Careers

Becoming a newly qualified accountant opens the door to many opportunities. Bernie Duffy outlines what you need to keep in mind as you look for new roles You’ve worked hard, completed all your requirements and have passed your exams. You’re nearly a newly qualified accountant. Here are five things to remember if you are thinking of changing roles after becoming a Chartered Accountant. 1. Availability of roles As you can see from Chart 1 (below) of job postings on LinkedIn in 2024, the quantity of finance roles advertised ebbed and flowed throughout the year, with quieter times in December, January and April.  Assuming 2025 is similar, you should be mindful of this and consider taking a more proactive approach to your search if you want to start something new in May or June.  2. Understanding the mix of roles Titles in industry mean nothing without context and in many cases do not correlate between companies. Two companies can be looking to hire a financial accountant, but the nature of their roles can be vastly different. Newly qualified accountants’ roles generally fall into the following categories: Financial accounting: 65 percent – the balance of activity in these roles will matter. Larger companies often come with more specialised roles. Financial analysis: 15 percent – this isn't easy to get straight out of contract. Internal audit: 10 percent – this is an excellent route often overlooked. Other: 10 percent. Chart 2 (below) is a visual representation of the activity in a basic finance team, along with some of the variables that come with the context of the role. The percentage of time you will spend on either side of the line in a role below is a critical consideration. 3. Hybrid working is the norm As you can see from Chart 3 (below), three days a week in the office was by far the most common work-from-home policy for newly qualified accountants in 2024, with over 40 percent of positions at this level adhering to it.  Another interesting takeaway is the lack of fully remote opportunities at the newly qualified level. We’ve already seen a shift towards more office-based working in 2025; however, with many US multinationals calling for five days in the office, we would expect the four and five-day in-office policies to continue to increase over the coming year. 4. Rewards package Base salary is only a part of total compensation (base + package) – want to know about total compensation for newly qualified accountants? In Dublin:  The average salary for the second half (H2) 2024 was €65,083. The average bonus for H2 2024 was seven percent. The average pension for H2 2024 was five percent. The average Annual Leave Days for H2 2024 was 25 Days. Outside Dublin, you would typically apply a 10 percent reduction on base +/- 2.5 percent, depending on location.  You may hear of people getting salaries outside this, which will usually take into account factors such as travel, higher intensity of work, a niche/specific role, or no additional benefits offered as part of the package.  These are all important factors to consider when assessing the compensation package attached to a specific role. 5. The wider economy The jobs economy over the medium term is uncertain. As a result, we are seeing a lower volume of roles on the market compared to last year. There may be increased contract roles and likely a drop in permanent roles. What does this mean for you, and how can you increase your chances? If you have 10 important factors you are looking for in a new role, a compromise may be needed, and maybe a need to focus on six of these factors.  This could involve taking a role in a company of interest, on a contract basis, or in a not-so-ideal location.  This may not be a market where you can have it all, but there are still opportunities to be had. Bernie Duffy is Senior Associate of Recently Qualified Accountants, Leinster at Barden

Alisha Mullins, CASSI PRO, highlights how your student society can help you build a successful career long after you qualify Embarking on a training contract with Chartered Accountants Ireland is a pivotal milestone in your accounting journey. But your training contract is more than just a route to qualification — it’s a launchpad for your long-term career success.  To make the most of this opportunity, you need more than technical knowledge. You need commercial awareness, a strong network and the right support system. That’s where the Chartered Accountants Student Society of Ireland (CASSI) comes in. CASSI offers every trainee a place to connect, grow and thrive. By getting involved, you’ll meet a vibrant community of peers who are navigating the same challenges and milestones.  One of the standout highlights each year is the CASSI Weekend Away, which take place in October. This event provides a fun and relaxed space to build lasting connections.  Throughout the year, regional committees host a range of events designed to help you stay connected and supported. Upcoming events include the Chartered Accountants Students Society Ulster (CASSU) Park Run and Coffee Morning on 10 May in Ormeau Park at 9.30am, and the always-popular CASSU Ball on 30 May at Ten Square Hotel at 6.30pm.  Chartered Accountant Student Society Dublin is hosting a Sauna and Lunch event at Helios Dundrum on 17 May at 1pm — an ideal way to recharge and connect with fellow students in a more relaxed setting.  Looking ahead to November, the Women in Business event offers a chance to hear directly from professionals who’ve walked the same path and built meaningful and rewarding careers. Beyond events, CASSI actively supports your professional development through tailored workshops delivered in collaboration with Barden, and well-being initiatives run alongside Thrive.  These resources are designed to help you navigate the pressures of exams, heavy workloads and career planning.  When things feel overwhelming or uncertain, don’t hesitate to turn to your CASSI community — there is always someone who is ready to offer advice and support. While you’re on the job, take every chance to understand the business behind the numbers. Learn how your work supports your firm’s bottom line, seek feedback often and aim to work with a variety of clients. The more commercially aware you become, the more impact and value you’ll deliver. By combining initiative and curiosity at work with the unique opportunities CASSI provides, you’ll not only qualify, but stand out, thrive and build a career that lasts.

Navigating student life in a professional body can be challenging, but Chartered Accountants Ireland Student Societies offer invaluable connections, personal growth and career-boosting opportunities to enhance your training experience, writes Meabh Cahill Navigating life as a student of a professional body offers great development opportunities, but it can also present challenges others may not fully understand.  The Chartered Accountants Ireland Student Societies (CASSI) provide a platform for students to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar experiences.  Getting involved in these societies, whether on a regional or national level, can significantly enhance your experience during your training contract, offering numerous personal and professional benefits. Making lasting connections Joining a regional student society offers the chance to meet new people and build meaningful relationships that will benefit your professional career.  CASSI brings together students from across Ireland, allowing you to bond over shared interests and experiences. The social events, wellness activities and regular gatherings foster a supportive network and instil a strong sense of belonging, which is crucial during study leave.  Participating in these activities offers a welcome escape from the pressures of exams and deadlines, serving as a healthy distraction to help relieve stress and improve mental well-being. Personal growth Being part of a student society pushes you out of your comfort zone and helps you develop essential skills like public speaking, time management and decision-making.  Taking on responsibilities such as organising an event, cultivating a social media presence, running for leadership positions or managing budgets can boost your self-confidence and prepare you for future academic and professional challenges. Career booster Involvement in a student society enhances your CV.  Employers highly value the teamwork, leadership and event planning skills developed through student society participation. These experiences demonstrate your ability to manage responsibilities, collaborate and take initiative, qualities that are highly sought after in the job market.  By collaborating with committees such as ACA Professionals and the Chartered Accountants Ireland Members’ Board, students develop extremely valuable connections and gain interpersonal skills in an era where engagement is increasingly limited due to online learning and hybrid working.  Joining a student society will serve you greatly in your career as those involved in student societies often go on to become leaders in the accountancy profession, in both practice and industry, as well as in district societies and the Members’ Board. Student community I would encourage all students to get involved in their regional societies as well as CASSI. Joining a student society offers a broad range of benefits, from improving your social life and confidence to boosting your CV and leadership skills. It’s a great way to manage stress and make a meaningful impact on the student community in Chartered Accountants Ireland. Meabh Cahill is Chair of CASSI and Tax Associate with Grant Thornton  

For newly qualified accountants, the job market is brimming with both local and international opportunities, presenting plenty of options depending on individual goals. Simon Cogan, Consultant at Barden, and Siobhán Sexton, Business Lead with Barden, look at what to expect in 2025 Since the pandemic, career opportunities for newly qualified Irish accountants have evolved dramatically. Whether looking at international roles, local positions or adapting to new work models, 2025 promises a landscape full of potential. International opportunities In the last few years, international moves for newly qualified accountants have gained significant traction.  In 2023 and 2024, an estimated 60 percent of Irish accountants ventured abroad, gravitating towards traditional destinations like Australia, London and Canada, as well as emerging markets in the Middle East.  However, as markets saturate with similar profiles, some countries have grown increasingly competitive, requiring professionals to stand out through niche skills or additional experience, making relocation a bit less straightforward.  For those open to starting with short-term or contract roles, overseas experience remains highly valuable and, when done right, can be a great step for career growth. The local market: increasing demand for talent Ireland’s accountancy market is strong, with plenty of opportunities across various industries. Salaries have risen, particularly in Dublin, Cork and Galway, where companies are competing for talent. There are also long-term prospects locally in growing fields like renewable energy, technology and FMCG. Networking remains invaluable for jobseekers. Partnering with a specialised talent advisor can open doors to roles that aren’t publicly advertised. Taking a proactive approach – whether through LinkedIn or local networking events – can make a real difference in landing the right role. Future skills in demand With the growing focus on digitalisation and sustainability, skills in data analytics, ESG, sustainability reporting and regulatory compliance can set accountants apart and this shift is broadening career paths for early-career accountants.  As companies prioritise sustainable business models, these roles are gaining traction, creating opportunities for those interested in environmental finance. Familiarity with financial software like advanced Excel, SAP or Power BI is also a big plus. Interpersonal skills, such as communication and adaptability, are more valued than ever. The ability to navigate various interpersonal relationships, collaborate effectively, and adjust to changing priorities or business environments makes a lasting impression and provides a solid base for long-term success in the field. Remote and hybrid work: adapting to a new work culture While remote work became the norm in 2020 and 2021, companies are gradually adjusting their policies as they navigate post-pandemic dynamics.  Hybrid work models are here to stay, with most organisations offering two days of remote work per week. However, there is a noticeable shift towards in-office work as businesses emphasise collaboration and mentorship, especially for those early in their careers. For newly qualified accountants, working onsite offers distinct advantages, particularly in terms of direct mentorship and hands-on experience.  Many professionals who trained during 2020/2021/2022 missed out on face-to-face learning from senior colleagues, which remains a crucial element for skill development.  In 2025, expect a blend of flexible work arrangements, albeit with a stronger in-office presence required, especially in client-facing roles or those that profit from regular team interaction. This can only benefit early-career accountants for the long term.  The return of overseas talent  An interesting trend shaping 2025’s job market will be the return of Irish accountants who have gained international experience. Many who initially moved abroad are now returning home.  This influx of internationally experienced professionals could introduce a new level of competition in senior roles. It also enhances the talent pool, fostering a vibrant, knowledge-rich environment that ultimately benefits Irish companies. Moving from practice to industry: key considerations For newly qualified accountants deciding between staying in practice or transitioning to industry, 2025 looks set to offer a variety of paths.  Staying in a Big Four firm, for example, is ideal for those aiming to become a partner or gain exposure to different client types. Moving into industry, however, typically provides broader financial experience sooner, which may be of help long term, if industry is where someone wants to progress. The demand for specialised experience is also growing; companies seek accountants with technical knowledge in areas like IFRS and financial modelling, often preferring candidates with post-qualified industry experience for more complex roles. A time of opportunity For newly qualified accountants in 2025, the career landscape is rich with opportunity. Whether pursuing roles in Ireland or exploring global markets, accountants have plenty of choice, with new sectors emerging and traditional industries expanding.  By staying adaptable, honing both technical and soft skills, and strategically planning career moves, newly qualified accountants can position themselves for rewarding paths in the evolving financial world. With the right preparation, partnering with a specialised talent advisor and taking a proactive approach, 2025 could be an excellent time to build a fulfilling career, whether at home or abroad.

The end of your training contract is a transitional period. Niall O’Keeffe, Senior Associate at Barden, outlines some key areas to focus on as the countdown towards your new career as a qualified accountant begins  For anyone approaching the end of a training contract and thinking about switching roles, there are a few things you should start to consider in these final weeks and months.  1. The CV The CV is an important document that can take you from aspiring applicant to sitting in front of the hiring manager. However, a weak CV can act as a blocker to this, so it is of the utmost importance to get it right. When creating a CV, people often just add a section to the top of their old CV from college. You’re a qualified professional now and your CV should reflect this. We usually find that it is better to start fresh rather than copy and paste some content on top of your old CV.  Your CV should be unique, detailed and specific to you. Avoid anything too generic.  For example, if you trained in audit and are looking for a financial accounting role in industry, avoid bullet points that are too audit-focused (“I was involved in audit planning, substantive procedures, controls testing, dealing with stakeholders, training my juniors….”). Instead, keep it specific and detailed. (“During this engagement, I was audit senior for a team of five and was responsible for testing the following technical areas: Revenue in line with IFRS 15, PPE, Deferred Liabilities etc.”) If you have trained in practice, we also recommend breaking your experience up by engagement. Pick three to five of your most prominent clients/projects and have four to five bullet points specific to that engagement.  If you have trained in industry, consider breaking your experience up by the various rotations or areas you got exposure to – financial reporting, tax, FP&A etc. This gives your CV a clean structure and makes it easier to digest.  2. Networking  Never underestimate the power of your network. A lot of people secure roles through the people they know, rather than agencies or LinkedIn.  But what exactly is networking and how can newly qualified accountants develop this skillset? Networking is defined, broadly speaking, as “the process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts”. A well-connected professional network can greatly benefit your career growth and aid in advancement. Networking involves forming relationships with colleagues, managers and industry peers. Your network isn’t just about long-term relationships with friends and colleagues; it also includes more distant connections with business leaders and casual acquaintances, such as those met through clients. Even though these connections might not be as close, they can be extremely valuable, often offering information or links that can broaden your reach and learning opportunities.  Anyone whom you have built up even a slight rapport with, make sure to be proactive and add them on LinkedIn – whether that person is the office intern or the Finance Director of your main audit client.  As you approach the end of your training contract, make a conscious effort to build genuine connections in every interaction you have with colleagues and clients, so that you can lean into this network when looking for your next role. 3. LinkedIn  There’s no getting away from it. If you haven’t already, it’s time to embrace, build and promote your online presence, predominantly through LinkedIn.  As a newly qualified accountant, your LinkedIn profile is your online personal brand and should be thought of as a tool to catch the eye of in-house talent acquisition teams, agency recruiters and hiring managers alike. Here are a few tips to get started. Quick impression Recruiters scan LinkedIn profiles in 30 seconds. Use your summary title (the title under your name) and profile summary to fully communicate your skillset.  For example, instead of placing "Tax Senior" in your title, write “Tax Senior, Commerce & Industry | Chartered Accountant FAE” – the more keywords, the better. You have 120 characters so use them!  Complete and accurate information  Update all academic and career information to reflect your current qualifications and stage in practice. If you don’t show you’ve passed your FAEs, a recruiter might think you’re not qualified yet.  Ensure employment dates are correct and match your CV, to avoid any discrepancies. Your LinkedIn profile should mirror your CV. Public profile and personal touch Don’t be afraid to promote yourself – but be personal – think of your LinkedIn summary as the landing page of a website: you need to give people a reason to stay and read on.  Be mindful of what you share on LinkedIn. Avoid sensitive details like client names.  Use LinkedIn Now that you are set up, don’t be afraid to use LinkedIn!  Connect with colleagues and clients, and join groups such as professional accounting organisations, your university alumni, etc., and make sure to research interviewers’ backgrounds and career paths, which will look impressive in an interview. You can also switch your profile to “#OpenToWork” which can be set to only be seen by users with specific LinkedIn licences (i.e. recruiters and in-house talent acquisition teams). Finally, don’t forget to include a (professional) picture! But not a selfie. Never a selfie.

As we embark on a new training year, success in accountancy is more than just reaching milestones — it's about celebrating small wins, embracing continuous learning and building strong networks, writes Jessica Bourke, CASSI Events Officer Success can mean many different things, especially in our industry.  As we move into a new training year, I hope to broaden my network, connect with new people and take time to deeply reflect on my journey. It's easy to get caught up in the big success stories, but what often goes unseen are the daily commitments, the countless trial-and-error moments and the long hours of hard work that we all put in when we are Chartered Accountants Ireland students. Everyone's path is unique, and each of us faces our own set of challenges. This year, I want to fully embrace this perspective and truly believe this dedication and perseverance will pay off. We should aim to take things one day at a time, one step at a time, as we work toward our goals. And when we achieve those goals, we know there will always be new ambitions to pursue, just as big and meaningful. Reflecting on my journey so far, I realise how important it is to celebrate the small wins along the way. It's easy to overlook the progress made when we are constantly looking ahead to the next big milestone. However, I understand that every small step forward, every skill mastered and every challenge overcome, is a part of the bigger picture.  This year, I want to make a conscious effort to recognise these moments and appreciate the growth they represent. It is through these small achievements that I build the resilience and confidence needed to tackle the bigger challenges ahead. Networking will also be a key focus going forward. Building strong professional relationships is essential in our field, as it opens doors to new opportunities and provides valuable support and guidance. We must actively engage with peers, mentors and industry professionals to exchange knowledge, share experiences and learn from one another.  By expanding my network, I hope to gain fresh perspectives and insights that will help me navigate my career path more effectively. Additionally, these connections can offer encouragement during challenging times and celebrate successes together, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Another important aspect of a strategy for success is dedicating time to self-reflection.  Understanding our strengths, weaknesses and areas for improvement is crucial for personal and professional growth. By regularly assessing progress and setting clear, achievable goals, we can ensure that we are continuously moving forward.  This process of reflection also helps us stay aligned with our values and aspirations, ensuring that we are on the right path and making decisions that are true to ourselves. In addition to reflection and networking, another key to success is the commitment to continuous learning. The accountancy profession is constantly evolving, with new regulations, technologies and best practices emerging all the time.  To stay ahead of the curve, we must invest time in professional development, whether through courses, certifications or workshops. Keeping our skills up-to-date will not only enhance our performance but also increase our value to our organisation and clients.  As we move forward into this new training year, I am reminded that success is not a destination but a journey. It is about the continuous pursuit of growth, learning and improvement. I am prepared to face the challenges that come my way with determination and resilience, knowing that each experience contributes to my development.  By taking things one day at a time and one step at a time, I am confident that I will achieve my goals and be ready to set new ones, always striving for excellence. Ultimately, I believe that success is about finding fulfilment in what I do and making a positive impact through my work. As I continue to grow in my career, I want to remain open to new possibilities, stay curious and embrace every opportunity to learn and grow.