Job Description and Responsibilities
An accounting programme can lead towards Financial Management and Accounting Supervisor positions, as well as a variety of analyst and consultant positions within the industry. Accountants are usually involved with a variety of projects and assignments including:
• Working with a team of financial managers, representatives, and certified accountants
• Keeping records accurate and reporting information to necessary departments
• Taking part in auditing, tax, and consulting activities
• Advising on tax and treasury issues
• Preparing financial management reports, including financial planning and forecasting
• Producing reports and recommendations following internal audits or public sector 'value for money' audits
• Preparing financial statements, including monthly and annual accounts
• Preparing non-cash journal
• Reviewing financial statements
• Correcting and reporting tax information
• Interpreting and reviewing financial systems and processes
• Evaluating costs and performance for specific departments
• Verifying the accuracy of reports
• Analysing and devising budgets
• Making recommendations for reaching financial goals
• Performing audits and other quality control measures as directed by the organisation
Accounting careers can branch out into various departments and sectors within the industry. These are:
• Public
• Management
• Internal auditing
Completing the Diploma and Advanced level offer flexibility and many options to grow within a particular field. Almost 10% of accountants become self employed and manage their own firm or business.
Accounting Career Options
With an accounting programme, you can work as a:
• Public Accountant
• Bookkeeper
• Financial Accountant Assistant
• Management Accountant
• Industrial Accountant
• Corporate Accountant
• Personal Financial Advisor
• Auditor
• Management analysts
• Financial analysts
• General Ledger Accountant
• Legal Auditor
• Accounting Services Manager
• Accounting Technician
Computers are making basic accounting classes almost nonexistent, and the general tasks for accountants are shifting into a new direction with different standards, formats, and guidelines. Accounting packages are designed to manage much of the manual work once needed for data management, reporting, and recordkeeping. Hence candidates who pursue a Diploma in Computerised Accounting have a significant advantage.
Many accountants choose to pursue a role as a personal financial advisor, as this involves making use of accounting and tax knowledge, developing budgets, and managing assets for one or more clients.