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CAREER CONNECT PREPARES YOU
Industry Insights Discover the different industries you can join in the job market and explore the various opportunities within.
Accountancy and Financial Management
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ith accountancy and financial management qualifications, one can find work opportunities in a range of organisations, varying from the “Big Four” to smaller accountancy firms, as well as in corporations and the public sector. Being in the accountancy industry also gives you a good perspective of how businesses and organisations are operated, opening doors to start your own company in the future. In recent years, businesses have started to use technology such as cloud accounting software and applications to increase efficiency for accounting and financial management. Accounting professionals are encouraged to upskilll constantly, picking up data analysis and mastering digital accounting. Accounting firms typically offer a diversity of services such as consulting, assurance, risk assessment, corporate recovery, tax and forensic accounting, aside from the customary accounting and auditing services. Due to the range of services they offer, employers are constantly on the lookout for candidates with good analytical skills, attention to detail and an ability to convey financial data clearly. Graduate accountants often join firms as trainees and will be required to take professional qualifications to enhance themselves. It is mandatory to go through the Singapore Qualification Programme (Singapore QP) in order to practise as a chartered accountant here.
• Auditing • Financial consulting • Risk assessment • Tax consulting
Skills required • Numerical skills • Commercial awareness • Strategic planning skills • Analytical skills • Decision-making skills • Good communication skills
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pecialising in different areas of banking and finance (e.g. asset management, hedge funds, private banking and equity, risk management, venture capital and corporate restructuring), employers such as retail banks and investment firms offer a diverse range of roles to graduate hires. Competition is tough in the banking and finance sector in Singapore, as the city-state is a regional and global hub for investment and finance. Improve your opportunities of securing a job in this field by seeking out internships during your university days to gain relevant work experience and build your knowledge and networks. Take note that employers appreciate candidates who excel in problem-solving and have excellent organisational and team management skills. You should also make it a point to read financial business news regularly to update yourself on any changes in the industry. While employers prefer numerical and business degrees, it is not a necessary requirement.
Job areas include • Business/Commercial banking • Consumer/Personal banking • Corporate finance • Foreign exchange trading • Investment banking • Marketing and communication
Job areas include • Assurance management
Banking and Finance
• Operations and technology
Job hunting tips Get licensed, stay on top of your game in terms of accounting skills and network extensively in this professional circle.
• Private banking • Private equity • Risk management • Treasury • Wealth management
Skills required • Numerical and analysis skills • Problem-solving ability
Job hunting tips Score an internship and ace it! Networking is crucial in banking and investment. Research potential employers and send in your applications early.
• Resilience • Able to work under pressure • Excellent communication skills • Strong understanding of financial markets • Decision-making skills
SIM CAREER GUIDE 2021
www.sim.edu.sg
