To the outsider, accountancy roles are perhaps the same at all levels and in all industry sectors, but in truth jobs in this field can vary greatly from level to level and from employer to employer. A typical day in accountancy can include updating important financial records, analysing data, forecasting trends, compiling reports, creating budgets and so much more.

This is a role that often attracts those with a keen eye for problem-solving, talented, dedicated individuals who can find a sense of order in data that others may struggle to comprehend. Accountants, whether they are employed directly by an accountancy firm or they work in the finance department of a major global powerhouse, are in demand. This can be an extremely rewarding role for those who succeed, thanks to attractive salaries and a chance to become an important member of a highly-rated finance team.

The accounting skills you need to thrive

If you’re looking to maintain a successful career path in this field, you’ll need at least some of the following skills:

• A keen eye for detail
• A methodical approach
• Critical thinking
• The ability to communicate well
• Efficient time management
• An understanding of relevant legislation
• A strong sense of confidentiality

…and much more. It would be trite to say you will need to have excellent spreadsheet skills and financial planning acumen, but of course that’s exactly what you will need at the very minimum!

There are several qualifications that will help you find the ideal job, including bachelor or masters level degrees in tax, finance or accounting. Industry-specific qualifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) accreditation will go a long way, and of course if you have experience already in this field your options will be wider.

There’s a strong demand for accounting in Singapore

Given the fact that both personal and corporate finance have become increasingly important in recent times, not to mention more complex, it’s safe to assume that skilled, talented accountants will remain in high demand by businesses. For qualified, experienced professionals, the job market remains a tempting and intriguing one.

While accountancy serves as a useful umbrella term in this sector, it’s worth noting there are a number of disparate roles that it covers. They include Tax accountants, payroll supervisors, credit controllers, book-keepers, accounts assistants, business analysts and both management and corporate accountants. Those in senior management will often have knowledge of all these roles, but for others at operational level their overall experience may be more sector-specific.

Top accounting jobs can attract applicants from all over the world, and this is one of the most impressive aspects of working in accountancy. If you have the skills, the experience and the drive, they can take you on a rewarding path to just about anywhere.

Take your career to Singapore

Here in Singapore, there’s a proliferation of blue-chip corporations, including the Big Four, that are always looking to add to their talent pool. They include major players in banking, investments, telecommunications, property, manufacturing and many more. Needless to say, they all need accountancy professionals to build and maintain their success.

If you’re looking to take the next step on your accounting career path, Michael Page can turn that dream into a reality. To start the ball rolling, just forward your CV to us and take a few moments to set up a job alert. That all-important new accounting role could be just around the corner!