A CPA qualification opens the door to many different types of accounting careers
The mention of accounting often conjures up the idea of tax and audit. But in reality, there’s much more to it than that.
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The mention of accounting often conjures up the idea of tax and audit. But in reality, there’s much more to it than that, and a certified public accountant (CPA) qualification can open the door to many different career avenues.
Singapore-based Kevin Rose, chief financial officer, Kaplan International Colleges, notes that a CPA designation develops skills that are sought after in a range of sectors. Rose says those with commercial aptitude and interpersonal skills will have almost unlimited career choices if they become a CPA.
CPAs are exposed to a wide range of businesses, and get the opportunity to understand many different aspects of their company. “Because CPAs have logical thought processes and commercial awareness, they are able to work in all areas of business and commerce. These include sales and marketing, operations management, and as chief information officers,” Rose says.
“A key reason CPAs are in demand is because they add value to the decision-making processes with their analytical insights and their understanding of data,” Rose says. On the job front, economic expansion and increased regulation is creating a demand for CPAs to manage risk and compliance, such as that required by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX).
Rose stresses that the journey to a CPA qualification has its challenges. For example, leaving university and joining a professional services firm means juggling a full-time job while studying for the CPA designation. This requires commitment, motivation, and careful time management. In spite of this, Rose says the potential career rewards of a CPA designation outweigh the effort and commitment that go into it. “The key is to stay focused on your goals and the reward comes,” advises Rose.
