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Financial Analyst

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A Financial Analyst in the UK is responsible for researching financial information, preparing reports, and providing recommendations to help businesses and individuals make investment decisions. They analyse financial data, study market trends, and assess the performance of stocks, bonds, and other investments. Financial Analysts often work for banks, investment firms, insurance companies, or large corporations. The role requires strong numerical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate findings clearly to clients or management. Many Financial Analysts hold degrees in finance, economics, mathematics, or related subjects, and professional qualifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation can be beneficial.

Financial Analyst

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

The average salary for a Financial Analyst in the UK is between £30,000 and £50,000 per year, with senior roles earning up to £70,000 or more.

Job Openings

There are approximately 15,000 Financial Analyst positions advertised annually in the UK, according to job market data.

Typical Working Hours

Financial Analysts usually work standard office hours, around 37 to 40 hours per week, but may need to work longer hours during busy periods.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Investment Analyst

Works for investment firms or banks to research financial markets, analyse investment opportunities, and make recommendations on stocks, bonds, or other assets.

Corporate Finance Analyst

Focuses on helping companies with budgeting, forecasting, and evaluating new business projects or mergers to guide important financial decisions.

Credit Analyst

Assesses the creditworthiness of individuals or companies applying for loans by analysing financial statements and economic trends.

Achieve Academic Qualifications

Complete GCSEs and A-Levels

Gain good grades in GCSEs, particularly in Maths and English, and pursue A-Levels in subjects like Mathematics, Economics, or Business Studies.

Having strong academic qualifications is essential for entry into finance-related degrees. A-Levels in maths-based subjects will provide you with the analytical skills needed for further study. Universities often look for high grades in relevant subjects when considering applicants for finance or economics courses.

Earn a Relevant Degree

Apply for and complete a university degree in Finance, Economics, Business, Mathematics, or a related subject.

Most financial analyst roles require at least a 2:1 (upper second-class) degree in a relevant field. Courses typically cover topics such as accounting, financial markets, and quantitative analysis, all crucial for this career. Some universities offer work placements or internships as part of the course, which can provide valuable experience.

Develop Financial Skills and Experience

Gain Work Experience or Internship

Apply for internships, work placements, or part-time roles in finance-related organisations during or after your studies.

Internships are highly valued by employers and offer practical experience, networking opportunities, and a chance to develop skills such as financial modelling and analysis. Many investment banks, financial firms, and large corporations offer summer internships for students.

Learn Financial Analysis Tools

Familiarise yourself with financial software such as Excel, Bloomberg, or other analytical tools used in the industry.

Financial analysts rely on various software for data analysis and reporting. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel is often a basic requirement, while knowledge of more advanced tools like Bloomberg Terminal or data visualisation software can set you apart from other candidates.

Secure a Financial Analyst Role

Apply for Entry-Level Analyst Positions

Search for and apply to entry-level financial analyst jobs in banks, investment firms, corporate finance departments, or consultancy companies.

Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant education, skills, and any work experience. Be prepared for competency-based interviews and assessments focusing on your analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Work Towards Professional Qualifications

Consider studying for professional qualifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) certifications.

Professional qualifications can enhance your career prospects and credibility. The CFA programme is highly respected and involves passing three levels of exams covering investment management, financial analysis, and ethical standards. CISI qualifications are widely recognised in the UK finance sector.

🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Financial Analyst. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

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Career Progressions

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Sample Qualifications

A Financial Analyst and an Investment Analyst both focus on analysing financial data to support investment decisions, requiring strong quantitative skills and knowledge of financial markets. Their roles are closely aligned in terms of qualifications and the core competencies needed to evaluate financial performance and advise on investments.

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • a graduate training scheme

University

You'll usually need a degree at upper second class or higher. Most degree subjects are accepted, but you may find these particularly useful:

  • economics
  • maths
  • business studies
  • accountancy
  • finance

If your degree is not related to business or finance, you could do a relevant postgraduate qualification like a master's in business administration (MBA).

A course with a placement year or a summer internship with give you valuable experience and an advantage when applying for work.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths
  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

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Apprenticeship

You can get into this job through a senior investment and commercial banking professional degree apprenticeship. This is at level 7, which is equivalent to a master's qualification.

This will usually take about 18 to 24 months to complete. You will take professional exams as part of the apprenticeship and at the end you will be able to apply for membership of the relevant professional body.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

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Other Routes

You could start as a graduate trainee in an investment bank or a stockbroking firm. Trainees must pass an exam that is recognised by the Financial Conduct Authority. These include:

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Career tips

You may find it useful to have knowledge of a specific industry for some jobs, for example experience in areas like energy, engineering or life sciences could be helpful.

Language skills, particularly French, German or Japanese, can also be useful if you're working with overseas clients and markets.

Professional and industry bodies

You could join organisations like the CFA Institute and Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment for professional recognition and training opportunities.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming an investment analyst from:

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