The decisions you make now will have a significant impact on your future career as an accountant. Career options for Newly Qualified Accountants in Northern Ireland are diverse and plentiful. You will have followed the academic path of A levels, University and Practice to reach this point and by definition are part of the top 5% of your age group for academic achievement. Up until now, your career goals will have been clear, with many of your peers following the same path. Now, as the paths start to diverge you will all be taking completely separate routes, your next step could take you in any direction. You will need to trust your judgement and plan carefully to land yourself a promising career.

IF YOU ARE A NEWLY QUALIFIED CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT THERE ARE 2 QUESTIONS YOU NEED TO ASK YOURSELF: 

1. SHOULD I STAY?

Your first decision will be whether or not to leave Practice. The majority in your position will choose to move on, however for some, staying is the right decision. If you work for a small practice you may well consider a move to the Big 4 or vice versa. Practice offers candidates a structured career path and clear progression opportunities as well as exposure to working with a diverse client base.

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2. SHOULD I GO?

So you have decided to move on, your next decision will be to consider what type of role and commercial business is the right fit for you as industry is very diverse in terms of opportunities and environment. This is the time to decide what type of work you would like to do , this can range from opportunities in financial accounting or management/commercial accounting.

• Financial Accounting & Control - Many will tell you the best option is to take on a technical accounting role,  it utilises the skills of your current role, and can often be an easier transition into a commercial environment.

• Management Accounting – Can offer candidates an insight into the day to day commercial workings of an organisation, exposure to senior stakeholders and the ability to contribute to the overall business and impact the bottom line.

Still considering what is the best career path for a newly qualified accountant? Speak with one of our experts. It’s in our best interest to get the right job for you, and so we work concisely to get you a job that aligns with your strengths and career goals.

Call us on 028 9033 0250 to have a chat with our expert finance recruitment team, or click hereto browse for jobs on our website. You can also find us on Linkedin, Facebook and Twitter.

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