PATH TO A FINANCE CAREER
Dear Jarus,
First, I have to say that having gone through a lot of your posts, the work you are doing here is tremendous and can’t be overstated.
I have a good degree in Industrial Microbiology. Getting an entry level job hasn’t been without friction so far, although I finished serving this March. I actually am more inclined to the brewery firms, FMCG and Industry basically.
Fortunately, I have nursed the ambition of switching careers to the Finance sector. Although ultimately to end up in the industry earlier mentioned.
Crossroad 1: I have an offer from a “Big 4” and a new generation bank ( Graduate Trainee.) What is your take on the path most likely to give me the best leverage for a future Industry exit? And how long do I stay? This doesn’t mean I am not thrilled by these companies…it’s just to possibly fulfill the dream of the industry work.
Crossroad 2: At the big 4, it’s audit division I’m being offered. What departments are more favourable to experienced industry hires in finance? And given the option of ICAN and ACCA, I prefer ACCA, what’s your take on it? Do you think I can self-study for it in a big 4 work? What additional qualifications can I pursue?
Crossroad 3: Switching careers at this stage, please give me pointers to what will give me a comparative advantage to be successful out there especially if I do exit into industry.
Uche
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Dear Uche,
One, I think “Big 4” is the better option, principally because they offer the best training you can ask for as a young trainee, and equally importantly, they are less volatile to adverse changes in public policies than banks. In other words, they offer better job security. Also, except you’re in highly specialized units, bank jobs can be monotonous and boring. I think Big 4 firms (PwC, KPMG, Deloitte, EY) offer better exposure and have better international brand that will be useful when you decide to move on.
Two, there is nothing wrong with audit unit. But considering you plan to move to Finance later, corporate advisory is ok too, and may actually be better. Both offer you opportunity to know the workings of different companies and build your own personal network which will be useful in moving on when you decide to. I have seen many companies recruit audit staff that audited them in the past. ACCA is fine. And yes, you can self-study. It may be a little tight combining work with study, but the good thing is, what you do will relate to what to read and that makes assimilation easier. Most of these professional services firms also have programmes to help employees writing professional exams.
ACCA alone is ok for start.
Three, I don’t understand your third “crossroad” well, but what I had in the first paragraph here explained the benefits of training with a Big 4 before moving to industry. Your knowledge, and your versatility are key things that will come handy in breaking into finance. You have to be good. If you’re good, you may not have issues. Most of the successful guys I have come across in this field are just GOOD. No two ways about it.
I wish you all the best.
Jarus
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