For mid-to-senior level finance professionals aiming to progress, understanding the landscape of the highest paying finance jobs is critical. Whether you're a Director looking to pivot, a VP considering your next step, or a seasoned finance leader exploring high-growth markets, your salary reflects your expertise, risk, responsibility, and value to the business.

From investment banking salaries to leadership roles in risk and compliance, explore what’s driving compensation, what skills are in demand, and how to position yourself to secure a role at the highest level.

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It’s no surprise that investment banking sits at the top when discussing the highest paying finance jobs. Even early in their careers, professionals in this sector command impressive pay. The average investment banking analyst salary starts around £63,000 and can grow significantly with experience and performance-based bonuses.

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At the senior level, total compensation, including bonuses, can far exceed £300,000. A Finance Director in investment banking typically earns £120,000 to £250,000, with CFOs reaching up to £400,000.

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In private equity, where agility and performance are prized, Fund Accounting professionals can earn £100,000–£150,000 with over 8 years’ post-qualification experience. Investment Directors can see even higher compensation, particularly in firms with aggressive carry structures or profit-sharing schemes.

As regulatory expectations tighten, Risk and Compliance professionals are more critical than ever. Professionals looking to access these roles often have a strong foundation in law, audit, or operations, and have cultivated a sharp awareness of both regulatory and commercial priorities. Heads of Risk and Heads of Compliance in banking now routinely earn between £120,000 and £200,000, with additional performance-related compensation.

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What drives these higher salaries?
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• Deep understanding of evolving regulatory frameworks

• Proven track records in navigating risk through market volatility

• Strategic input into business continuity and governance
  

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Across industries, Finance Directors and Chief Financial Officers consistently rank among the best paying jobs in finance. The scope of these roles, often spanning financial strategy, investor relations, capital structure, and M&A, justifies their premium pay. For instance, in hedge funds, asset management, and infrastructure investment, the typical range for a CFO is £180,000 to £400,000, while Finance Directors can earn between £120,000 and £250,000.

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Key drivers of salary at this level include:
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• Sector expertise and technical competence

• Ability to lead and restructure teams

• A proven ability to influence board-level decisions and drive growth

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While often less visible than front-office roles, leadership positions in Treasury and FP&A (Financial Planning & Analysis) are among the best finance jobs for long-term progression and competitive compensation.

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Heads of FP&A with over 8 years’ PQE earn between £100,000 and £150,000. Group Treasurers and senior Treasury professionals at the same level see salaries north of £120,000, often with bonuses tied to liquidity and capital optimisation outcomes.

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These roles demand sharp commercial acumen, forecasting ability, and strategic decision-making. As more businesses focus on cash flow, cost control, and scenario planning, experienced professionals in these areas are becoming increasingly valuable.

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With regulation intensifying across finance, Regulatory Reporting roles are becoming both essential and well-compensated. Senior regulatory accountants with 5–8 years' PQE are commanding salaries of £90,000–£130,000, while those at Head of level or with 8+ years of experience can earn upwards of £150,000. This is especially true in banks, insurance firms, and investment houses, where staying compliant with PRA, FCA, and global requirements like Basel III is business critical.

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Looking for deeper insights into the salary trends behind the highest paying roles in finance and banking? Download our Banking & Financial Services Salary Guide.

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While base salary is often the headline figure in any job offer, many of the highest paying finance jobs come with a wide range of additional benefits and incentives that significantly enhance the overall package. Here’s what else to consider:
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• Bonuses and Performance Incentives
  Most senior finance roles include substantial incentives, typically tied to individual, team, and company performance, and in some cases, these can exceed base compensation.
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• Equity, Profit Sharing and LTIPs
  Increasingly common, particularly in private equity, fintech, and listed businesses. These align contributions with business growth and can result in significant returns over time.
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• Flexible Working and Hybrid Options
  Now a standard expectation in the market. Remote-first or hybrid models make it easier to balance high-pressure work with personal commitments.
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• Pension and Private Healthcare
  Robust employer pension contributions, private medical cover (often extended to families), and life insurance are commonly offered at mid-to-senior levels.
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• Professional Development and Mobility
  Many firms will fund exam fees and provide study leave. International secondments, internal promotions, or lateral moves are also options for high performers.  
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To access the highest paying finance jobs, professionals need a blend of strategic impact, technical depth, and leadership capability. Here's how to get on the right trajectory and stand out in today’s market:
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1. Specialise Early
   Niche areas like private equity, regulatory reporting, or treasury can offer greater pay growth than generalist paths. Early specialisation allows you to build deeper technical knowledge, develop credibility in your field, and become indispensable to employers seeking rare skill sets.
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2. Gain Cross-Functional Exposure
   Roles that straddle commercial finance, risk, and operations often lead to board-level visibility. These hybrid roles broaden your commercial understanding and position you as a key internal adviser. By engaging with stakeholders across departments, you become more visible to executive leadership, which can lead to faster promotions, more influence on decision-making, and access to roles with larger remits.
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3. Invest in Ongoing Qualifications
   Earning or maintaining recognised qualifications such as the ACA, ACCA, CFA, or completing an MBA can significantly enhance your credibility, marketability, and access to higher-paying roles.
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4. Work with a Recruiter Who Knows Your Market
   An experienced recruiter with deep knowledge of your sector can be invaluable. They can connect you with the most relevant opportunities and advise on how to best position your profile. For senior roles, where discretion and negotiation are essential, having someone who understands the nuances of your market makes a significant difference.

If you're ready to explore your next opportunity or benchmark your current role against the highest paying finance jobs in the market speak to our team today. At Goodman Masson, we partner with finance professionals to power progress and unlock potential at every stage of their career.
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Contact us now to take the next step in your finance journey.