A skilled financial analyst plays an integral role in determining the direction that a company or corporation takes in its operations. A job incumbent’s accurate forecasts on profitability, solvency, liquidity and stability allow management to make informed decisions about how best to conduct their business.

Individuals successful in securing such a position will be expected to research, collate and analyse balance sheets and accounting data to give reliable assessments of an organisation’s economic performance. The data then needs to be written up in layman’s terms and often presented to clients or senior managers.
Minimum qualifications required by employers are a BSc degree in accounting as well as prior experience. Those with MSc level degrees or who are chartered ACCA or CMA accountants, as well as people with the industry’s CFA and CIIA certification, are often given preference.
Institutions such as banks and insurance companies have openings for financial analysts. Vacancies tend to be in London and other UK business and commerce centres. Salaries range from a low of £32,500 to a high of £65,000 plus bonus, depending on level of responsibility and job location.

Financial Analysts provide interpretations about auditing processes, business performance, budgets, investments and financial dealings. They recommend cost saving strategies and measures on reducing the business expenditure on non-relevant items. Analysts play a key role in an organization as they help to maintain the company’s success and guide executives in making wise business and financial decisions.
A Financial Analyst usually performs any of the following tasks:
• Cost reduction
• Accounting
• Reconciliations
• Advising clients
• Assisting auditors
• Networking with industry professionals
• Reviewing budgets
• Checking the integrity of data
• Forecasting
• Helping the business in its investments
• Analysing real estate investment opportunities, stocks, bonds and other financial products

• Computer technology
• Using financial software
• Applying technical knowledge
• Using commercial skills
• Networking
• Negotiating
• Problem solving
• Flexibility
• Organization
• Meeting deadlines
• Focus and persistence
• Understanding complex information
• Following business protocols

Financial analysts should obtain Finance or Accounting certifications. Employers recognize these certifications and they help them to trust in an analyst’s abilities. Some of these certifications may include ACA, CIMA, or an ACCA. Having an MBA or a Finance Master's Degree is always an asset.