Finance is an element that can be found in many different careers. It’s especially important in business, however. As businesses and organizations get larger and better at what they do, they need people who are dedicated entirely to the company’s finances. Finance is a quick-paced career, and it requires adaptable people who can keep things well organized. In business finance, there are plenty of opportunities to bring your experience to the table. The more experienced you are, the more needs you can meet. It can be a demanding career, but it’s not without rewards. A career in business finance could be just the right fit for you.
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You’ll need these core skills for a career in business finance:
Problem solving, applying analytic and critical thinking, and personal insight
Computer fluency, particularly spreadsheets and large-scale data management tools
Adaptability and a zest for changing environments
Also, you will be in high demand if you have these qualities:
Understand the models, techniques, and derivatives used to manage risk
Speak a second language
Communicate well and have strong people skills
What Is a Business Finance Career?
Business finance professionals are responsible for an organization’s financial planning and strategy, but you can also apply your business finance knowledge to private parties, such as personal financial planning and advice. Positions range from accounting to analysis. See the chart below for some details on specific positions. A career in business finance can be very rewarding. You have an integral role in running a business and helping it grow, as well as keeping it on track in the present. Business finance jobs offer lucrative starting salaries that are among the highest compared to other industries.
What Business Finance Professionals Do
Many careers fall under the umbrella of business finance. What they have in common is money—business finance professionals will advise on spending and investing, and work to manage transactions. They can be auditors for private companies or major businesses, as well as the government. Many positions in private banks and credit unions are open to business finance professionals, such as higher-level administration positions or cashier and teller positions. Accountants at any level and in any environment will need a background in business finance. Take a look at some further information on specific positions.
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Job Profiles
Occupation
Summary
Education
2012 Median Pay
Accountant
manage a company’s financial transactions, prepare financial records, and ensure accuracy and adherence with government regulations
Entry-level: bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Mid- to senior-level: master’s degree in accounting may be expected
$63,550
Budget Analysts
monitor spending and provide ongoing budget reviews, analysis, and recommendations.
Bachelor’s or master’s degree, typically in accounting, finance, management, or business administration
$69,280
Financial Analysts
evaluate the value of organizations and recommend how businesses and individuals spend their money
Bachelor’s degree is necessary, however a master’s degree should provide better opportunities.Relevant programs of study include a bachelor of science in business administration, master of business administration, and master of science in finance.
$76,950
Financial Managers
in charge of the financial health of an organization, from income and costs to investments and acquisitions
Bachelor’s degree is necessary, however a master’s degree may be required depending on the specific role and size of the organization.Degree programs to consider include a bachelor of science in business administration, master of business administration, and master of science in finance
$109,740
Personal Financial Advisors
provide guidance on asset allocation and financial planning to individuals and small business owners
Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or similar
$67,520
Project Managers
keep resources and schedules on track. Their goal is to deliver projects on time and under budget
bachelor’s degree; a program of study in finance can be especially beneficial. Depending on responsibilities, a graduate degree may also be required
$105,000
[A business degree is incredibly versatile. Read more: Revenge of the MBA Degree.]
Why Consider a Career in Business Finance?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be approximately 3.8 million job openings in business finance through 2022. Employment opportunities for financial advisors and financial analysts are especially promising. They’re projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations, but competition for these high-paying jobs will be steep. Keep yourself educated on the current business and market trends with basic or advanced business degrees and MOOCs and you’ll be in high demand.
Occupation
Number of Jobs in 2012
% Change Projected by 2022
Net Change Projected by 2022
Accountants
1,275,400
+13% (as faster as average)
166,700
Budget Analysts
61,700
+6% (slower than average)
3,800
Financial Analysts
253,000
+16% (faster than average)
39,300
Financial Managers
532,100
+9% (as faster as average)
47,100
Personal Financial Advisors
223,400
+27% (much faster than average)
60,300
Sources: US Department of Labor, Project Management Institute
*Employment growth statistics are not available for project managers.