Earning the highly esteemed Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) title indicates a high level of accounting expertise.
It paves the way for various compelling career in finance possibilities in the United Kingdom.
While standard roles of portfolio managers and accountants are well-recognised, the spectrum of opportunities for CFAs extends to lesser-known, equally pleasing career paths.
This blog takes us on a quest to find five unique and not well-known
CFA job opportunities in the UK.
Table of contents
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5 Little-known job opportunities for CFAs in the UK
1. ESG Investment advisor
Investing is not solely about looking for financial gains; it’s also about benefiting the environment and the community.
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing has gained substantial momentum, and CFAs have the opportunity for success in the area.
As an ESG Investment Advisor, a CFA’s main duty is to match their customer’s investment choices with their ethical and environmentally friendly values.
They work closely with people and organisations to assist them in investing in businesses that prefer ESG factors, including reducing carbon emissions, encouraging social responsibility, and guaranteeing transparent governance procedures.
CFAs in this position conduct in-depth research to find ESG-compliant investment possibilities and evaluate the potential risks and returns.
They evaluate businesses’ environmental impact, social footprint, and corporate governance to offer customers an in-depth ESG investment strategy.
One of the essential elements of this position is staying current with the developing landscape of ESG regulations and standards.
CFAs must keep themselves updated on the worldwide ESG trends and campaigns, as these variables can significantly impact investment decisions.
2. Forensic accountant
Forensic accountants are financial investigators who use their unique abilities to examine financial differences, inconsistencies, and potential fraud.
This lesser-known but fascinating career path for Chartered Financial Analysts CFAs is crucial to preserving financial integrity in different sectors.
Forensic accountants apply their accounting expertise to identify accounting fraud, theft, and fiscal misconduct within organisations.
They may be called upon to investigate white-collar crime cases, such as corporate fraud, money laundering, and asset misappropriation.
One of the essential duties of a forensic accountant is to look over financial documents and transactions with precise attention.
They pursue discrepancies, irregular trends, and any evidence of fraud.
CFAs in this role work with law enforcement organisations, lawyers, and corporate entities.
They may be known as expert witnesses in legal proceedings to present their conclusions and offer financial insights to back up legal cases.
3. Wealth strategist
Wealth strategists, frequently referred to as wealth advisers or wealth managers, are essential in assisting families and individuals in managing their financial assets, preparing for the future, and accomplishing their long-term financial goals.
While this position may not be as well-known as conventional financial advisory positions, it provides CFAs a rewarding and specialised career path.
Wealth strategists direct high-net-worth customers through complicated financial decisions and investment plans.
They adopt a comprehensive strategy, considering not just investment portfolios but also estate planning, retirement planning, and wealth transfer.
CFAs in this position offer personalised financial advice corresponding to their customer’s unique financial circumstances and goals.
They conduct in-depth financial evaluations, analyse risk tolerance, and create extensive wealth management approaches.
This can involve planning tax-efficient techniques, streamlining the transfer of wealth to the next generations, and optimising investment portfolios.
Developing and sustaining strong client relationships is vital to being a wealth strategist.
Wealth strategists frequently act as trusted advisors who customers can turn to for advice on various financial matters.
4. FinTech consultant
As technological advances keep changing the financial landscape, the position of a FinTech (Financial Technology) consultant is emerging as a fascinating and rapidly evolving career path for CFAs.
FinTech experts bridge the gap between financial services and modern technology.
They assist financial institutions, new businesses, and companies in utilising the power of technology to improve their activities, services, and overall financial performance.
This role is desirable for CFAs interested in examining the intersection of finance and tech.
The main objective of a FinTech consultant is to find possibilities for technological solutions that can simplify processes, enhance customer experiences, and boost effectiveness within the financial industry.
This involves payment systems, investment tools, lending platforms, and cybersecurity.
CFAs in this position often work closely with clients, from traditional banks and insurance companies to rising fintech startups.
They start by evaluating the financial objectives and existing technology setup of their clients.
Then, they research and suggest suitable fintech solutions that match their customer’s requirements.
5. Real estate investment analyst
For Chartered Financial Analysts (CFAs) looking for a different career path combining finance with a tangible and changing asset class, becoming a Real Estate Investment Analyst is a fascinating prospect.
Real estate investment analysts excel in assessing and handling assets and portfolios on behalf of shareholders or real estate firms.
They serve an essential part in evaluating the performance, revenue, and potential risks related to real estate investments, making it a promising career preference for CFAs with an interest in the real estate market.
These experts conduct in-depth research on potential real estate investments, such as residential, commercial, and manufacturing facilities.
They evaluate factors like market trends, property values, rental revenue, and financial circumstances to assess the viability of an investment.
Their work frequently involves financial modelling and analysis to calculate investment returns, risks, and possible obstacles.
Real estate investment experts can work with developers, firms, asset management businesses, or real estate investment trusts (REITs).
They can offer helpful knowledge and suggestions that guide investment decisions, property acquisitions, and the handling of current real estate portfolios.
Hire Financials Advisor
Work with a UK-based accountant for tax, accounting, payroll, & EIS/ SEIS needs.
Final thoughts
While these positions may not be the most recognised paths for CFAs, they provide intriguing possibilities for those who want to use their financial expertise in distinctive and impactful ways. As the finance industry keeps changing, so do possibilities for CFAs. Consider examining these lesser-known career options for a role that matches your passions and abilities.
