- The leadership pathway
- The specialisation pathway
- The consulting & entrepreneurship pathway
As FutureCFO reports, “The accounting industry in Singapore is experiencing a talent shortage. This is exacerbated by the rapid pace of technological advancement that demands a workforce skilled in both traditional accounting practices and new digital tools.”
While this is great news for accounting professionals looking to crack the job market, it also distils the common hurdles faced by mid-career accountants today.
If you’re one of the many mid-career professionals aiming for senior roles, new certifications or leadership positions, you might be plagued by some modern challenges – the fear of failure, the sense of feeling stuck and the constant uphill battle to keep pace with technology.
With the proliferation of AI, automation and digital finance, there’s no doubt the landscape of accounting and finance is changing.
In fact, 94% of employees say learning and enhancing AI skills related to their role is necessary for future career success.
As this blog will show, you don’t have to let anxiety trump your accounting ambitions. With clarity comes confidence, so join us as we explore the various pathways for accounting career progression.
We’ll investigate the different career paths, salary insights and actionable tips that can help you make more informed decisions about your accounting future.
Related: Why is finance an interesting career pursuit
Career paths for mid-career accountants in Singapore
Gina Chia is a Practice Director at Robert Half and a specialised finance and accounting recruiter. Backed by her 8 years of experience in the recruitment world, Gina says that accounting professionals need an array of commercial skills these days, which paves the way for various career options.
She says, “Being commercially savvy is no longer a bonus; it's a necessity for finance professionals looking to excel in today's market. They need a strong grasp on accounting fundamentals, but they also require a solid understanding of business strategy and the ability to translate financial data into actionable insights.”
“Ultimately, these skills can empower them to thrive in the digital age. They’re also a major asset when it comes to succeeding in different career paths – they open up doors and enable them to do the job well.”
When it comes to accounting career progression, Gina says there are three common pathways. Let’s explore each of them along with their defining characteristics.
The leadership pathway – for those interested in overseeing financial strategy, decision-making and governance
Typical roles
Finance Manager → Senior Finance Manager → CFO / Finance Director.
Responsibilities and focus areas
Managing financial operations, budgeting and reporting.
Leading teams.
Working closely with the executive team to drive business strategy.
Certifications and skills
Leadership-focused certifications (e.g., CFA, CPA, ACCA).
Experience in financial planning, risk management and mergers & acquisitions.
Decision-making, leadership and communication.
As the Robert Half 2025 Singapore Salary Guide shows, there is strong demand in the area of corporate finance.
Despite overall salary trends remaining flat, the high demand for skilled financial analysts to provide data-driven insights is driving up compensation in this area. At the top end of the market, organisations are laser-focused on securing high-performing leaders, particularly for Finance Director and CFO roles.
The specialisation pathway – for those interested in providing niche expertise in areas such as tax, forensic accounting, internal audit and ESG reporting
Typical roles
Senior Tax Consultant → Tax Manager → Tax Director.
Internal Auditor → Audit Manager → Chief Audit Executive.
Responsibilities and focus areas
Taxation: Corporate tax strategy, compliance and advisory.
Forensic Accounting: Fraud investigation and financial crime analysis.
Internal Audit: Ensuring regulatory compliance and risk management.
ESG Reporting: Sustainability finance and non-financial disclosures
Certifications and skills
CISA, CIA (audit)
CTA (tax)
CFE (forensic accounting)
Industry experience in regulatory compliance and financial investigations.
Continuous learning is required to stay abreast of regulatory changes and emerging trends.
The consulting & entrepreneurship pathway – for those wanting to move into an advisory role or start their own firm
Typical roles
Financial Consultant → Senior Advisor → Partner / Business Owner
Responsibilities and focus areas
Finance transformation consulting.
Business restructuring and strategy.
SME accounting and advisory services.
Certifications and skills
CFA, CMA or CTA.
Business acumen and networking skills.
Expertise in financial consulting, business valuation and mergers & acquisitions.
Certification and skills for accounting career progression
Certifications
With so many available accounting certifications, it can be hard for mid-career professionals to know what an employer’s preference is.
You’ve likely wondered about the certifications that will set you apart. More specifically, you might have grappled with the decision of choosing between a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification or a Chartered Accountant (CA) certification.
Gina says while both have the power to enhance your credibility, each one caters to different goals and specialities.
She says, “From a top-line perspective, a CPA certification is ideal for technical expertise and regulatory compliance. In my experience, a CPA tends to suit the needs of small to medium-sized enterprises.”
“On the other hand, a CA certification is good for strategic leadership and executive roles. I find that CAs have great technical accounting abilities and can effectively navigate the needs of the Singaporean and broader Asian market.”
Related: Do you need a Chartered Accountant (CA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA)?
With each bringing different attributes to the table, let’s see what else sets them apart:
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Offered by the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA)
CPAs are certified by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), so can work both in the USA and anywhere with American regional offices.
CPAs are equipped with a broader frame of knowledge, with more varied accounting skills, making them better suited to contribute to business strategy.
CPA qualifications are often considered the “gold standard” for accounting and finance professionals in Singapore.
CPA certification requires 150 hours of study on core finance, business, and accounting subjects, and the AICPA requires the certificate to be completed in 18 months.
Ideal for those in public practice, corporate finance, or government roles.
Chartered Accountant (CA)
Awarded by the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification (SCAQ).
While SAC-qualified CAs can and often do work overseas, their qualification from the SAC is tailored to the financial environment in Singapore (that said, it is globally recognised).
CAs are typically more specialised in auditing and taxes and are better equipped to handle more complex accounting issues.
Covering strategic finance and business leadership, a CA certification is well suited for those aiming for senior leadership roles (i.e., CFO, Finance Director).
Expert tip: It’s important to note that other certifications and degrees are currently in demand in the world of finance and accounting. As outlined in the Robert Half 2025 Singapore Salary Guide, some favourable certifications include: Certified Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and Certified Tax Practitioner (CTP).
Related: 7 accounting certifications you need for a career in Singapore
Emerging skills
While upskilling through courses and certifications will give you an edge in Singapore’s financial sector, honing the right skills will also help you to future-proof your career.
For example, 79% of finance and accounting worker in Singapore say automation will have a positive impact on their current job and career prospects as it creates more demand for their skills and career outlook. Only 3% say it will have a negative impact*.
Gina says, “The finance and accounting space is undergoing rapid transformation. As a mid-career professional, your accounting career progression will hinge on how well you can adapt and sharpen new skills. Ultimately, employers are looking for candidates who can elevate their business in the digital age.”
Want higher salaries, leadership roles and better job security? It’s time to sharpen your competitive edge with the three new skills below.
Data analytics
WHY? To help organisations leverage data-driven decision-making.
HOW? By extracting insights, enhancing forecasting and optimising business strategy.
Financial modelling
WHY? It’s a non-negotiable skill for those in leadership and advisory roles.
HOW? By assessing investment opportunities, risk analysis and business valuation.
Regulatory compliance
WHY? To help businesses stay compliant and competitive.
HOW? Through expertise in compliance frameworks, risk assessment and tax laws.
2025 employer preferences
Gina encourages all accounting professionals to stay abreast of market trends and employer preferences.
She says, “Consider the Robert Half 2025 Singapore Salary Guide your bible in navigating the finance and accounting space. It’s filled with insider information that can help you to hone the right skills and leverage current opportunities.”
“For example, it’s worthwhile noting that SAP ECC 6.0 is expiring at the end of 2027. What some accounting professionals may not know is that Singaporean businesses are on the hunt for talented business analysts to help them transition to SAP S/4HANA Cloud. This information is critical, especially for accounting professionals who might be able to aid with the migration.”
Interested in what else is included in the Robert Half 2025 Singapore Salary Guide? Let’s take a look below.
In-demand functional areas in finance and accounting
Financial Planning & Analysis
Controllership
Internal audit
Treasury/tax
In-demand skills in finance and accounting
Financial accounting and reporting (IFRS/US GAAP)
FP&A/Commercial finance
Costing
Consolidation
Data analytics and financial modelling
Top industries hiring for finance and accounting talent
High-tech manufacturing
Energy/renewable energy
FMCG/retail
Pharmaceutical/medical devices
Related: 6 soft skills for accounting and finance
Salary growth and negotiation
Given the recent market fluctuations, job security remains a top priority for employees in Singapore, with 35% of finance workers prioritising job security over salary.
Despite this, Gina believes that mid-career professionals shouldn’t feel as though they have to settle for an unfair salary.
“Understanding industry benchmarks is crucial if you want to secure fair remuneration for your skills and services. Again, I can’t understate how important it is to get your salary information from a reputable source like the Robert Half Singapore Salary Guide,” says Gina.
“Typically, a mid-career professional would have an average level of experience and most of the necessary accounting skills. This places them in the 50th percentile for the documented salary ranges.”
Let’s take a look at some of the typical salaries for mid-career accounting roles:
Management Accountant - $68,000
Senior Accountant -$84,000
Accounting / Finance Manager - $116,000
Finance Controller - $168,000
Whatever your role, there’s nothing wrong with a need for fair compensation, a desire for validation and healthy career ambitions. When attempting to negotiate a salary increase or promotion, be sure to:
Know your worth - So you can be confident in your value and make a compelling case.
Prepare for negotiation – Get ready to justify your desired salary through quantifiable evidence. Highlight your achievements, professional growth activities, and future aspirations while aligning them to the organisation’s objectives.
Master the conversation - Preparation, confidence and strategic communication are key! Don’t be afraid to leverage scripts or negotiation templates.
Leverage market trends – Identify what is most sought after in the world of accounting and align it with your unique abilities. Use it to your advantage in your negotiations!
Related: 7 skills an Accountant should know in Singapore
Work-life balance – can you have it all?
Accounting career progression isn’t necessarily about working harder, it’s about working smarter.
Gina says work-life balance is not only possible, it’s vital if you want to achieve sustainable productivity, holistic well-being and personal fulfilment.
She says, “Singapore’s work culture is fast-paced – it can be easy to become burnt out if the right boundaries aren’t implemented. Nurturing yourself at work (and at home) may seem cliché, but it will allow you to sustain peak performance and grow your accounting career.”
Don’t sacrifice your well-being in the pursuit of leadership roles – instead, implement some winning strategies to help you mitigate burnout. Some examples include:
Prioritising with the Pareto Principle - Focusing on the 20% of tasks that deliver 80% of results.
Leveraging technology – Boost efficiency through cloud-based accounting tools.
Implementing time blocking and scheduling - Setting designated time slots for work, breaks and family time.
Setting time boundaries – Implement clearly defined work hours to avoid excess commitments.
Upskill the right way – Opt for leadership-specific training and certifications and implement flexible learning programs where possible.
So, what about working from home? Is that still an option for accounting professionals?
Gina says, “In this post-COVID era, there is certainly a blend of remote and in-office work. However, the office is reclaiming its role as the primary work hub. With this transition comes the introduction of flexible work arrangements (FWAs). Now, all employers must fairly consider formal requests from employees for FWAs under the new mandatory Tripartite Guidelines on Flexible Work Arrangements (Guidelines).”
Expediting your accounting career progression
When you’re feeling stagnant at work, it’s only natural that you would want to fast-track your career.
Gina says one of the most effective ways to do this is by building your connections.
“Accounting success is multi-dimensional. Of course, you need to focus on upskilling in digital finance and AI accounting tools, however, it’s not just about technical expertise. Networking and learning from industry leaders counts too! I’ve seen firsthand how finding a good mentor and expanding your network can unlock great career opportunities,” she says.
“Mentors can provide informed guidance and industry insights to help you expand your professional opportunities. It’s worth noting that The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) offers mentorship programs connecting aspiring accountants with experienced professionals.”
“Networking groups can also offer similar opportunities by connecting you with peers and senior professionals. By joining things like LinkedIn groups or the Singapore Accountants Community, you can engage in industry discussions while opening yourself up to job opportunities. ISCA networking events are also a highly valuable way to network with potential employers,” she says.
Expert tip: Don’t discount the power of a strong LinkedIn profile. If you want to get noticed by peers and potential employers, take the time to create a strong personal brand. Make your mark by optimising your professional information, engaging with industry content and obtaining recommendations and endorsements from colleagues or mentors.
The accounting field is transforming before our eyes - it’s no surprise that transformation is the gateway to accounting career progression. For mid-career accounting professionals, upskilling and continuous learning are central to breaking free from career stagnation and enjoying lasting career success in the digital age.
Looking for your next accounting opportunity? Let our Robert Half recruiters help you find a job that is right for you.
*Source: Statistics are derived from an online survey conducted by an independent research firm commissioned by Robert Half in November 2024. The survey gathered responses from 300 finance, accounting, financial services, human resources and IT and technology professionals employed by a diverse range of organisations in Singapore, including SMEs and large companies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the career advancement pathways in accounting?
Three of the most common pathways include:
The leadership pathway
The specialisation pathway
The consulting & entrepreneurship pathway
What is the progression of accounting titles?
Below is a snapshot of the general progression of accounting titles (starting from an entry-level position to an executive position):
Management Accountant
Senior Accountant
Accounting / Finance Manager
Finance Controller
Finance Director
CFO
How can you progress as an accountant?
In the digital era, being commercially savvy is key. Having a strong grasp of accounting fundamentals is important, and so too is a solid understanding of business strategy and the ability to translate financial data into actionable insights.
What skills are needed for accounting career advancement?
There are many skills required for accounting career advancement, however, in 2025, emerging skills in data analytics, financial modelling and regulatory compliance can give you a distinct edge over your competitors.
How to get a promotion in accounting?
Much like negotiating your salary, securing a promotion demands a strategic approach. Be sure to:
Know your worth - So you can be confident in your value and make a compelling case.
Prepare for negotiation – Get ready to justify your desired salary through quantifiable evidence.
Master the conversation - Don’t be afraid to leverage scripts or templates tailored for common negotiation scenarios.
Leverage market trends – Find out what is most sought after in the world of accounting and align it with your unique abilities.
What certifications are helpful for accounting career advancement?
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Chartered Accountant (CA)
Certified Financial Analyst (CFA)
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
Certified Tax Practitioner (CTP)
