How to Advance Your Career in Finance and Accounting: Strategies for 2025

The finance and accounting sector is in a constant state of flux, demanding more from professionals than ever before. Whether you’re looking for a promotion, seeking more challenging work, or considering a move to a new organization, advancing your career requires a blend of technical expertise, strategic networking, and proactive personal development.

At Oggi Talent, we’ve seen firsthand how the right approach can turn ambition into achievement. In this blog post, we’ll outline effective strategies for advancing your accounting or finance career. 

Common Struggles With Advancement Within Your Current Company

Many professionals encounter barriers to advancement within their current organizations. These can include:

• Limited upward mobility: Smaller firms or flat organizational structures may not have enough senior roles available.
• Lack of visibility: Your contributions may go unnoticed if you’re not actively advocating for yourself.
• Unclear pathways: Companies sometimes fail to provide transparent criteria or support for career progression.
• Office politics: Navigating internal dynamics can be challenging, especially in highly competitive environments.

As Forbes notes,

“Addressing the finance and accounting talent gap in 2025 requires a renewed focus on professional development and internal mobility”

How to Get the Career Conversation Started

Initiating a conversation about your career goals can be daunting, but it’s essential for growth. Consider these steps:

Set the stage

Clarify the purpose of the conversation and your desire for growth. Be prepared to discuss your achievements and aspirations.

Let your manager know your intentions

Frame the discussion around your commitment to adding value and growing with the company.

Ask for feedback

Request specific input on your strengths and areas for improvement.

Seek clarity

Inquire about the skills and experiences needed for advancement, and ask for a roadmap to help get you there.

“Effective career development conversations start with clear intentions and openness. Employees should lead the discussion, with managers acting as sounding boards and supporters.” ¹

Key Skills Needed to Advance in Corporate Finance

Advancing in corporate finance requires a blend of technical expertise, analytical ability, and interpersonal strengths. As the field evolves, employers increasingly value professionals who can interpret numbers, drive strategic decisions, and lead teams. Here are the essential skills to focus on:

Technical and Analytical Skills

• Financial Modeling & Data Analysis: Building and interpreting complex financial models, analyzing large datasets, and forecasting future performance are foundational.
• Accounting Proficiency: Understanding financial statements, cash flow management, and core accounting principles is critical for evaluating a company’s financial health.
• Financial Reporting & Forecasting: The ability to prepare, interpret, and present financial reports and forecasts helps drive business decisions and supports long-term planning.
• Risk Assessment: Quantitative and qualitative risk analysis skills enable you to evaluate potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.

Business and Strategic Skills

• Strategic Thinking: Seeing the big picture, identifying opportunities and risks, and devising long-term plans are crucial for aligning finance with business objectives.
• Business Intelligence & Digital Literacy: Proficiency with financial software, business intelligence tools, and digital platforms is increasingly important as finance becomes more data-driven.
• Capital Budgeting & Financial Management: Skills in capital allocation, budgeting, and financial management are key for resource optimization and value creation.

Leadership and Interpersonal Skills

• Communication: Clearly presenting financial information to stakeholders, including non-finance professionals, is essential for influencing decisions and driving change.
• Leadership: Leading teams, managing projects, and inspiring others are vital as you move into more senior roles.
• Problem-Solving: Tackling complex challenges, analyzing data, and developing creative solutions are daily requirements in corporate finance.
• Ethics and Integrity: Maintaining high ethical standards is fundamental, given the responsibility for financial decisions and confidential information.

Continuous Learning and Adaptability

• Adaptability: The finance landscape is constantly evolving. Being open to new technologies, regulations, and business models is crucial for long-term success.
• Continuous Learning: Staying updated with industry trends, new regulations, and emerging tools ensures you remain competitive and effective.

By developing these skills, finance professionals can position themselves for advancement, take on greater responsibilities, and make a significant impact within their organizations.

Networking and Mentorship

Career progression isn’t just about what you know- it’s also about who you know:

• Expand your network: Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and maintain an active LinkedIn presence.
• Find mentors and sponsors: Mentors offer guidance, while sponsors actively advocate for your advancement within the organization.
• Leverage relationships: Many opportunities arise through connections rather than job boards.

When to Look Beyond Your Current Company

If you’ve exhausted growth opportunities internally or face persistent barriers, it may be time to explore options elsewhere:

• Assess the landscape: If your company lacks a clear path for advancement, don’t hesitate to look externally for roles that align with your goals.
• Confidentiality matters: Conduct your search discreetly to protect your current position and professional relationships.
• Partner with recruiters: Specialized recruiters can provide access to hidden opportunities, offer market insights, and guide you through the transition while keeping your search confidential.

According to a recent article in Forbes, “Finance experts and people looking to move into finance roles must keep pace with these changes and continue to upskill to remain relevant.”

Additional Considerations

• Understand your firm: Know how your company generates revenue and what drives decision-making. This knowledge can help you position yourself as indispensable.
• Demonstrate initiative: Volunteer for cross-functional projects or committees to gain visibility and broaden your skill set.
• Quantify your impact: Use data to showcase your contributions and results on your resume and in conversations with leadership.

Take Charge of Your Career With Oggi Talent

Advancing your career in finance and accounting requires a proactive, strategic approach-one that blends skill development, networking, and a willingness to seek new opportunities when necessary. If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, Oggi Talent’s team of expert recruiters can help you navigate the market, identify the right opportunities, and keep your search confidential every step of the way.

Ready to make your next move? Contact Oggi Talent today, and let’s build your future together.

FAQs: Advancing Your Career in Corporate Finance

Q: What qualifications are most valuable for advancing in corporate finance?

A: The most valuable qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field. Professional certifications such as CPA (Certified Public Accountant), CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), or an MBA can significantly enhance your career prospects. These credentials demonstrate expertise and commitment to the field and can set you apart from other candidates when seeking promotions or new opportunities.

Q: How can I gain visibility for promotion within my current company?

A: To gain visibility, proactively communicate your achievements and contributions to your manager and team. Volunteer for high-impact projects, participate in cross-departmental initiatives, and seek feedback regularly. Building relationships with colleagues across the organization and demonstrating leadership potential can also help you stand out when promotion opportunities arise.

Q: What technical skills should I focus on to stay competitive in corporate finance?

A: Key technical skills include advanced Excel, financial modeling, data analysis, and proficiency with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems like SAP or Oracle. Familiarity with business intelligence tools (such as Power BI or Tableau) and a solid understanding of accounting principles and financial reporting standards are also highly valued.

Q: How important are soft skills in advancing a finance career?

A: Soft skills are increasingly critical in corporate finance. Strong communication skills enable you to explain complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders. Leadership, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities are essential for managing projects, leading teams, and navigating organizational change. Employers look for finance professionals who can collaborate effectively and drive strategic initiatives.

Q: When should I consider looking outside my current company for advancement?

A: Consider external opportunities if you’ve consistently sought advancement without progress, if there’s a lack of clear career pathways, or if your skills and contributions are not being recognized. If your company’s structure limits upward mobility or you’re seeking new challenges, exploring roles at other organizations can provide the growth and advancement you’re looking for. Always conduct your job search confidentially and strategically.

Q: How can a professional recruiting agency help me advance my career in corporate finance?

A: A professional recruiting agency can be a valuable partner in your career advancement. Recruiters have access to exclusive job openings, industry insights, and connections with top employers that may not be advertised publicly. They can match your skills and career goals with suitable opportunities, provide guidance on resume and interview preparation, and help you navigate salary negotiations. Additionally, agencies maintain confidentiality, allowing you to explore new roles discreetly while still employed. Working with a reputable recruiter can streamline your job search and increase your chances of finding a role that aligns with your aspirations.