The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Senior Manager, Financial Reporting (Public Company)
3-5 years in that role before moving to Director.Skills to master
- Deep expertise in SEC filings, managing audit relationships, leading a team through quarter-end close, and technical accounting research.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully led multiple 10-K and 10-Q cycles from start to finish.
- Consistently received positive feedback from external auditors and internal stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop junior team members.
- Proactively identified and resolved complex accounting issues.
- 2
Lead, External Reporting & IR Analytics (Public Company)
3-4 years in that role, with a strong focus on narrative and investor comms.Skills to master
- Crafting MD&A, drafting earnings scripts, analysing analyst models, and strong communication with IR and C-suite.
You're ready to move on when
- Owned significant portions of the earnings script and investor presentations.
- Successfully navigated complex disclosure discussions with Legal and IR.
- Demonstrated strategic thinking in communicating financial performance.
- Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders on messaging.
- 3
Big Four Audit Senior Manager / Director (Public Company Specialisation)
5-7 years at Senior Manager/Director level, auditing public clients.Skills to master
- Deep technical accounting knowledge, understanding of ICFR, experience with SEC regulations, client management, and team leadership.
You're ready to move on when
- Managed multiple large public company audits, including SEC registrants.
- Advised clients on complex accounting issues and new standards.
- Demonstrated strong project management and client relationship skills.
- Successfully led and developed large audit teams.