MSc Finance and Accounting with CIMA
The MSc Finance and Accounting with CIMA course develops advanced knowledge of finance and accounting and is designed to align with the...
A Financial Manager works within finance and financial management, applying specialist knowledge and practical skills to deliver services, solve problems or support organisational objectives. Responsibilities vary according to the employer, sector and level of experience. The role typically combines professional or technical expertise with communication, organisation and collaboration. With experience, professionals may take responsibility for more complex work, projects or teams.
Analyse financial information and performance. Prepare budgets, forecasts or financial reports. Monitor financial controls, risks and expenditure. Provide financial advice to managers or clients. Support planning and commercial decision-making. Ensure work follows relevant financial standards and policies.
Salaries for Financial Managers vary according to experience, qualifications, sector and location. Entry-level professionals generally earn less, with pay increasing as they develop specialist expertise and take on greater responsibility. Experienced, senior and management-level professionals can earn significantly more. London-based positions and roles requiring specialist skills may also attract higher salaries.
Most Financial Managers work full time, commonly around 35 to 40 hours per week. Working patterns vary by employer and some positions may require additional hours, travel, shifts or work outside normal office hours. Opportunities are available across the UK. Depending on the profession, work may take place in offices, specialist facilities, client locations, operational sites or through hybrid working.
As a Financial Manager, your working day will depend on your organisation and current responsibilities. You can expect to balance specialist work with meetings, communication, planning and collaboration. The role requires you to manage priorities and maintain appropriate professional standards. More senior positions generally involve greater responsibility for decisions, projects, budgets or team members.
Entry requirements for a Financial Manager vary according to the profession and employer. A relevant degree, vocational qualification, apprenticeship or professional training can provide a route into the career. Some roles require professional registration or industry-specific qualifications. Continuing professional development can help maintain current knowledge and support progression into more senior or specialist positions.
Relevant work experience can strengthen applications for Financial Manager roles. Placements, internships, volunteering, university projects and entry-level employment can all provide opportunities to develop practical skills. Experience in a related environment is particularly useful because it demonstrates professional awareness and provides examples of applying your knowledge in practice.
With experience, a Financial Manager can take on more complex responsibilities, develop a specialist area or progress into supervisory and management positions. Further qualifications and professional development may lead to opportunities in senior practice, consultancy, project leadership, training or organisational management.
Build the skills needed for this role with these courses.
Common questions about this role.
Step-by-step guidance on preparing and submitting your university application.
Step-by-step guidance on preparing and submitting your university application.
Learn what qualifications and English levels you’ll need to apply.
Learn what qualifications and English levels you’ll need to apply.
Find essential information on UK student visas, immigration, and ATAS certificates.
Find essential information on UK student visas, immigration, and ATAS certificates.
Understand tuition fees, payment options, and financial requirements before you apply.
Understand tuition fees, payment options, and financial requirements before you apply.
