Finance manager
What does a finance manager do?
Finance managers are often part of the action, helping to inform the direction of the organisation by using financial analysis to advise management. Finance manager jobs often involve thinking strategically about opportunities to increase revenue while mitigating potential risks. Generating reports, managing budgets and auditing systems all come with the territory when working in finance management. You may also be responsible for developing long-term business plans, analysing market trends, or supervising accounting and payroll professionals.
Is a career as a finance manager right for me?
A career as a finance manager may be right for you if you enjoy working with numbers, analysing information and helping solve business problems. People who succeed in finance management are often naturally organised, detail-oriented and comfortable making decisions based on data. An interest in business, economics and how organisations operate can also be an advantage.
An ability to analyse and interpret information.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
A sound awareness and understanding of industry and trends.
The capacity to lead through effective decision-making, accountability, and support for others.
Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.
Effective time-management and prioritisation skills.
The ability to take initiative, demonstrate personal drive, and maintain a professional attitude.
How to become a finance manager
Generally speaking, a finance manager career requires a bachelor's degree in finance, business, commerce or a related field. Gaining practical experience in roles like a junior financial analyst or financial advisor helps develop essential skills for management, building towards a finance manager career.
Every journey to study is individual and there are several paths to reaching your finance career goals. A common path to becoming a finance manager:
- Complete a bachelor degree in finance, accounting, business or a related field.
- Develop strong skills in financial analysis, budgeting and business strategy.
- Gain experience through graduate or entry-level finance, accounting or business roles.
- Progress into senior finance positions with increasing responsibility.
- Build leadership expertise and pursue management opportunities within your industry.
How long does it take to become a finance manager?
The time it takes to follow a finance manager career can vary depending on your education and work experience. Completing a Bachelor of Business majoring in Finance at UniSQ takes three years of full-time study or the part-time equivalent. For those who already hold a relevant degree, postgraduate qualifications in finance may be completed in a shorter time frame.Following this, gaining experience in junior finance roles can take an additional five to ten years before moving into a finance manager position. Many professionals also enhance their qualifications through further studies, such as completing a Master of Business or a MBA or a professional certification, which may impact the amount of time it takes to become a finance manager.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Prepare for a finance management career with a UniSQ finance or business degree and develop the financial, analytical and leadership skills needed to drive organisational success.
Responsibilities and work settings
Managing cash flow in and out of the business.
Making decisions on investments and distributing earnings.
Creating and implementing financial and budgetary strategies, policies, and plans.
Monitoring and evaluating financial trends and organisational efficiency.
Assessing financial and business risks of projects, and ensuring debts are collected.
Reviewing finance proposals and the financial status of operational projects.
planning and preparing budgets, documents such as the annual report, and forecasting the organisation's financial position.
Setting up and running the accounting systems within the organisation.
Banks and financial institutions
Accounting, consulting and professional services firms
Government agencies, departments and councils
Manufacturing and industrial companies
Mining and resources companies
Construction and infrastructure companies
Universities and higher education providers
Finance manager FAQs
To become a finance manager, you need:
- a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field
- strong proficiency in financial analysis, budgeting, and financial reporting tools
- leadership skills and experience in managing teams within a finance environment.
Some roles may also prefer candidates with a postgraduate qualification, particularly in larger or more competitive industries.
Related careers
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