Start your journey to becoming a chief accounting officer by majoring in business administration, finance, or accounting. Acquire certification as an accountant and focus your job search on corporate settings or positions dealing with corporate accounts. Constantly refine your resume in anticipation of executive-level opportunities that arise.
The primary responsibilities for a chief accounting officer include managing a firm’s accounts and ensuring the effective operation of all accounting aspects, from bookkeeping to compliance with tax and regulatory requirements.
To be qualified for the role, you will need:
- A bachelor’s degree in accounting, Business Administration, or Finance
- Master’s degree (for some positions)
- Professional accounting experience
- Industry-specific knowledge
- Proficient computer skills, including knowledge of accounting software and databases
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including presentation abilities
- Leadership qualities, patience, and organizational skills
A chief accounting officer might climb the corporate ladder or be hired based on their accounting expertise and management experience. They are tasked with establishing accounting policies, liaising with other departments, ensuring the accuracy of accounting reports, and maintaining regulatory compliance.
Main Differences with CFO
The chief accounting officer has a more focused role on accounting operations, while the chief financial officer (CFO) has a broader view of the company’s finances. Despite their different scopes, both positions collaborate closely as part of the senior management team.