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Accountant

Prepare accounts, advise on tax, and help businesses or people manage money correctly.

This UK accountant career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.

Quick facts

Starting salary
£24,000 - £32,000 (trainee)
Mid-career salary
£45,000 - £70,000 (qualified)
Senior salary
£90,000 - £200,000+ (partner / CFO)
Work environment
Office or remote, busy at year-end
Time to entry
3 - 5 Years (ACA / ACCA / CIMA)
Degree required
Not strict (ACA / ACCA / CIMA matter)
Category
Business, Finance and Legal

What a Accountant does

Prepare accounts, advise on tax, and help businesses or people manage money correctly.

  • Audit Associate - Check company accounts for accuracy and compliance.
  • Tax Advisor - Help individuals and businesses minimise tax legally.
  • Management Accountant - Provide internal financial reporting and forecasting.
  • Forensic Accountant - Investigate fraud and financial disputes.

How to become a Accountant

  1. Look up Accountant roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
  2. Talk to someone already working as a Accountant - even a 15-minute call helps
  3. Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
  4. Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
  5. Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month

Key skills

  • Attention to detail
  • Maths
  • Software (Xero/Sage)
  • Communication