Overview
A career in finance offers an exciting, fast-paced environment with opportunities across corporate, public, and investment sectors. Finance professionals play a vital role in managing risk, optimising financial performance, and shaping business strategy. Whether working in financial analysis, risk management, corporate finance, or financial planning, graduates in this field help organisations make data-driven decisions that drive growth.
Key areas in finance include:
- Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) – Budgeting, forecasting, and financial strategy.
- Risk Management – Identifying and mitigating financial risks.
- Treasury & Corporate Finance – Managing company liquidity, investments, and capital structure.
- Fintech & Financial Innovation – Leveraging technology in banking and investment services.
- Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) – Evaluating business acquisitions and restructuring opportunities.
Finance careers attract graduates from economics, business, mathematics, and management, but the industry is also open to those from other academic backgrounds due to its diverse range of roles.
Average Finance Graduate Salary
Finance Graduate Career Path
Finance offers multiple career paths depending on your skills, interests, and specialisations. Some common roles include:
- Financial Analyst – Analysing company performance, forecasting market trends, and advising on financial decisions.
- Risk Analyst – Assessing credit, market, and operational risks to ensure financial stability.
- Corporate Finance Associate – Managing cash flow, capital investments, and financial planning within businesses.
- Wealth Management & Financial Planning – Helping individuals and businesses with investment strategies, retirement planning, and asset management.
- Fintech & Digital Finance Specialist – Working with data analytics, blockchain, and AI-driven financial services.
Most finance graduates begin as analysts or associates within corporate finance teams, investment firms, or consultancies before specialising in areas such as M&A, risk management, or strategic financial planning. While a degree provides a strong foundation, many finance professionals pursue additional qualifications to enhance their career prospects:
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) – Essential for investment and asset management careers.
- Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) – Beneficial for accounting and corporate finance roles.
- Financial Risk Manager (FRM) – Specialised qualification for risk management professionals.
Finance careers offer structured progression, with opportunities to advance into senior leadership positions, CFO roles, or financial consultancy.
Qualifications and Skills Needed
What proportion of candidates as a percent we place into Finance graduate careers and the typical qualities graduate employers look for.
GRB Placements for Finance by Degree
Typical Candidate Attributes
Most finance employers prefer candidates with degrees in:
- Finance, Accounting & Economics – Core financial principles and market analysis.
- Mathematics, Statistics & Data Science – Ideal for quantitative finance and risk management.
- Business & Management – Strong understanding of corporate finance and strategic decision-making.
Most graduate schemes require a 2:1 degree or higher, along with a strong aptitude for numerical and analytical thinking. Here are some skills that are valuable to develop when pursuing a career in finance:
- Numeracy & Analytical Thinking – Strong quantitative problem-solving abilities.
- Financial Modelling & Excel Proficiency – Comfort with data analysis, forecasting, and budgeting.
- Commercial Awareness – Understanding of financial markets, business strategy, and economic trends.
- Communication & Presentation Skills – Ability to interpret and explain financial data to stakeholders.
- Attention to Detail & Risk Awareness – Ensuring accuracy in financial reporting and regulatory compliance.
Application & Recruitment Process
Finance graduate roles are highly competitive, with structured recruitment processes that test candidates’ analytical, numerical, and problem-solving abilities. The typical steps include:
- Online Application & CV Screening – Employers assess academic performance, numerical ability, and financial knowledge.
- Numerical & Psychometric Testing – Candidates take online tests to evaluate problem-solving and quantitative reasoning skills.
- Competency-Based & Technical Interviews – Focus on business acumen, financial knowledge, and soft skills such as communication.
- Assessment Centres & Case Studies – Includes group exercises, presentations, and real-world financial analysis tasks.
Many large firms, including investment banks and consultancy firms, open applications up to a year in advance, so early preparation is key.
Is Finance the Right Career for You?
Finance is an excellent choice for those who thrive in a fast-paced, data-driven, and competitive environment. If you enjoy working with numbers, problem-solving, and strategic thinking, this industry offers high earning potential and strong career progression. However, it can also be high-pressure, with long hours and a need for continuous learning.
If you’re analytical, detail-oriented, and eager to make an impact in the financial world, a career in finance could be the perfect fit.
Sources for Further Information
Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy http://www.cipfa.org
Institute of Financial Services
Institute of International Finance www.iif.com
Institute of Financial Accountants www.ifa.org.uk