Accountancy Careers in Jersey's Finance Indsutry

What is accountancy?

Collecting and recording financial information about a business, then using that information to support management and other stakeholders as they make decisions about the business.

Accountants then prepare and present financial statements, offering advice and consultancy along the way.

Accountants can function as business strategists, working closely with staff and managers throughout their day-to day-work to set strategic and organisational goals.

Accountancy in financial services

Chartered accountants work in many different settings: ranging from a sole practitioner of a firm through to a small or large accountancy practice or a chief executive of a multinational company.

In general, the main areas of employment in accountancy in Jersey include:

Audit & assurance
Tax advisory
Finance and administration
Corporate and business accounting
Forensic and Dispute Consulting (where accountants can be called upon to provide expert witness services in court proceedings, carry out accounting or fraud investigations and the liquidation of companies that have gone bankrupt)
Regulatory consulting services

An accountancy qualification equips people with general finance knowledge, meaning that your skills are easily transferable from role to role, company to company and country to country.

What skills do you need?

Good communication skills
Ability to think analytically and solve problems
Ability to analyse complex data sets
Ability to work in a team, both in leadership and collaborative roles
Ability to approach issues from multiple perspectives
Acting ethically and legally
Project management skills
Logical decision making and strategic and creative thinking abilities
Computational and technology skills

Qualifications to consider

Relevant university degree
Relevant work experience
Professional accreditations from organisations such as the Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAEW, ICAS), the Association of Chartered and Certified Accountants (ACCA), Institute of Financial Accountants (IFA) and Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)

Career Opportunities

Some career opportunities may include but are not limited to:

Audit Professional
Tax Consultant
Business Analyst
Management Accountant
Financial Accountant
Fund Administrator/Manager

Testimonials

George Glithero Audit Assistant, KPMG

"Starting my finance career with the audit team at KPMG has provided me with a diverse range of opportunities. I’ve gained exposure to several different sectors within Financial Services such as private equity and real estate. I’ve also developed a greater commercial awareness to business performance through being involved in auditing valuations of a Fund’s underlying portfolio entities. My role has enabled me to develop a variety of different skills including managing teams, communicating with multiple stakeholders and project management. My role has also allowed me to develop an analytical and questioning mindset and I’ve taken on more responsibility in the firm every year. There are also opportunities to travel and second internationally, and I’ve been involved in some unique experiences such as stock counts of precious metals.”

Leandro Rodrigues Assistant Accountant, Langham Hall

“I enjoy my job in accountancy as it is challenging and rewarding. I work on a diverse range of international structures adopting various accounting policies, delivering at a high level of service. My role requires many skills but accuracy, attention to detail and time management are key. I also have the opportunity to develop my leadership and mentoring skills by sharing my knowledge and experience with new members of the team.”

Courtney McCann Senior, Assurance | EMEIA Financial Services, EY

"In audit no day is ever the same. It’s a dynamic and innovative profession, evolving to meet the needs of clients and stakeholders. I’m grateful to be working in this ever-moving environment, as there is much to be motivated and inspired by. My job involves working in diverse teams and collaborating with a strong network through the varied clients we work with. I love that my job involves lots of social interaction, particularly traveling to clients’ offices to perform audits. At EY, you’re empowered to coach others early on in your career. It’s meant I’ve developed leadership skills that I might not have had the chance to do so elsewhere. In audit you’re always learning. Our office is filled with mentors; each with different areas of expertise and experience. I’m thankful for the continued support of my employer and colleagues, which assisted me in finishing my accounting qualification.