Knowledge Hub

If you’ve recently qualified through the ACA program and are looking to move into industry, you’re likely asking yourself: • What types of job functions are open to me? • What do they entail? • How competitive are the roles to move into? Broadly speaking, the moves you can make tend to fall into three categories: • Corporate Finance / Investment Analytics • Commercial Finance • Reporting & Control

For many recently qualified professionals, a natural next step is a role focused on financial reporting and control. These positions closely align with audit experience, making for a smoother transition into industry or corporate roles.

Many newly 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.

One potential route after qualifying from audit is a move into corporate finance or investment analytics. The most common entry point is through internal advisory teams within your current firm, though some professionals transition directly into industry roles or boutique advisory firms. These positions can be highly competitive, so a strong foundation in financial analysis and modelling is essential.

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” Nelson Mandela Often described as the capacity to recover from setbacks and maintain a positive mindset, resilience is more than just a personality trait, it is an underrated and underdeveloped skill that we, as leaders, must possess. In a world where change is the only constant, the ability to bounce back, adapt, and lead with purpose has become a crucial differentiator.

While much attention is given to the questions asked during interviews, the format of the interview itself can be equally important in determining recruitment success. Whether structured or unstructured, choosing the right format is more than just a logistical decision, it’s fundamental to ensuring that you find the right balance between technical competency and cultural fit. This balance is crucial to hiring a candidate who not only performs well in their role but also integrates well into your company’s values, processes, and long-term goals.