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.

You’re a newly qualified accountant, you’ll soon complete your training contract, the world is at your feet! So what should you do next? Do you stay and continue your career in practice? Or, should you leave and make the jump into industry?