.
- Support front-office teams with valuation controls and price testing to ensure fair trade values.
Regulatory Reporting
- Analyse and produce accurate regulatory reports to meet external requirements.
- Monitor regulatory policy changes and advise senior management on implications.
- Track and manage a company’s risk, capital, and liquidity positions.
Tax
- Advise clients on efficient tax strategies while navigating complex legislation.
- Stay updated on changing tax laws to ensure businesses benefit from exemptions and advantages.
- Progress to senior advisory roles, adding value to corporate tax strategies.
Treasury
- Manage financial and risk aspects, including liquidity, funding, and investor relations.
- Early roles may include bank administration, data analysis, and cash forecasting.
- Treasury offers opportunities to work in both small teams within large corporations and consultancy roles in advisory firms.
- Gain exposure to major businesses, collaborating with CFOs and financial directors.
Specialist Finance Roles
Internal Audit
- Act as a proactive business partner, reducing risk and adding value.
- Use external audit experience to transition into internal audit, showcasing transferable skills.
- Internal auditors often move into risk management or corporate finance roles.
Product Control
- Ensure the quality and valuation of financial products while providing insights to improve efficiency.
- Competitive and fast-paced, this role requires strong problem-solving and communication skills.
Tax (In-House)
- In-house tax professionals handle mainstream tax compliance and corporate tax strategy.
- Develop international expertise by managing tax regulations across multiple jurisdictions.
Treasury
- Treasury roles provide exposure to financial risk management, global supply chains, and pricing strategies.
- Work closely with senior management to develop skills and advance in your career.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
At Emerald Zebra, we understand that every career is unique. Whether you’re in Cyprus or looking for international opportunities, our expert consultants are here to help you navigate your next steps. Contact us today, and let’s find the role that’s perfect for you.
