Financial Analysts evaluate financial data, budgets, and market trends to support business decisions, improve financial performance, and ensure strategic alignment. They provide insights on profitability, cost management, and financial planning, helping the organization achieve its financial goals.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Accounting is the process of recording, summarizing, analyzing, and reporting financial transactions of a business or organization. It involves understanding financial statements, principles, and regulations to ensure accurate financial information.
Financial and Investment Analysts utilize accounting skills to interpret financial data, evaluate investment opportunities, analyze financial performance, and create financial models. They rely on accounting knowledge to provide insight into financial health, profitability, and risk assessment of companies or investments.
At a Level 1 proficiency, individuals have a basic understanding of accounting principles, such as debits and credits, financial statements, and basic bookkeeping. They can assist with routine financial tasks and maintain accurate records.
At a Level 2 proficiency, individuals have a deeper understanding of accounting concepts, including financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis. They can prepare complex financial reports, interpret financial data, and contribute to strategic financial decision-making.
At a Level 3 proficiency, individuals possess advanced knowledge of accounting standards, regulations, and reporting requirements. They can perform complex financial modeling, conduct in-depth financial analysis, provide financial guidance to stakeholders, and navigate nuanced financial situations effectively.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Ad Hoc Analysis involves conducting on-the-spot analysis to address specific business questions or issues that arise unexpectedly, without the need for pre-defined reports or templates.
Financial and Investment Analysts use Ad Hoc Analysis to quickly gather, analyze, and interpret financial data and investment information as needed for decision-making, forecasting, risk assessment, and providing insights to stakeholders.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can perform basic ad hoc analysis by utilizing predefined tools and templates to address simple and straightforward business questions or requests.
At Level 2 proficiency, an individual can conduct more complex ad hoc analyses independently by recognizing patterns in data, utilizing advanced statistical methods, and creating customized reports to provide deeper insights and recommendations.
At Level 3 proficiency, an individual is considered an expert in ad hoc analysis, capable of handling highly intricate and urgent analysis requirements, integrating data from multiple sources, applying advanced modeling techniques, and effectively communicating complex findings to diverse audiences.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Analytical Skills involve the ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data in order to understand complex issues, identify patterns, and make informed decisions.
Financial and Investment Analysts heavily rely on analytical skills to evaluate financial information, assess investment opportunities, conduct risk assessments, and provide recommendations to clients or management.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual demonstrates basic analytical skills by being able to organize and structure data, identify simple patterns, and draw straightforward conclusions from the information presented.
At Level 2 proficiency, the individual shows a more advanced ability in analytical skills by effectively analyzing complex financial data, recognizing trends and anomalies, and developing logical and coherent financial models or forecasts based on the analysis.
At Level 3 proficiency, an expert in analytical skills can handle sophisticated financial analyses with a high level of accuracy and efficiency. They excel in synthesizing vast amounts of data, identifying nuanced relationships, and providing strategic insights that drive key financial decisions.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Auditing involves examining and evaluating financial records, statements, and reports to ensure accuracy, compliance, and integrity. It involves assessing the reliability and relevance of financial information to support decision-making processes.
Financial and Investment Analysts utilize auditing skills to review financial data, assess the financial health of companies, detect fraud or errors, ensure compliance with regulations, and provide recommendations for improving financial performance.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can perform basic auditing tasks such as reconciling financial statements, conducting simple risk assessments, and identifying common discrepancies in financial records.
At Level 2 proficiency, a person can conduct comprehensive audits, analyze complex financial data, identify potential financial risks, interpret audit results, and make recommendations for improvements based on audit findings.
At Level 3 proficiency, an individual has mastery in auditing techniques, can lead audit teams, design audit methodologies, provide strategic insights based on audit results, develop internal controls, and ensure regulatory compliance.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Budgeting involves creating detailed financial plans for a defined period, taking into account income and expenses, in order to allocate resources effectively.
Financial and Investment Analysts use budgeting skills to analyze financial data, forecast future financial trends, develop investment strategies, and evaluate the financial performance of companies.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can create basic budgets by outlining simple income and expenditure categories without detailed analysis.
At Level 2 proficiency, a person can develop comprehensive budgets that involve detailed analysis of financial data, variance analysis, and forecasting techniques.
At Level 3 proficiency, a professional can create complex budgets for multiple scenarios, conduct sensitivity analysis, optimize resource allocation, and provide strategic recommendations based on financial insights.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Communication is the ability to convey information clearly and effectively to others through verbal, written, and non-verbal means.
Financial and Investment Analysts need strong communication skills to interpret and present complex financial data, explain investment strategies to clients and stakeholders, write reports, and communicate recommendations to decision-makers.
At Level 1 proficiency, individuals can communicate basic information clearly, but may struggle with conveying complex ideas or engaging in detailed discussions.
At Level 2 proficiency, individuals can effectively communicate complex financial concepts, engage in discussions with clients and colleagues, and tailor their communication style to different audiences.
At Level 3 proficiency, individuals possess exceptional communication skills, able to articulate nuanced financial analysis, negotiate effectively, and influence decisions through persuasive communication.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Corporate Finance involves analyzing financial data, creating financial models, making investment decisions, and managing financial resources within a corporate setting.
Financial and Investment Analysts apply corporate finance skills to conduct financial analysis, assess investment opportunities, evaluate company performance, and provide recommendations to clients or senior management.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can perform basic financial analysis tasks, such as interpreting financial statements, conducting ratio analysis, and understanding fundamental financial concepts.
At Level 2 proficiency, a person can conduct complex financial modeling, evaluate capital budgeting projects, assess risk-return tradeoffs, and provide detailed financial reports and recommendations.
At Level 3 proficiency, a professional demonstrates mastery in corporate finance by executing sophisticated financial analysis, developing comprehensive financial strategies, optimizing capital structure, and providing strategic financial guidance at a senior level.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Economics is the study of how individuals, businesses, and governments make choices when faced with limited resources. It involves analyzing production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services within a market economy.
Financial and Investment Analysts use economics to analyze financial data, market trends, and investment opportunities. They apply economic principles to assess the financial health of companies, industries, and markets, and make recommendations for investment strategies.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can understand basic economic concepts such as supply and demand, opportunity cost, and economic indicators like GDP and inflation. They can apply these concepts in simple analyses.
At Level 2 proficiency, an individual has a deeper understanding of economic theories and models. They can interpret complex economic data, conduct detailed economic analyses, and evaluate economic impacts on financial decisions more effectively.
At Level 3 proficiency, an individual is an expert in economics with advanced knowledge of economic theories, quantitative methods, and financial modeling. They can synthesize and apply economic insights to complex financial and investment scenarios, providing strategic guidance and making high-level decisions.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Financial Data involves the collection, analysis, and interpretation of numerical information related to the financial performance of individuals, companies, or markets. This data can include financial statements, market trends, economic indicators, and other relevant information.
Financial and Investment Analysts rely heavily on financial data to evaluate investment opportunities, assess the financial health of companies, and make recommendations to clients or stakeholders. They use this data to conduct financial modeling, perform valuations, and create reports that guide decision-making.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can understand basic financial concepts and terminology but may lack the ability to analyze complex financial data independently. They may require guidance and supervision when working with financial data.
At Level 2 proficiency, a person has developed the skills to analyze and interpret financial data more independently. They can perform ratio analysis, assess financial statements, and create basic financial models. They possess a solid understanding of financial data sources and methodologies.
At Level 3 proficiency, an individual is an expert in handling financial data. They can conduct sophisticated financial analysis, interpret complex datasets, build advanced financial models, and provide strategic insights based on their findings. They are adept at using various financial analysis tools and techniques.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Financial forecasting involves using historical data and market trends to predict future financial outcomes. It involves analyzing financial statements, economic indicators, and industry trends to make informed projections.
Financial and Investment Analysts heavily rely on financial forecasting to assess investment opportunities, evaluate company performance, and make recommendations to clients or stakeholders. They use these forecasts to identify risks and opportunities, make strategic decisions, and track financial performance.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can understand the basic principles of financial forecasting, such as simple forecasting techniques and basic financial statement analysis. They can interpret historical data but may struggle with complex models and future trend analysis.
A Level 2 proficiency indicates an intermediate level of skill in financial forecasting. Individuals at this level can create and interpret more advanced financial models, conduct sensitivity analysis, and incorporate external factors into their forecasts. They have a deeper understanding of forecasting techniques and financial markets.
At Level 3 proficiency, a person is an expert in financial forecasting. They can develop sophisticated financial models, utilize advanced statistical techniques for forecasting, and effectively communicate complex forecasts to various stakeholders. They possess a comprehensive understanding of financial markets and macroeconomic factors influencing forecasts.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Financial Management involves the planning, organizing, directing, and controlling of financial activities within an organization to achieve financial goals and objectives efficiently.
Financial and Investment Analysts utilize Financial Management skills to analyze financial data, assess the performance of investments, recommend investment strategies, and make financial forecasts and recommendations based on financial analysis.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can demonstrate basic understanding of financial concepts such as budgeting, financial statements, and financial analysis techniques.
At Level 2 proficiency, a person can apply advanced financial management techniques such as risk management, financial modeling, and investment valuation methods to make informed financial decisions.
At Level 3 proficiency, an individual possesses expert-level skills in financial management, including strategic financial planning, capital budgeting, financial risk assessment, and financial performance evaluation.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Financial modeling is the process of creating a representation of a company's financial performance and projecting future financial performance based on historical data and assumptions.
Financial and Investment Analysts use financial modeling to evaluate investment opportunities, assess the financial health of companies, conduct valuation analyses, and make informed recommendations to clients or stakeholders.
At Level 1 proficiency in financial modeling, an individual can create basic financial models using Excel, understand key financial statements, and perform simple forecasting.
At Level 2 proficiency, a person can build complex financial models with multiple scenarios, conduct sensitivity analysis, interpret the implications of different assumptions on financial outcomes, and apply advanced Excel functions and shortcuts to enhance model efficiency.
At Level 3 proficiency, an individual is considered an expert in financial modeling, capable of developing dynamic and robust models that incorporate complex financial concepts, industry trends, and macroeconomic factors. They have mastered advanced modeling techniques, are skilled in using specialized financial modeling software, and can effectively communicate complex financial analyses to various stakeholders.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Financial Planning involves analyzing current financial situations, setting financial goals, and developing strategies to achieve those goals. It includes budgeting, investing, saving, and managing financial risks.
Financial and Investment Analysts utilize financial planning to assess the financial health of organizations or individuals, provide investment recommendations, evaluate risks, and create financial forecasts. They use financial planning to make informed decisions on investment opportunities and financial strategies.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can create basic personal budgets, understand the concept of saving and investing, and identify common financial risks.
At Level 2 proficiency, a person can develop comprehensive financial plans for individuals or organizations, assess more complex investment options, and conduct detailed financial analysis to support decision-making.
At Level 3 proficiency, a professional can handle intricate financial scenarios, conduct in-depth financial modeling, provide advanced investment advice, and effectively manage complex financial portfolios.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Financial Statements are formal records of the financial activities and position of a business, person, or other entity. They typically include a balance sheet, income statement, statement of cash flows, and statement of changes in equity.
Financial and Investment Analysts use their understanding of financial statements to analyze the financial health and performance of companies. They evaluate the company's profitability, liquidity, solvency, and overall financial stability based on these statements.
At Level 1 proficiency, individuals can read and interpret basic financial statements. They can identify key elements such as revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities, and equity.
At Level 2 proficiency, individuals can perform ratio analysis, trend analysis, and comparative analysis using financial statements. They can analyze the relationships between different financial statement items to draw conclusions about the company's financial performance.
At Level 3 proficiency, individuals possess advanced financial modeling skills. They can create detailed financial models using historical financial statements to make projections and forecasts about the company's future performance.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Financial Systems involve the understanding and utilization of software and processes that manage financial information within an organization.
Financial and Investment Analysts use financial systems to analyze and interpret financial data, create financial models, perform forecasting and budgeting, conduct financial research, and generate reports for decision-making purposes.
At the Level 1 proficiency, an individual would be able to navigate basic financial systems, input data accurately, and run standard reports.
At the Level 2 proficiency, a professional can customize financial system settings, perform data analysis to identify trends, troubleshoot basic issues, and contribute to process improvements within the financial systems.
At the Level 3 proficiency, an expert in financial systems can integrate various financial systems, design complex financial models, implement advanced data analytics techniques, lead system upgrades and integrations, and provide strategic insights based on financial data.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Forecasting involves using historical data and trends to make informed predictions or estimates about future events or outcomes.
Financial and Investment Analysts use forecasting to predict financial market trends, analyze investment opportunities, assess risks, and make recommendations for investment decisions.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can perform basic trend analysis using historical data to make simple forecasts with guidance and supervision.
At Level 2 proficiency, a worker can independently conduct in-depth financial analysis, utilize advanced forecasting techniques, and interpret complex data to generate accurate predictions.
At Level 3 proficiency, a worker is considered an expert in forecasting, capable of developing sophisticated financial models, scenario analyses, and risk assessments to provide strategic insights and recommendations for complex financial decisions.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Investments involve the allocation of funds into financial instruments such as stocks, bonds, real estate, and other assets with the expectation of generating a return in the form of income or capital appreciation.
Financial and Investment Analysts utilize the skill of investments to research and analyze market trends, economic data, and company financials to make informed recommendations on where to invest funds for individuals or organizations to achieve their financial goals.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual is able to understand basic investment concepts such as risk and return, asset classes, and investment strategies. They may be able to follow market trends but require guidance in making investment decisions.
At Level 2 proficiency, an individual demonstrates a deeper understanding of investment analysis techniques, valuation methods, portfolio management strategies, and risk assessment. They can independently analyze investment opportunities and construct diversified portfolios.
At Level 3 proficiency, an individual has mastered advanced quantitative and qualitative investment analysis techniques. They are adept at sophisticated financial modeling, scenario analysis, and can effectively navigate complex investment landscapes to generate optimal returns while managing risk.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Leadership involves the ability to inspire, motivate, and guide a team towards achieving common goals. It includes effective communication, decision-making, delegation, and conflict resolution skills.
Financial and Investment Analysts need strong leadership skills to oversee projects, collaborate with team members, provide guidance on financial strategies, and communicate complex information to stakeholders.
At Level 1, a worker with basic leadership skills can follow instructions, work independently on simple tasks, and participate in team activities with minimal leadership responsibilities.
At Level 2, a worker with intermediate leadership skills can take on leadership roles within a team, delegate tasks effectively, communicate clearly with team members, and contribute to decision-making processes.
At Level 3, an expert in leadership can lead complex projects, inspire and mentor team members, navigate challenging situations with ease, and drive innovation within the team.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Microsoft Excel is a powerful spreadsheet program developed by Microsoft, commonly used for organizing, analyzing, and visualizing data. It offers a wide range of functions and features to manipulate numerical data efficiently.
Financial and Investment Analysts heavily rely on Microsoft Excel for financial modeling, data analysis, forecasting, and creating reports. They use Excel to analyze financial data, build financial models, create charts and graphs to present findings, and perform various calculations.
At Level 1 proficiency, the individual can navigate Excel interface, perform basic tasks like data entry, formatting cells, and simple calculations. They are familiar with basic functions such as SUM, AVERAGE, and can create simple charts.
At Level 2 proficiency, the individual can utilize more advanced functions like VLOOKUP, IF statements, pivot tables, and data validation. They can work with large datasets, conduct financial analysis, create complex models, and customize reports effectively.
At Level 3 proficiency, the individual is an expert in Excel, proficient in writing complex macros using VBA (Visual Basic for Applications), performing advanced financial modeling, scenario analysis, sensitivity analysis, and building dynamic dashboards.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Microsoft PowerPoint is a presentation software developed by Microsoft that allows users to create slideshows for various purposes, such as business presentations, educational lectures, and informational sessions.
Financial and Investment Analysts utilize Microsoft PowerPoint to create visually appealing and informative presentations to communicate financial data, investment recommendations, market analysis, and reports to clients, senior management, and other stakeholders.
At Level 1 proficiency, a user can create basic PowerPoint presentations with simple slides, text, and images. They can navigate the interface, add and format text, insert basic shapes, and apply standard themes and layouts.
At Level 2 proficiency, a user is adept at creating more advanced presentations with multimedia elements, animations, and transitions. They can design cohesive and professional-looking slides, customize templates, insert charts and graphs, and incorporate multimedia content effectively.
At Level 3 proficiency, a user is an expert in leveraging the full potential of PowerPoint. They can create complex presentations with intricate designs, interactive elements, advanced animations, and custom macros. They have a deep understanding of slide master settings, custom layouts, advanced chart customizations, and use PowerPoint for sophisticated data visualization.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Month-End Closing involves the process of completing all financial activities, such as reconciliations, journal entries, adjustments, and financial report preparations, at the end of the month to ensure accurate and up-to-date financial records.
Financial and Investment Analysts utilize Month-End Closing skills to ensure that all financial data is accurately recorded and reported for analysis, decision-making, and compliance purposes. They are responsible for reviewing and analyzing financial statements and performance metrics that are prepared as part of the month-end closing process.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual would be able to assist in basic month-end closing activities under supervision. This may involve tasks such as data entry, basic reconciliations, and supporting documentation preparation.
At Level 2 proficiency, a worker would be able to independently handle all aspects of the month-end closing process, including more complex reconciliations, journal entries, and analysis of financial data. They can troubleshoot discrepancies and ensure the accuracy of financial reports.
At Level 3 proficiency, an individual would be considered an expert in Month-End Closing. They not only perform the tasks with precision but also improve and streamline the closing process by implementing best practices, automation, and advanced analytical techniques.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Operations involves managing processes and systems to ensure efficiency and effectiveness within an organization.
Financial and Investment Analysts utilize operations skills to analyze operational efficiency, identify areas for improvement, and make recommendations to streamline processes and optimize resources.
At Level 1 proficiency, one can understand basic operational concepts and identify inefficiencies within existing processes.
At Level 2 proficiency, one can analyze operational data, develop strategies to improve efficiency, and implement process enhancements effectively.
At Level 3 proficiency, one can lead operational initiatives, optimize complex processes, and drive organizational efficiency through strategic planning and implementation.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Portfolio Management involves the management and analysis of an individual's or organization's investment portfolio. It includes asset allocation, risk management, performance evaluation, and strategic decision-making to optimize the portfolio's returns.
Financial and Investment Analysts use Portfolio Management to assess and manage the investment portfolios of clients or organizations. They analyze financial data, market trends, and economic indicators to make informed decisions on buying, selling, or holding investments.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can demonstrate a basic understanding of Portfolio Management concepts such as asset allocation and risk assessment.
At Level 2 proficiency, the individual can effectively apply Portfolio Management strategies to optimize investment portfolios, conduct in-depth analysis, and evaluate performance metrics.
At Level 3 proficiency, the individual is considered an expert in Portfolio Management, capable of developing complex investment strategies, managing large and diverse portfolios, and providing strategic recommendations based on in-depth analysis.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Power BI is a business analytics tool developed by Microsoft that enables users to visualize and share insights from their data. It allows users to create interactive reports and dashboards with a variety of data sources.
Financial and Investment Analysts use Power BI to gather, analyze, and present financial data effectively. They can create dynamic reports, perform trend analysis, and communicate financial insights to stakeholders.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can navigate the Power BI interface, import data from basic sources, create simple visualizations, and perform basic data analysis tasks.
At Level 2 proficiency, a user can create complex data models, write advanced DAX (Data Analysis Expressions) formulas, design interactive dashboards, and integrate data from multiple sources within Power BI.
At Level 3 proficiency, a user is considered an expert in Power BI. They can automate data refresh processes, optimize data models for performance, implement advanced data visualization techniques, and deploy Power BI solutions for enterprise-wide use.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Presentations involve the delivery of information, ideas, or data to an audience in a structured and engaging manner. This skill encompasses creating slides, organizing content, and effectively communicating key points.
Financial and Investment Analysts frequently utilize presentations to communicate financial analysis findings, investment recommendations, market insights, and performance reports to clients, colleagues, and stakeholders. Strong presentation skills are crucial for effectively conveying complex financial information in a clear and compelling manner.
At Level 1 proficiency, a worker may be able to create basic presentations using common tools such as PowerPoint or Google Slides. They can outline key points but may struggle with organizing content cohesively or delivering presentations confidently.
At Level 2 proficiency, an individual can create polished and professional presentations with visually appealing slides and well-structured content. They are adept at incorporating data visualizations and graphics to enhance the presentation's impact. Additionally, they can deliver presentations with clarity and engage the audience effectively.
At Level 3 proficiency, a worker demonstrates expert-level presentation skills. They excel in creating dynamic and persuasive presentations that captivate the audience. This includes advanced techniques such as storytelling, incorporating interactive elements, and adapting presentations to different audience demographics.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Research involves gathering information, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions based on evidence to answer questions or solve problems.
Financial and Investment Analysts utilize research skills to gather and analyze financial data, market trends, economic indicators, and company information to make informed investment decisions and recommendations.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can conduct basic research tasks such as collecting data from available sources and organizing information for review.
At Level 2 proficiency, a person can independently conduct thorough research, evaluate the credibility of sources, and synthesize complex information to identify investment opportunities and risks.
At Level 3 proficiency, an individual has mastered advanced research techniques, such as predictive modeling, scenario analysis, and forecasting, to provide strategic insights and recommendations for optimizing investment portfolios.
Skill trends based on publicly-available nationwide job advertisement data.
Variance analysis is the process of comparing actual financial results to budgeted or expected figures in order to understand discrepancies or variances and their underlying causes.
Financial and Investment Analysts utilize variance analysis to evaluate the performance of investments, assess the financial health of companies, and make informed recommendations to stakeholders based on the insights gained from analyzing discrepancies between expected and actual outcomes.
At Level 1 proficiency, an individual can understand the basic concept of variance analysis and identify variances between actual and budgeted numbers. They may require guidance in interpreting the implications of these variances.
At Level 2 proficiency, a person can conduct variance analysis independently, interpret the reasons behind variances, and make initial recommendations based on their analysis. They have the ability to communicate findings effectively to stakeholders.
At Level 3 proficiency, an individual is an expert in variance analysis, possessing advanced analytical skills to not only identify and explain variances comprehensively but also proactively suggest and implement strategies to optimize performance based on the insights gained.