Finance salaries vary significantly from junior through to senior roles and across the market segments of focus. If you are looking for high paying jobs in the UK, a banking or business finance career will deliver the opportunities you seek, with a reputation as one of the highest paying sectors. If you aspire to manage risk, be the head of a finance department or company, or conduct economic analysis, then you will want to know what heights your remuneration can reach.
Here we look at the average salaries for finance professionals in the UK Finance Industry, for job titles such as Certified Financial Planner, Financial Analyst, Chief Financial Officer, Investment Banker, Hedge Fund Manager, Portfolio Manager, Internal Auditor, Private Banking Analyst, Private Equity Analyst, Financial Manager, Economic Analyst, and more. We reveal the duties and responsibilities of each position, the benefits, and candidate criteria.
Quick Links:
- High Paid Finance Jobs In The UK
- Top 50 Highest Paying Financial Industry Jobs
- Other Highest Paid Jobs In Finance UK
- Average Salary Resources
- Highest Paying Finance Job FAQs
Highlights And Key Takeaways:
- The highest paid finance job in the UK is Head of Finance.
- Other high paying finance jobs include Quantitative Analyst and Finance Director.
High Paid Finance Jobs In The UK
We have collected and analysed the average salary data from 1,000s of finance companies and investment banks advertising finance jobs for finance professionals. So, our average and maximum salary data will help inform your next move and find job satisfaction. Whether you are already a financial services industry professional with a Bachelor’s Degree moving up the career ladder or a student considering a banking or finance degree, our finance industry salary data is essential reading.
Highest Paying Finance Jobs UK By Average Salary:
Here are the best paying jobs in finance.
1. HEAD OF FINANCE
The average salary of a Head of Finance is £115,100 per year. A Head of Finance oversees all of an organisations financial activities. The core responsibilities of this position include conducting risk management, evaluating investments, financial forecasting, resource management, and introducing cost reduction strategies.
To secure a high-paying Head of Finance job, you will need a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in finance, accounting, or business administration. Certifications from professional bodies such as the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment or similar will help your career progress to larger organisations if you have such aspirations.
2. QUANTITATIVE ANALYST
The average salary of a Quantitative Analyst is £81,400 per year. A Quantitative Analyst works with large data sets to develop statistical models that assist with risk management. A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree will help you start a high-earning career. Many recruiters are looking for individuals with experience using SQL databases and Python and R code writing for data science purposes.
Search Quantitative Analyst Jobs
3. FINANCE DIRECTOR
The average salary of a Finance Director is £79,700 per year. Working as a Finance Director, you will be responsible for driving the company’s financial operations and performance. The duties are far-reaching and incorporate ensuring legal compliance, conducting feasibility research, financial planning, training accounting personnel, and preparing comprehensive budgets.
An advanced degree in finance or accounting combined with significant real-world work experience will help you maximise your salary and benefits. Analytical thinkers and those with a natural maths aptitude will enjoy working as a Finance Director.
4. FP&A MANAGER
The average salary of an FP&A Manager is £70,500 per year. A Financial Planning & Analysis Manager uses financial analyst skills to identify financial trends, abnormalities, and deviations, creating financial reports and implementing corrective financial strategy and processes. They oversee profit and loss, income statements, budgets, and forecasting.
To become an FP&A Manager, you will need a Finance or Accounting Degree and ACCA, ACA, or CIMA qualifications.
5. RISK MANAGER
The average salary of a Risk Manager is £66,600 per year. A Risk Manager has a unique set of skills that are invaluable for many businesses. You will be responsible for conducting analysis and research, developing contingency plans, providing advice on risk levels, and managing internal policies and protocols.
Several years of experience working in risk management will set you up for the Risk Manager position. Appropriate degrees that will help you achieve your career aspirations include economics, finance, and business administration.
6. COMMERCIAL FINANCE MANAGER
The average salary of a Commercial Finance Manager is £62,600 per year. A Commercial Finance Manager is ultimately responsible for ensuring the commercial robustness of an organisation. Your duties will include advising operational managers on making sound decisions, negotiating contracts, making forecasts, and setting budgets.
If you have a wealth of commercial and financial knowledge and experience, then this is a role in which you can thrive. Most candidates have an advanced degree or are a qualified CIMA or ACCA accountant.
Search Commercial Finance Manager Jobs
7. RISK MANAGEMENT
The average salary in Risk Management is £60,000 per year. Risk Management Officers work as part of a risk management team and develop and implement risk policies and procedures within an organisation. They are responsible for analysing various financial data and economic trends to create risk estimates for extending credit to individuals, third parties, and business partners.
To successfully launch a Risk Management career and earn a high salary, you need a Bachelor’s degree in statistics, mathematics, economics, or analytics. If you have an analytical mindset and outstanding communication and computer skills, then a fulfilling career awaits.
8. FINANCIAL SYSTEMS ANALYST
The average salary of a Financial Systems Analyst is £57,700 per year. Financial Systems Analysts oversee, configure, customise, and maintain financial data storing and processing systems. To secure the highest paying jobs, you will need a Bachelor's Degree or Master’s in Finance and Accounting, Corporate Finance, Business Management, or Investment and Trading.
Search Financial Systems Analyst Jobs
9. FINANCIAL PLANNER
The average salary of a Financial Planner is £56,300 per year. The job duties of Financial Planning professionals include advising people or organisations on investment strategies, market trends, pension funds, mortgages, and insurance products.
To become a Financial Planner, you need a Financial Services, Accountancy, or Business Management Bachelor’s Degree. You must be FCA recognised, which can be achieved by earning an Investment Advice, Financial Advisors, or regulated Financial Planning Diploma.
10. FINANCIAL CONSULTANT
The average salary of a Financial Consultant is £41,600 per year. In a Financial Consultant role, you will advise individuals and professionals with the goal of helping them achieve financial stability or investment growth. You may advise on retirement planning, taxes and give investment projections.
A Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA or DipPFS) is the minimum qualification accepted by the Financial Conduct Authority to work as a Financial Consultant. You can complete the 200 hours of training independently or through an existing or prospective employer.
Search Financial Consultant Jobs
Most Popular High Paying Job In Finance:
After viewing our list of top average salaries, you might be wondering which finance jobs are most popular.
1. HEAD OF FINANCE
Heads of Finance earn an average annual salary of £115,100 per year.
Head Of Finance Salary | Search Head Of Finance Jobs
2. QUANTITATIVE ANALYST
Quantitative Analysts earn an average annual salary of £81,400 per year.
Quantitative Analyst Salary | Search Quantitative Analyst Jobs
3. FINANCE DIRECTOR
Finance Directors earn an average annual salary of £79,700 per year.
Finance Director Salary | Search Finance Director Jobs
4. RISK MANAGER
Risk Managers earn an average annual salary of £66,600 per year.
Risk Manager Salary | Search Risk Manager Jobs
5. FINANCIAL CLERK
Financial Clerks earn an average annual salary of £21,700 per year. A Financial Clerk carries out many financial and administrative duties on a daily basis, and this variety is something many professionals appreciate. Daily tasks include maintaining records of financial transactions, dealing with payroll, producing economic forecasts and budget reports, managing invoices, and resolving payment queries.
Companies have different entry requirements ranging from college qualifications in bookkeeping, finance, or accounting to degrees in finance or business studies. Working as a Financial Clerk can lead to promotions into higher-paying positions, such as finance manager or senior finance office.
Financial Clerk Salary | Search Financial Clerk Jobs
6. RISK MANAGEMENT
Risk Management Officers earn an average annual salary of £60,000 per year.
Risk Management Salary | Search Risk Management Jobs
7. COMMERCIAL FINANCE MANAGER
Commercial Finance Managers earn an average annual salary of £62,600 per year.
Commercial Finance Manager Salary | Search Commercial Finance Manager Jobs
8. FINANCIAL CONSULTANT
Financial Consultants earn an average annual salary of £41,600 per year.
Financial Consultant Salary | Search Financial Consultant Jobs
9. FINANCE MANAGER
Finance Managers earn an average annual salary of £51,500 per year. Your responsibilities as a Finance Manager include preparing business activity reports, forecasts, and financial statements. You will assist managers in making financial decisions, highlight business opportunities, and ensure all legal obligations are met.
If you have a Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance, you have the qualifications to apply for the Finance Manager role. However, most recruiters will also be looking for individuals with experience and can demonstrate their business understanding.
Finance Manager Salary | Search Finance Manager Jobs
10. ECONOMIST
Economists earn an average annual salary of £47,200 per year. As an Economist, you will work for the government, an organisation, or a business, steering economic decisions, presenting economic models, and researching historical data. Your position might include researching politics, energy, education, or healthcare, adding variety or specialisation to the role.
To work as an Economist, you will need a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, finance, accounting, statistics, or business studies. Apprenticeships and Government programs can also help you start your career. If you have a talent for conveying complex information and data to non-technical audiences, you should excel as an Economist.
Economist Salary | Search Economist Jobs
Top 50 Highest Paying Financial Industry Jobs
These are the top 50 highest paying jobs in finance by average salary:
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Quantitative Analyst Salary | Search Quantitative Analyst Jobs
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Commercial Finance Manager Salary | Search Commercial Finance Manager Jobs
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Financial Systems Analyst Salary | Search Financial Systems Analyst Jobs
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Financial Consultant Salary | Search Financial Consultant Jobs
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Financial Management Analyst Salary | Search Financial Management Analyst Jobs
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Procurement Manager Salary | Search Procurement Manager Jobs
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Financial Accounting Manager Salary | Search Financial Accounting Manager Jobs
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Risk Management Specialist Salary | Search Risk Management Specialist Jobs
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Financial Reporting Analyst Salary | Search Financial Reporting Analyst Jobs
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Finance Business Partner Salary | Search Finance Business Partner Jobs
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Financial Services Analyst Salary | Search Financial Services Analyst Jobs
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Finance Business Analyst Salary | Search Finance Business Analyst Jobs
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Personal Tax Advisor Salary | Search Personal Tax Advisor Jobs
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Financial Regulator Salary | Search Financial Regulator Jobs
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Branch Financial Manager Salary | Search Branch Financial Manager Jobs
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Procurement Consultant Salary | Search Procurement Consultant Jobs
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Procurement Specialist Salary | Search Procurement Specialist Jobs
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Credit Control Manager Salary | Search Credit Control Manager Jobs
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Financial Controller Salary | Search Financial Controller Jobs
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Personal Financial Advisor Salary | Search Personal Financial Advisor Jobs
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Commercial Loan Officer Salary | Search Commercial Loan Officer Jobs
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Procurement Analyst Salary | Search Procurement Analyst Jobs
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Pension Plans Administrator Salary | Search Pension Plans Administrator Jobs
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Credit Control Administrator Salary | Search Credit Control Administrator Jobs
Other Highest Paid Jobs In Finance UK
Other best paying jobs in finance include Personal Finance Advisor, Financial Risk Manager, Hedge Fund Managers, Chartered Financial Analyst, Chartered Global Management Accountant, Certified Public Accountant, Chief Compliance Officer, Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager, Insurance Advisor, Private Equity Associates, Financial Advisor, Information Technology Auditor, Investment Analyst, and Tax Director. Each of these roles plays a critical part in shaping the finance sector and contributing to the global economy.
Personal Finance Advisor: These financial professionals provide expert advice on personal finance, helping individuals manage their financial goals and make informed decisions about investments, savings, and retirement. Check the Personal Finance Advisor salary here.
Financial Risk Manager: Specialising in identifying and mitigating financial risks, these professionals play a crucial role in safeguarding a company’s financial health. Their expertise is vital in both private companies and other financial institutions. Check the Financial Risk Manager salary here.
Hedge Fund Managers: Operating in the investment sector, Hedge Fund Managers handle investment opportunities and strategies for hedge funds. They are skilled in financial modeling and market analysis, contributing to their fund's profitability. Check the Hedge Fund Manager salary here.
Chartered Financial Analyst: As one of the top paying jobs in finance, CFAs possess deep knowledge of investment banking, securities, and financial analysis. They are instrumental in guiding a company’s financial goals and strategies. Check the Chartered Financial Analyst salary here.
Chartered Global Management Accountant: These professionals focus on both financial and non-financial data to guide business strategy and ensure the company's overall health and success. Check the Chartered Global Management Accountant salary here.
Certified Public Accountant: CPAs are known for their expertise in accounting and tax matters, playing a key role in ensuring tax compliance and financial accuracy for individuals and businesses. Check the Certified Public Accountant salary here.
Chief Compliance Officer: This role involves overseeing a company's regulatory compliance, particularly crucial in sectors like investment banking and private equity, where adherence to government agencies' regulations is paramount. Check the Chief Compliance Officer salary here.
Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager: Similar to Chief Compliance Officers, these professionals ensure that financial institutions comply with all relevant laws and regulations. Check the Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager salary here.
Insurance Advisor: These advisors assist clients in selecting appropriate insurance policies, playing a significant role in personal finance and risk management. Check the Insurance Advisor salary here.
Private Equity Associates: Working in private equity, these professionals evaluate investment opportunities, manage portfolios, and often work on strategies to raise capital for private companies. Check the Private Equity Associates salary here.
Financial Advisor: Financial Advisors help individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals through careful planning and advice on investments, savings, and insurance. Check the Financial Advisor salary here.
Information Technology Auditor: These auditors play a vital role in assessing and ensuring the security and effectiveness of a company's computer systems, crucial in today's digital finance world. Check the Information Technology Auditor salary here.
Investment Analyst: Investment Analysts conduct in-depth research and analysis to identify lucrative investment opportunities and advise on market trends. Check the Investment Analyst salary here.
Tax Director: A Tax Director is responsible for overseeing a company's tax policies and strategies, ensuring compliance, and optimising financial outcomes. Check the Tax Director salary here.
In conclusion, these roles in finance are integral to the functioning and success of a wide range of sectors, from investment banking to personal finance. Whether it’s managing financial risks, guiding a company’s financial goals, or exploring investment opportunities, professionals in these positions are essential contributors to the finance sector and the global economy. Their expertise not only helps in guiding individuals and businesses towards financial stability and growth but also plays a critical role in the overall health of financial markets.
Average Salary Resources
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Highest Paying Finance Job FAQs
Next we answer your questions on the highest paying finance jobs.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BEST PAYING JOBS IN FINANCE?
The highest paying jobs in Finance go to Head of Finance, closely followed by Quantitative Analyst.
HOW MUCH DO FINANCE JOBS PAY?
You can view the Average Finance Salaries here for roles such as Financial Analysts, Investment Bankers, Investment Banking Analysts, Financial Advisors, Portfolio Managers, Budget Analysts, Financial Managers, Asset Managers, Equity Analysts, and for many other investment professionals.
WHAT SKILLS DO YOU NEED FOR A JOB IN FINANCE?
A career in the financial sector demands a diverse set of skills, ranging from technical know-how to sharp analytical abilities. One of the top paying finance jobs will require proficiency in financial software programs, essential tools in today’s digital finance world. These programs aid in everything from financial reporting to risk assessment, enabling professionals to analyse data effectively and make informed decisions.
Another key skill is a strong understanding of tax accounting and tax compliance. This expertise is vital for roles in both corporate finance and personal financial planning, where accurate and legal handling of taxes is crucial. Additionally, a solid grasp of cash flow management is essential. Whether working for a multinational corporation or a small business, the ability to manage and forecast cash flow is critical in ensuring financial stability and success.
Equally important are soft skills such as excellent communication and interpersonal abilities. Finance professionals often need to convey complex financial concepts in a clear and understandable manner to clients or colleagues who may not have a financial background. Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail are also paramount, as the finance industry involves intricate and sometimes high-stakes transactions.
WHAT EDUCATION IS NEEDED FOR FINANCE INDUSTRY JOBS?
The education required for a career in finance typically starts with an undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as finance, economics, accounting, or business administration. This foundational education provides a broad understanding of financial principles and practices, as well as the regulatory environment of the financial sector.
In addition to a degree, many finance roles require specific certifications or additional training, particularly for more specialised positions. For instance, becoming a chartered accountant, certified financial planner, or chartered financial analyst involves passing rigorous exams and meeting professional experience requirements.
Furthermore, ongoing education is often necessary in the finance industry. The financial landscape is constantly evolving with new regulations, technologies, and financial instruments. Professionals in the field must stay updated on these changes to ensure compliance, effective risk assessment, and the best financial strategies for their clients or organisations.
In summary, a career in finance requires a combination of formal education, specialised training, and a diverse set of skills. From mastering financial software programs to understanding the intricacies of tax compliance, finance professionals must be well-equipped to navigate the complex and dynamic world of finance. With the right education and skill set, a career in finance can be both rewarding and challenging, offering a range of opportunities in various sectors of the industry.