Should I Consider Becoming an Accounting Director?

---

Students thinking of pursuing a career as an accounting director are considering a career choice filled with responsibilities like management, analysis, and development of financial strategies. This is a career meant for those who thrive under pressure and want to be the go-to person for both an employer and other staff members. There are several factors to take into account when considering a career as an accounting director (manager).

Education Requirements

Most employers seeking to fill the position of accounting manager (director) are looking for a candidate with a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Accounting, or Finance. Several require a Master’s degree in the same areas as well. Along with higher education credentials, it is also important for potential employees to gain two to five years experience in accounting. This is due to the job duties of an account manager, which are highly complex and based solely on the knowledge and skills gained through higher education and on-the-job experience.

Skills Needed

Qualified accounting directors have to possess a variety of upper level management and accounting skills. Each director must have strong leadership abilities and be able to negotiate complicated business challenges. They have to possess the skills needed to utilize critical thinking to solve problems and manage financial risk by using statistics and current economic data. Needless to say, good communication and analytical skills are also crucial along with a clear understanding of how finances work for or against a company seeking profitability.

Job Duties

Accounting directors are responsible for overseeing all company accounting functions and staff. Tasks like general accounting, payroll, cost accounting, staff management, and reporting are all included in the job description. Of course, in the eyes of an employer, an accounting director is there mainly to keep an eye on the money. Employers want someone in charge that understands the bottom line and has the ability to help them turn a profit, period.

Salary

According to salary.com, the typical annual salary for an accounting director is $127,876. While that may seem high, when the education and on-the-job training requirements are factored into the equation, it is well-deserved. Accounting directors who have put in the time and effort to earn such a high salary have done so by blood, sweat and tears. There is no easy path to becoming an accounting director and dedication, commitment, and a fierce desire to rise above other candidates are all necessary characteristics for anyone hoping to earn the respect and salary associated with a successful accounting director position.

Overview

For those students seriously considering a career as an accounting director, it is a good idea to take a long, hard look at what it takes to get there. Nothing less than the best will do for an accounting hopeful seeking to rise to the top as a director. This is not a career choice for someone with less than 100% commitment or drive.

However, if becoming the boss and carrying a huge load of responsibilities with a higher than average salary sounds appealing, pursuing a career in this field could be a perfect fit. It is important to weigh the pros and cons before diving into this career. If the pros outweigh the cons, get ready to give everything on the way to an amazing career with high earning potential.