Jobs, Careers and Occupations

Accountants

Accountants Nature of Work

Accountants plan, organize and administer accounting systems for individuals and establishments. Accountants are broadening the services they offer to include budget analysis, financial and investment planning, information technology consulting and limited legal services.

Accountants Duties and Tasks

Accountants may perform the following tasks:

• assist in the formulation of budgetary and accounting policies
• prepare financial statements for presentation to boards of directors, management, shareholders, and statutory bodies
• conduct financial investigations, undertakes audits, prepares reports, and advises on such matters as the purchase and sale of businesses, mergers, capital financing, suspected fraud, insolvency and taxation
• examine operating costs and the income and expenditure of institutions
• provide assurance about the accuracy of information contained in financial reports and their compliance with statutory requirements
• provide financial and taxation advice on business structures, plans and operations
• liaise with bankers and brokers to establish funds management arrangements
• may advise on the selection and application of computer-based accounting systems
• may appraise cash flow and financial risk of capital investment projects

Accountants Example Titles

• Accountant
• Certified General Accountant
• Chartered Accountant
• Chief Accountant
• Income Tax Expert
• Industrial Accountant
• Management Accountant

Accountants Work Conditions

Accountants may work on their own or with other accountants. Accountants work indoors in offices. Accountants in private practice have a high level of public contact. Some positions involve travel, which is often interstate or overseas. Hours are usually regular although may be long when working to deadlines. Tax specialists often work long hours during the tax season.

Accountants Personal Requirements

• strong mathematical ability
• good communication skills
• good presentation skills
• able to build rapport with clients
• able to analyze and solve problems
• good organizational skills
• discretion when dealing with confidential information
• professional and ethical

Accountants Related Jobs

• Accounts Clerk
• Actuary
• Auditor
• Company Secretary
• Economist
• Financial Planner
• Management Consultant
• Marketing Manager

Accounting Related Industries

• Banking
• Finance
• Consulting
• Real Estate