Financial Manager
O*NET-SOC: 11-3031.00
Plans, directs, and coordinates accounting, investing, banking, insurance, securities, and other financial activities of a branch, office, or department of an establishment.
About this Role
A Financial Manager oversees the financial health and strategy of a business by analyzing data, preparing reports, and guiding decisions about budgets, investments, and risk. They start by reviewing income statements, balance sheets, and cash-flow statements, then compare current performance to forecasts, industry benchmarks, and previous periods. They work closely with department heads to understand their spending and revenue needs, and adjust budgets or forecasts based on new contracts, market changes, or unexpected costs.
A Day in the Life
9:00 AM
Team meeting with finance staff
Lead a brief meeting with accountants and analysts to assign tasks, review upcoming deadlines, and confirm priorities for the week.
10:00 AM
Model and update financial forecast
Work in a spreadsheet or financial modeling tool to update revenue and cost projections, incorporating new sales data, contracts, or market events.
11:30 AM
Budget review with department heads
Meet with managers from marketing, operations, or R&D to discuss their budget requests, suggest trade-offs, and align spending with overall strategy.
12:30 PM
Lunch and break
Grab a quick meal, often using part of the break to check emails or briefly scan financial news relevant to the business.
1:30 PM
Prepare executive presentation on performance
Draft slides or a report summarizing key metrics, variances, and recommendations for senior leadership or the board, often including charts and tables.
3:00 PM
Coordinate with auditors or tax advisors
Respond to auditor questions, provide documentation, or review draft tax returns, ensuring the company’s financial records are accurate and compliant.
4:30 PM
Capital or investment proposal review
Analyze a potential investment, financing arrangement, or capital-expenditure project, calculating returns, risks, and impact on cash flow.
6:30 PM
Finalize reports and wrap-up
Complete final edits on reports or presentations, send them to stakeholders, and update the team’s task list for the next day.
Tools & Technologies
Databases & Data Tools
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft SQL Server
- Oracle Database
- SQL
- FileMaker Pro
ERP Systems
- SAP
- PeopleSoft
- Microsoft Dynamics
- Microsoft Dynamics GP
- NetSuite ERP
Business Intelligence
- Alteryx
- Tableau
- IBM Cognos Impromptu
- MicroStrategy
- Oracle Business Intelligence Enterprise Edition
Document Management
- Adobe Acrobat
- Microsoft SharePoint
Analytics & Science
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- SAS
Project Management
- Microsoft Project
- Oracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio Management
Salary Details
Certifications, Training & Memberships
Essential
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
AICPA and State Boards of Accountancy
Verifies expertise in financial reporting, auditing, and taxation, which is often essential or strongly preferred for senior financial managers in many countries.
Recommended
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
CFA Institute
Covers investment analysis, portfolio management, and financial markets, and is highly valued for roles involving corporate finance, treasury, or investment decisions.
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
Institute of Management Accountants
Focuses on management accounting, budgeting, performance measurement, and decision support, making it useful for controllers and financial planners.
Helpful
Financial Modeling and Valuation Analyst (FMVA)
Corporate Finance Institute
Teaches practical skills in financial modeling, valuation, and Excel analysis, which are commonly used by financial managers in planning and reporting.
Professional Memberships
Membership in a financial professional association
Financial Management Association
Provides access to conferences, research, and networking opportunities focused on corporate finance and financial management best practices.
Work Environment
- Remote Work
- Hybrid (Remote + Office)
- Work Setting
- Traditional office / indoor
- Physical Activity
- Mostly sedentary
- Social Interaction
- Highly collaborative — frequent team interaction
- Schedule
- Extended hours common
Your Skills & Attributes
Skills & Competencies Matches (48)
- Active ListeningStrong Match
- Critical ThinkingStrong Match
- WritingGood Match
- MonitoringGood Match
- Social PerceptivenessGood Match
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Financial Manager a good career?
Financial Manager can be a rewarding career choice. Based on current data, the median salary is $140K and job outlook is growing (16% projected growth). Whether it's a good fit depends on your skills, interests, and values — take our quiz to find out how well you match.
What degree do you need to become a Financial Manager?
The typical education requirement for a Financial Manager is a Bachelor's Degree. However, requirements can vary by employer and specialization. Some professionals enter the field with alternative credentials or relevant work experience.
How long does it take to become a Financial Manager?
Becoming a Financial Manager typically requires about 4 years of undergraduate study. Additional time may be needed for certifications, internships, or on-the-job training depending on the specific role and employer requirements.
What is the work-life balance like for a Financial Manager?
The work-life balance for a Financial Manager is demanding, often requiring long hours, irregular schedules, or high-pressure situations. Individual experiences vary based on employer, specialization, seniority level, and geographic location.
What is the job outlook for Financial Manager?
The job outlook for Financial Manager is growing. Employment is projected to grow by 16% over the coming decade. Labor market conditions can vary by region and specialization.