The Best of Both Worlds: Why a role in Outsourcing is a Game-Changer
For many accountants, deciding between a career in practice or industry can feel like a major crossroads. Practice offers the chance to work with a variety of clients and gain exposure to diverse industries, while industry immerses you in the day-to-day financial operations of a single organisation. Each has its benefits, but what if you didn’t have to choose?
Outsourced finance within a public practice accountancy firm offers a unique career path that blends the best aspects of both worlds. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the variety and structure of practice while gaining the operational depth and hands-on experience typically found in industry. Here’s why this career choice is worth considering.
1. Variety with Real-World Impact
In traditional practice, your role may centre on advising clients and preparing accounts, often stopping short of implementing solutions. In outsourced finance, you take a more active role, working directly with clients to manage their financial processes and operations.
Diverse Industries: From tech start-ups to retail giants and non-profits, you’ll work with clients across multiple sectors, each bringing unique challenges and opportunities.
Hands-On Experience: Go beyond advisory work and get involved in operational processes.
This hands-on approach provides you with a deeper understanding of how businesses function, all while maintaining the variety that keeps your work engaging.
2. A Dynamic and Fast-Paced Role
Outsourced finance thrives on agility. Whether a client is scaling up, pivoting strategies, or navigating financial challenges, you’ll be at the forefront of helping them adapt and succeed.
Problem-Solving Opportunities: Tackle real-world issues, from streamlining financial processes to implementing accounting software.
Continuous Learning: Exposure to different industries and unique challenges ensures no two days are the same.
This dynamic environment keeps you on your toes, making the work exciting and constantly pushing you to grow. It’s a refreshing change from the routine nature of some in-house industry roles.
3. Accelerated Career Growth
Outsourced finance roles often come with significant leadership opportunities, helping you fast-track your career development.
Team Leadership: Manage and coach teams, ensuring high-quality delivery while fostering professional growth in others.
Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with senior stakeholders and clients, honing your communication and decision-making skills.
This combination of technical expertise and people management equips you with the skills needed for senior leadership positions in the future.
4. Technology-Driven Workflows
In outsourced finance, technology plays a key role in delivering efficient and accurate services.
Cutting-Edge Tools: Use cloud accounting platforms, automation software, and ERP systems to streamline processes and improve efficiency.
Future-Proof Skills: Stay ahead of industry trends by gaining expertise in the latest financial technologies.
Tech-driven workflows not only make your work more efficient but also ensure your skillset remains relevant in an ever-evolving field.
5. Flexibility and Work-Life Balance
Outsourced finance often embraces hybrid working models, offering the flexibility many professionals value today.
Hybrid Arrangements: Split your time between the office and remote working, balancing client needs with personal priorities.
Global Reach: Work with clients around the world without leaving your home office.
This flexibility is rare in both traditional practice and industry roles, making outsourced finance an attractive choice for modern accountants.
6. Bridging the Gap Between Practice and Industry
Outsourced finance is not just about numbers—it’s about making a tangible impact. You’ll help clients shape their business strategies through data-driven decisions and robust financial processes.
Strategic Insights: Assist clients with budgeting, forecasting, and navigating complex financial landscapes.
Operational Excellence: Maintain financial controls, ensuring accuracy and compliance across processes.
This role bridges the gap between the strategic focus of practice and the operational demands of industry, giving you the best of both worlds.
Conclusion
Outsourced finance within a public practice accountancy firm offers a dynamic, rewarding career path for accountants who want it all. It combines the variety of working across industries with the depth of managing real-world financial operations, all while offering flexibility, career growth, and exposure to cutting-edge technology.
If you’re looking for a role that challenges, excites, and develops you, outsourced finance could be the perfect fit. It’s more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to make a tangible impact across industries while growing your expertise and leadership skills.
Why settle for one world when you can have the best of both?
