FP&A Roles in Financial Services

Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) roles, including those of Finance Business Partners, offer ACA-qualified professionals the chance to move into strategic and commercially focused finance. These positions provide a unique blend of analysis, forecasting, and cross-functional collaboration, supporting critical decision-making within Financial Services businesses.

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Explore FP&A Roles in Industry & Commerce

Explore FP&A Roles in Public Sector, Housing & Charity Coming soon

Key Insights

FP&A continues to be a high-growth area across the Financial Services sector with roles increasing positioned as key decision-support functions across the banking, insurance, and fintech sectors.

£60k–£70k

Typical salary range for newly qualified financial accountants in London-based Financial Services firms.

Over 50% of ACA-qualified professionals

Say commercial exposure is a key driver in their first move post-qualification.

Role Responsibilities

FP&A Analysts develop forecasts, budgets, and financial models to support business planning. Finance Business Partners collaborate with departments across the organisation, providing insights that shape strategic and operational decisions. Both these roles are fast-paced, data-driven, and business-critical.

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Qualifications and Skills

If you are considering an FP&A role, you’ll need some essential analytical skills to sit alongside your ACA qualification. Depending on the role, employers will be looking for:

Financial modelling and analysis
Strong commercial and business acumen
Communication and stakeholder management
Experience with advanced Excel and financial planning tools

Where This Role Can Take You

Financial Planning and Analysis is a natural pathway to senior commercial roles such as Head of FP&A or CFO.

These roles also provide excellent preparation for broader leadership roles in finance, strategy, or operations.

Career Resources

Explore advice and insights tailored to ACA professionals building a career in FP&A.

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FP&A Roles in Industry & Commerce

In the Industry & Commerce sectors, Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) roles provide ACA-qualified professionals with commercial exposure, analytical challenge, and the chance to directly influence business strategy. These positions are essential for performance management and long-term planning in consumer-facing sectors.

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Explore FP&A Roles in Financial Services

Explore FP&A Roles in Public Sector, Housing & Charity Coming soon

Key Insights

Commercial finance teams are expanding in response to rapid growth and transformation. Retail, tech, FMCG, and healthcare companies are consistently seeking ACA-qualified talent.

£60k–£75k

Typical salary for newly qualified FP&A professionals in commercial organisations.

Role Responsibilities

FP&A professionals play a key role in strategic decision-making and budget control. FP&A Analysts build budgets and forecasts, deliver performance reporting, and provide insights that shape strategic decisions.

Finance Business Partners work closely with operational leaders to drive efficiency and profitability.

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Qualifications & Skills

Alongside an AQA qualification, employers hiring for analyst and business partners roles in FP&A will be looking for candidates with an aptitude for:

Financial modelling and analysis
Budgeting and planning skills
Commercial awareness
Effective communication

Where This Role Can Take You

FP&A and business partnering roles offer a clear pathway to senior commercial finance leadership.

These roles will also help you to develop the strategic capabilities valued in transformation and operational roles.

Career Resources

Explore advice and insights tailored to ACA professionals building a career in FP&A.

Industry & Commerce

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Start Your Journey Today

Find your next ACA role or speak with us about your ACA career journey.

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Financial Accountant Roles
in Financial Services

Financial accounting roles, including Group Accountants and Financial Reporting Accountants, are a key entry point for ACA-qualified professionals moving into Financial Services.