Financial Managers

HOW TO GET THERE

Typical pathway

A common path is to finish high school courses in math, business, and computer studies, then move into a college or university program in accounting, business administration, or business management. Some students begin with a diploma and later continue their studies, while others earn a degree first. Early experience in accounting, auditing, bookkeeping, financial analysis, or office administration can help build the skills needed. Employers may look for experience with budgets, reports, and financial systems, and requirements can vary by employer, province, or the size and type of organization.

THE WORK

What you may do

Legacy duties

• Plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate the operation of an accounting, audit or other financial department
• Develop and implement the financial policies, systems and procedures of an establishment
• Prepare or co-ordinate the preparation of financial statements, summaries, and other cost-benefit analyses and financial management reports
• Co-ordinate the financial planning and budget process, and analyze and correct estimates
• Supervise the development and implementation of financial simulation models
• Evaluate financial reporting systems, accounting procedures and investment activities and make recommendations for changes to procedures, operating systems, budgets and other financial control functions to senior managers and other department or regional managers
• Recruit, organize, train and manage staff
• Act as liaison between the organization and its shareholders, the investing public and external financial analysts
• Establish profitability standards for investment activities and handle mergers and/or acquisitions
• Notify and report to senior management concerning any trends that are critical to the organization's financial performance.

SKILLS TO BUILD

Skills used in this Career