Introduction to the Career
A Corporate Financial Analyst is an expert in finance, economics, and accounting. The role entails analyzing financial data, assessing the company’s financial position, and providing recommendations to senior executives regarding investments, business expansion or cut costs. To succeed in this career, you will need to have a strong quantitative, analytical and problem-solving skills.
Career Values, Traits, and Skills
To pursue a career as a Corporate Financial Analyst, you must embrace the following career values, traits, and skills:
Career Values
- Analyzing financial data
- Creating business financial projections
- Staying up-to-date with financial markets and trends
- Working independently and collaboratively on projects
Career Traits
- Detail-oriented
- Strong communication skills
- Mathematically inclined
- Excellent organizational skills
- Team player
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
Career Skills
- Analytical skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication
- Strong financial reporting and analysis
- Proficient in math and statistics, including statistical software and Excel
- Financial modeling and forecasting
Career Path
To become a Corporate Financial Analyst, you will be required to have an undergraduate degree, preferably in finance, accounting, economics, mathematics, or a related field. Completing an MBA would also open more opportunities for you.
After acquiring academic qualifications, you will need to gain experience working in the finance department, either as a junior analyst or financial intern before working your way up to a senior financial analyst or corporate finance manager.
Salary Range
As with many finance-related professions, the salary range for a Corporate Financial Analyst is above-average, even for entry-level jobs. According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for a Corporate Financial Analyst is $68,902.
Tips for Success
To excel as a Corporate Financial Analyst, here are some tips:
Keep improving your Knowledge: It is important to keep up to date with the market trends, financial analysis tools to improve your knowledge continually.
Sharp your analytical and problem-solving skills: Great financial analysts are logical and analytical in their approach, use data to guide decision-making, and solve organizational problems.
Communication Skills: You need to hone your communication abilities to establish credibility with colleagues and clients alike.
Network: Establishing a network of contacts within the finance industry provides you with both personal and professional benefits, opportunities and support.
References
- Glassdoor Corporate Financial Analyst Salaries
- Robert Half International Financial Analyst Career Path
- Investopedia Corporate Financial Analyst Job Description
