Job sheet

Chartered accountant: profession, tasks and salary

Roles and missions of the Chartered Accountant

Chartered Accountants are qualified professionals who occupy crucial positions in companies and organisations. They are responsible for preparing and producing accurate and up-to-date financial reports, but their roles and duties do not stop there. They are responsible for providing financial advice and services to their clients. Implementing accounting and financial systems and procedures to help them manage their finances and achieve their objectives is another aspect of their work. Chartered Accountants also help their clients comply with applicable tax rules and laws and prepare their tax returns. Here are some of the main roles and tasks of a chartered accountant:

  • Preparing and producing accurate and up-to-date financial statements
  • Developing accounting and financial systems for clients
  • Helping clients manage their finances and achieve their goals
  • Advising clients on financial and business matters
  • Ensuring compliance with tax rules and legislation
  • Prepare and review tax returns
  • Assess and resolve financial and budgetary issues
  • Analysing financial reports to identify anomalies and risks
  • Drawing up budgets and financial forecasts for clients
  • Provide internal and external audit services
  • Build and maintain professional relationships with clients

Salary and career development of a chartered accountant

The average gross annual salary of a Chartered Accountant in France can vary depending on a number of factors. The average gross annual salary is generally highest for chartered accountants with the most experience. Here is a list of salary differentials based on years of experience:

  • 0 to 2 years: between €40,000 and €55,000
  • 2 to 5 years: between €55,000 and €70,000
  • 5 to 10 years: between €70,000 and €85,000
  • 10 to 15 years: between €85,000 and €100,000
  • More than 15 years: between €100,000 and €120,000

A chartered accountant can choose from a variety of professions to develop their career. Some of the most popular jobs include tax advisor, financial controller, wealth management advisor, treasury manager and investment manager. Each of these roles offers unique benefits and allows the Chartered Accountant to use their skills and experience in a different professional context.

Advantages and disadvantages of a chartered accountant

Advantages

Building professional relationships: You'll have the opportunity to build relationships with clients, legal advisors and other professionals.

Skills development: CPAs benefit from ongoing training to keep abreast of the latest trends, laws and regulations.

Competitive pay: CPAs are well compensated, depending on experience, location and firm size.

Flexibility: Chartered Accountants can choose to be employed on a full-time or part-time basis, giving them the flexibility to adapt to their lifestyle.

Career progression: Accountants have the opportunity to move up the career ladder, become managers or even set up their own business.

Disadvantages

Stress: The work of a chartered accountant is very demanding and can be very stressful.

Overtime: Accountants are often required to work overtime to complete projects on time.

Accountability: Accountants are accountable for their decisions and must be diligent.

Knowledge of reports and regulations: CPAs must have a thorough knowledge of reports and regulations, which can be difficult to learn.

Intensity and complexity: Accountants are often required to manage complex and demanding tasks, which can be difficult to manage.

The latest job offers from a chartered accountant recruiter