Jobs in Financial Services
The financial services industry offers a wide range of job opportunities and career paths for potential candidates. Deciding which line of work is best for you depends greatly on your interests and qualifications, and an understanding of what these jobs entail. In this article we take on overview of a number of roles in the financial services industry with the aim of aiding your career or training decision.
What is an Actuary?
The job if an actuary is to gather and analyse statistics, using them to evaluate financial risk accordingly. To be an actuary requires great attention to detail, a head for numbers, and the ability to communicate clearly. Actuaries will acquire a very thorough understanding of financial systems, using them to solve problems and advise on risk. An actuarial career may take you to a variety of industries, and can be very rewarding both personally and financially.
What Is a Financial Advisor?
A financial advisor may be employed by different types of companies. Those such as banks are called ‘tied advisors’, meaning they can only advise on products offered by that institution. ‘Multi-tied advisors’ can offer products from a small range of providers. Independent financial advisors have access to all or most of the products available on the market. Mortgage advisors work in the same way. As a financial advisor you will offer clients advice on the best way to look after their money such as when they come to make decisions on mortgages, pensions, investments and savings.
What is an Investment Manager?
Investment managers (otherwise known as fund managers) offer professional management services of various types of investment such as stocks, shares and bonds. They will make decisions which will often then have to be passed by the client relating to what actions should be taken to get the best return and to best protect the investments in their care. To be a find manager you will need an in depth knowledge of the various areas of finance these assets belong to, good analytical and communications skills. You will receive information from a number of departments which you must work through to decide the best course of action for your client.
What is a Tax Inspector?
As a tax inspector you will be required to ensure companies and individuals pay the right amount of tax for their earnings. You will investigate those suspected of trying to evade their tax responsibilities, as well as advise businesses and individuals on tax related subjects. You will need an analytical mind, good numerical and communication skills, and possibly a good degree of patience.
These are just a small number of career opportunities available in the financial services industry, there are literally hundreds of other positions available in this interesting field, including bankers, chartered accountants investment analysts, and many more.
