If you work in the finance or accounting space, you know all too well how emphasized career growth is in this field of work. But — as broken as the record may be — climbing the proverbial ladder and reaching senior positions can unlock a number of benefits, including better job security and an increase in earning potential. In accounting, following the traditional career progression path from junior accountant to senior accountant is a well-trodden route; and it’s not without reason. Let’s dive into why pursuing a senior accountant role should be your next big step.
Perhaps the most obvious benefit of moving into senior accounting roles is the increase in responsibility and accountability. Senior accountants typically oversee teams of junior accountants and undertake more complex accounting responsibilities. As such, their decision-making skills are honed over time, making them valuable assets to any accounting team. Being a senior accountant also means more rigorous work and facing greater scrutiny, but with these comes greater satisfaction for a job well done.
A senior accountant role can unlock a world of diverse experiences, depending on the industry, size and nature of the organization you work for. For example, you could work for a large corporation and then move on to a nonprofit charity organization. Having senior experience broadens your skillset to adapt to different environments. You’ll gain more insights into how different industries work, be better able to adapt to sophisticated accounting systems and build diverse networks.
Let’s talk about earning potential. Logistically, a more senior role comes with a higher salary, which makes a considerable impact given the demanding nature of the accounting profession. Senior accountants can more easily command higher wages given the high value they provide to a team. Generally speaking, senior accountants can expect a salary anywhere from $64,000 to $107,000. Ultimately, the pursuit of senior accounting roles is not without financial reward.
Frequently Asked Questions
The qualifications and requirements for becoming a senior accountant vary based on the employer and the specific role. Typically, a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or a related field is required. Additionally, you’ll likely need to obtain a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification to increase your chances of landing a senior accountant role.
If you’re in the process of searching for open senior accountant roles, check out our jobs for our newest accounting and finance opportunities near you.
