06.08.25

Recently Qualified ACA: Commercial Finance

Many recently qualified professionals begin their post-audit careers in commercial finance roles. These positions provide strong exposure to business operations and decision-making, either through traditional budgeting and forecasting roles or hybrid positions that include elements of accounting and reporting.

Fund Finance / Fund Accountant
Supports the financial operations of investment funds, ensuring accurate valuations, cash flow tracking, accounting and investor reporting.

  • Fund Valuations / Deal Support
    Collaborate with deal teams and ensure accurate valuation of underlying investments or assets, including support in asset onboarding/disposal
  • Fund Accounting
    Review fund-level and entity-level accounts (often prepared by third-party administrators) for accuracy and compliance.
  • Investor Reporting & Capital Activity
    Prepare investor reports, capital account statements, and notices for contributions and distributions.
  • Budgeting & Forecasting
    Build and maintain short- and long-term budgets and forecasts across one or more funds or portfolios.

FP&A Analyst (Financial Planning & Analysis)
Focuses on budgeting, forecasting, and performance analysis at a group or divisional level within a corporate environment.

  • Budgeting & Forecasting
    Develop and manage budgets and rolling forecasts for departments, business units, or corporate entities.
  • Management Reporting & Analysis
    Produce financial performance reports and variance analyses (actuals vs. budget/forecast).
  • Financial Modelling & Scenario Planning
    Evaluate business performance under different market and operational scenarios.
  • Strategic & Commercial Support
    Partner with business units to support pricing decisions, cost optimisation, and growth initiatives.

Finance Business Partner
Acts as a key liaison between finance and operational teams, providing data-driven insights to support strategic and tactical decisions.

  • Budgeting & Forecasting
    Lead or coordinate budgeting and reforecasting for specific projects, teams, or divisions.
  • Management Reporting & Analysis
    Deliver performance insights through regular reporting and commentary on key financial drivers.
  • Financial Modelling & Scenario Planning
    Model outcomes of strategic options, investment decisions, or operational changes.
  • Strategic & Commercial Support
    Conduct ad hoc analysis to inform decisions on resource allocation, profitability, and business performance.