Job Prospects for Newly Qualified Accountants in the South West
added april 6th 2010Recruitment specialist Reed Finance gives the low-down on job prospects for newly qualifieds (NQs) considering working in the South West.
What types of jobs are most commonly available for NQs in the region?
Currently there is a strong demand within Controls and Compliance, and an ongoing requirement for NQ External Auditors looking to make their first move out of practice into an Internal Audit role. Similarly, there are always opportunities for strong Management / Financial Accountants and good Financial Analysts.
For candidates looking in the practice market, Audit Senior is one of the most prevalent roles at the moment.
We also have a number of temporary and interim opportunities, which can be a great initial option as they give you an opportunity to 'sus' out an area before deciding whether or not you want to make a permanent move to the region.
Which sectors are particularly strong for NQs ?
Financial Services (FS) is currently one of the most buoyant sectors locally, and businesses such as Lloyds, Cheltenham & Gloucester and Nationwide are all recruiting NQs.
The Utilities (particularly renewable energy), Media/Advertising, Software and Outsourcing sectors are also doing well.
Public Practice is less buoyant for NQs - with opportunities mainly limited to the smaller, local firms after the Big 4 downsized in the recession. However, as we emerge from the downturn, the larger firms will start rebuilding their workforce, which should lead to more opportunities for NQs as 2010 progresses.
What is the average salary in the region for NQs?
In the Bristol area, NQs in Practice can expect between £28,000 and £32,000, while in Industry NQs typically command between £32,000 and 40,000.
For Devon/Cornwall: these figures fall slightly to £26,000 -28,000 in Practice and £30,00 to £35,000 in Industry.
The main determining factor for obtaining higher-end salaries is often soft skills, with the better paid roles going to candidates who can communicate effectively at all levels, give advice to operations and use their influencing / negotiation skills in a business context.
Are there many jobs currently available for NQs in the region?
At the time of writing, there were over 80 NQ-level roles available on www.reed.co.uk within a 30-mile radius of Bristol.
However, as the country emerges out of recession, we expect that the number of opportunities for NQs will increase.
What are some of the main benefits, highlights and attractions in the area?
Excellent transport infrastructure: Bristol is adjacent to the M4/M5 interchange and London is less than two hours away by road (M4). The M5 provides easy access to the Midlands and the North, as well as to Devon and Cornwall.
Attractions and lifestyle: Bristol combines the benefits of city life - art galleries, theatres (Bristol Old Vic and the Bristol Hippodrome), live music venues (St George's, Bristol) and a multitude of bars and restaurants - with a laid back, 'bohemian' atmosphere. There is also a nice riverside area, historic docks, the restored, award-winning SS Great Britain, river boat restaurants and boat trips, etc.
Bristol is surrounded by beautiful countryside, scenic coastlines and beaches popular with holidaymakers and surfers. The South Coast; Devon and Cornwall; The Cotswolds;
Cheddar Gorge, Cheddar Caves and Wookey Hole; Bath and South Wales are all easily accessible from the City.
Why should NQs looking for a role in the South West approach Reed Finance's Bristol office?
Reed Finance has always got live permanent and/or temporary opportunities for NQs and is the supplier of choice for many NQ employers in the area - including one of the region's biggest recruiters.
Our consultants are true experts in their markets, specialising in different sectors and/or geographical areas, with many years' senior finance recruitment experience. We have specialists in commerce & industry, practice, public sector and interim placements.
- Ends -
For further information please contact:
Adrian Linden
PR Manager
Reed Press Office
T: 0845 241 9249
E: press.office@reedglobal.com
View this article online: http://www.reedpressoffice.co.uk/newsArticle/Job+Prospects+for+Newly+Qualified+Accountants+in+the+South+West/