Accountancy, often the butt of Monty Python-style jokes, is not boring, and has much to offer as a career option. The profession is an open door to a wide range of opportunities, with accountants employed by private sector businesses, individual clients, third sector organisations, and government bodies at both local and national level. From a career point of view, there are opportunities at graduate level with competitive salaries, options for further professional qualifications and international opportunities. Accountancy can also be a stepping stone to general management, and many accountants go on to run their own companies.
Accountants are a fundamental part of any organisation or business. They help organisations run efficiently, keep accurate and up to date financial records, and ensure tax and other revenues due are paid correctly and promptly.
Taxation itself is an entire specialised field of accountancy, with some accountants preparing tax statements of both corporate and personal type. They can also advise on and implement strategies for determining which expenses and business costs can be offset against tax bills.
The main role of an accountant is to process financial data and prepare or verify documents for clients and auditors. Other accountancy services include analysis of budgets, the planning of financial strategy and investments, and some basic legal advice.
Would be accountants do not need an accountancy degree, as graduates from all academic disciplines work in the profession. However, a good, solid academic record is important for any aspiring accountant with most firms seeking recruits with at least Bs and a C at A-level.
Other essential qualities are good communication skills and the ability to work in a team, along with an aptitude for hard work, career motivation and the determination to succeed.
Numeracy is also a vital skill, but many employers demand no more than a good pass at GSCE maths and high standards in the numeracy tests which usually form part of any selection process.
Current vacancies in the accountancy sector include positions as book keepers, finance assistants, credit controllers, legal cashiers, reconciliation officers and wages clerks.
