If accountancy is a career you want to pursue, it offers a lot of flexibility in terms of qualifications and a diverse range of sectors to work in.

I recently read a very interesting article which stated “you actually don’t need to be a mathematician” to succeed within accountancy. At first instance this may raise a few eyebrows, but having recruited for various roles at a range of firms, I find it fascinating to meet individuals from such different backgrounds who pursue accountancy. I’ve had many candidates with a history that is as structured as legal to free-flowing music artists looking for a career change; the diversity is fantastic!

The underlying point of the article was that you do not have to be a mathematical genius to start a career in accountancy as it can really work out for anyone, irrespective of what you majored in at university. It was reported that there is an increase in the number of school leaver programmes at a range of firms, proving the flexibility of being able to join the accountancy path. If it’s a career you want to pursue, you can do it with many qualification options to choose from. Be it the ACA, ACCA, CPA, CIMA or CMA, they all have an endless list of benefits.

"These qualifications offer you an opportunity to work internationally to become a specialist in your chosen sector."

The ACA for example comprises of 15 exams and also requires 450 days of practical work experience. Once completing the ACA qualification with your company, you can go into many areas such as practice, commerce and industry or banking. It is a well-known fact that the ACA qualification is highly regarded by the Big 4, due to its stringent characteristics. A similar qualification is the ACCA, also commonly taken by those wanting to pursue a career within practice and industry. With both qualifications, you will be given the opportunity to work internationally and if you want, you can become a specialist in your chosen sector.

Whether you went to university or not, pursued a degree unrelated to accountancy or even if you are not a maths “genius”, you really can prosper in accountancy. It is an extremely diverse option and you can go into several sectors.

Omer Zakaria, Associate Director - Saudi Arabia