Accounting and finance is a lucrative field with a wide variety of career paths and options. If you’re looking to get ahead in your career, the following are some of the best certifications to land top accounting and finance jobs.
“Certifications not only add credibility but they give you expertise so you can collaborate and operate successfully in Agile groups,” says Sharon Tsao, CMO of Contemporary Staffing Solutions.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
The CPA is the most widely-known and popular accounting certification in the industry. CPAs work for both public and private organizations or as outside consultants, handling a wide range of accounting responsibilities that can include recordkeeping, developing financial plans, tax preparation, budgeting, mergers and acquisitions and more. CPAs can be found in small firms, government agencies and Fortune 100 global corporations.
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), the organization that governs CMA certifications, says that the difference between CMA pros and other accounting and finance pros is that CMAs understand the “why” behind the numbers. According to the IMA, the median income for CMAs is over 25% higher than those without the certification.
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
Chartered Financial Analysts are typically involved in portfolio management, handling large sums of money for investment firms. They can also be found in roles like research analysts, chief legal executives, consultants and risk managers. All of these roles are high-paying and prestigious, however, certification requires a minimum of 250 hours per year over three years and nearly $1,000 in testing fees.
Enrolled Agent (EA)
The Enrolled Agent certification for tax professionals is governed by the IRS itself. EA designation demonstrates extensive knowledge of the tax code, and these pros are eligible to represent taxpayers for IRS audits, collections and appeals. Enrolled Agents are becoming more in-demand as the tax code continues to increase in complexity. EAs are qualified to prepare extremely complex returns, which are common among high-paying clients like corporations and wealthy individuals.
Other Beneficial Accounting and Finance Certifications
These aren’t the only certifications that can advance your accounting and finance career. There are lots of in-demand certifications like:
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
- Financial Risk Manager (CRM)
- Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)
- Certified Bookkeeper (CB)
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
- Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA)
If you want to advance your career and earn more, find certifications in your areas of interest and pursue them. Many employers will offer reimbursement for successfully passing certification exams.
Are You Looking For Accounting and Finance Jobs?
If you are a talented professional seeking accounting and finance career opportunities we invite you to contact the expert recruiters at Contemporary Staffing Solutions today. We can help you find your ideal position and help you achieve your goals.
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Contemporary Staffing connects job seekers to hiring managers nationally in the following professions: Accounting & Finance, Call Center & Office, Human Resources, IT, Salesforce, and Sales & Marketing.