Management accountants are responsible for managing a company's finances. They look after a company's accounts. They also find ways of improving profitability and growth. So if you are interested in finance and business, this could be just what you're looking for. To do this job you will need to have good Math and Computer skills. You'll need accuracy and attention to detail. You'll also need good communication skills. To start working you will have to finish training with one of the professional bodies. Most management accountants choose to do with the Chatered Institute of Management Accountants.
As a management accountant you would work for one company as an in-house (internal) accountant. This role is different from a private practice accountant, who provides accountancy services for external clients.
Your work could include:
You would normally work standard office hours, Monday to Friday. You may need to work overtime during busy periods, such as at the end of the financial year. Part-time work may often be available.
Trainee and part-qualified accountants could earn between £18,000 and £30,000 a year, depending on which stage of training they have reached.
Qualified management accountants usually earn between £30,000 and £50,000 a year.
Finance managers and directors could earn between £50,000 and £100,000 a year, depending on the size of the company
Salaries also depend on location, and may be higher in London and the South East.
To become an accountant, you must complete training with one of the professional accountancy bodies. Although each professional body includes some company finanical management in their training, most management accountants choose to qualify with the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA).
CIMA training involves two stages:
Your entry point will depend on your previous qualifications and experience.
To become a fully-qualified Chartered Management Accountant (ACMA), you must pass the CIMA Professional Qualification and complete at least three years' relevant work experience.
To achieve the CIMA Professional Qualification you will need to complete:
To become a management accountant, you will need to have: