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
From Senior Accounting Manager / Controller (Mid-size Company)
3-5 years in a Controller role, or 5-7 years in a Senior Accounting Manager role at a larger firm.Skills to master
- Scaling accounting processes for growth, managing complex consolidations, building robust internal controls, and leading a diverse team through close cycles.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully led a full month-end and quarter-end close process independently.
- Managed the relationship with external auditors and handled audit queries effectively.
- Implemented significant process improvements or system upgrades within the accounting function.
- Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop junior team members.
- 2
From Big 4 Audit Senior Manager / Director
Typically 2-4 years as a Senior Manager or Director in a Big 4 audit practice, followed by a move into industry.Skills to master
- Deep technical accounting expertise (IFRS/US GAAP), strong understanding of internal controls, client management, and the ability to translate audit findings into actionable business improvements.
You're ready to move on when
- Managed multiple large, complex audit engagements simultaneously.
- Provided technical accounting advice to clients on complex transactions.
- Successfully developed and managed audit teams.
- Strong grasp of public company reporting requirements.
- 3
From Assistant Corporate Controller (Large Organisation)
3-5 years as an Assistant Corporate Controller, often overseeing a specific segment or a large team.Skills to master
- Managing large teams, overseeing specific areas of complex accounting (e.g., revenue, M&A), driving process efficiencies at scale, and preparing sections of external filings.
You're ready to move on when
- Owned a significant portion of the external reporting process (e.g., specific footnotes, MD&A sections).
- Led a large team or multiple sub-teams within the accounting function.
- Successfully navigated complex technical accounting issues with minimal oversight.
- Demonstrated strong influencing skills with cross-functional partners.