Launch Your Accounting Career in Switzerland’s Thriving Financial Sector: Everything You Need to Know

What is the Accounting job?

Are you a numbers enthusiast looking to kickstart your career in accounting? Accounting jobs in Switzerland offer a unique blend of professional growth, cultural exposure, and competitive remuneration. You'll not only gain invaluable experience but also enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Switzerland's picturesque landscapes during your downtime.

But it's not just about crunching numbers. As an accountant in Switzerland, you'll get to work with diverse teams, navigate complex financial landscapes, and contribute to business strategies.

What to expect in an Accounting career?

Primarily, you will be responsible for preparing and examining financial records, ensuring their accuracy and compliance with local laws and regulations. You will be tasked with performing overviews of the financial operations of a business in order to help it run efficiently. 

Your daily tasks may include 

• organizing and maintaining financial records, 
• improving businesses' efficiency where money is concerned, 
• suggesting ways to reduce costs, 
• enhance revenues, 
• and improve profits.

You'll also be responsible for preparing tax returns and ensuring that taxes are paid properly and on time. This includes evaluating tax regulations, advising clients on tax issues and strategies, and staying up-to-date with industry trends and changes in Swiss tax laws.

What are the myths about Accounting jobs?

1. Myth: All Accounting Jobs are the Same. Wrong! The field of accounting is diverse and offers a wide range of roles, from tax specialists to financial analysts. Each role requires different skills and expertise. 

2. Myth: Accounting Jobs are Boring and Monotonous. Wrong, too: Accounting jobs can be dynamic and challenging, especially in Switzerland's competitive business environment. Accountants often work on strategic planning, financial forecasting, and risk management – tasks that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills. 

3. Myth: You Need an Accounting Degree to Get an Accounting Job in Switzerland. “It depends”: While having an accounting degree can certainly help, many companies value experience and relevant certifications just as much as formal education.

What are the competencies required for an Accounting role?

1. Proficiency in Accounting Principles: A deep understanding of accounting principles and practices is essential for any accounting job. This includes knowledge of financial reporting, tax preparation, auditing, and other key areas of accounting. 

2. Familiarity with Swiss Regulations: Since the job is based in Switzerland, familiarity with Swiss financial regulations and laws is crucial. This includes understanding the country's tax system, banking laws, and other relevant regulations. 

3. Expertise in Financial Software: Proficiency in using financial software tools such as QuickBooks, SAP, or other accounting systems is a must. This also includes being comfortable with Excel or similar spreadsheet programs for data analysis. 

4. Analytical Skills: Accountants need to have strong analytical skills to interpret complex financial data and make informed decisions. This includes problem-solving abilities and attention to detail. 

What qualities are required of an Accountant?

1. Attention to Detail: This shouldn’t come as a surprise… Accounting jobs require a high level of precision. Every digit and decimal matters, so an accountant must be meticulous and detail-oriented. 

2. Analytical Skills: Accountants need to be able to analyze numbers and financial data for discrepancies or inaccuracies, as well as interpret complex financial information. 

3. Integrity: Accountants deal with sensitive financial information, so they must be trustworthy and uphold the highest ethical standards. 

4. Communication Skills: This may be non-intuitive. Yet, strong written and verbal communication skills are important for accountants, too. They effectively need to convey complex financial information to non-financial colleagues or clients.

What is the future of Accounting?

With a myriad of opportunities in accounting, you can take your career to new heights while enjoying the unparalleled quality of life that Switzerland offers. These are the industry trends ahead:

1. Technological Advancements: Yes, also in accounting there is no break from tech disruption. The increasing use of automation, artificial intelligence, and advanced software in accounting will change traditional practices, making proficiency in these technologies essential for accounting professionals.
2. Regulatory and Compliance Expertise: As financial regulations continue to evolve, there will be a growing demand for accountants skilled in compliance and regulatory matters, particularly in areas like tax law, international financial reporting standards, and anti-money laundering regulations.
3. Shift towards Advisory Roles: The role of accountants is expected to shift more towards advisory services, with a focus on providing strategic financial advice, business planning, and consulting, beyond traditional accounting tasks.

How to best start a career in Accounting?

By now, you know you want to dive into the world of debits and credits (sorry, our copywriter couldn’t leave that pun out!) in one of the world's most stable economies. But how to best get started?

1. Education: While we are a big advocates for results over degrees. Degrees and certifications in accounting or finance are crucial and foundational for understanding accounting principles, practices, and the Swiss law in which you are operating. The most commonly recognized and sought-after qualification is the Swiss Certified Public Accountant. This certification is tailored to Swiss law and practices. Also have a look at ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants): ACCA is internationally recognized and is one of the more prevalent qualifications in Europe for accountants. It is well-regarded in Switzerland, especially in international companies, and is known for its focus on IFRS and global accounting practices.
2. Internships and Practical Experience: If you're new to the field, seek internships in accounting firms or finance departments. This hands-on experience is invaluable for gaining a real-world understanding of accounting roles and responsibilities.
3. Professional Networking: Engage in industry events, conferences, and workshops. These are excellent opportunities to connect with accounting professionals, learn about the latest industry trends, and discover potential job openings.

How to find the best Accounting jobs that suit you?

To find the best entry or mid-level accounting jobs in Switzerland, focus on these top three approaches:

1. Utilize Job Search Platforms: Selfishly, let us recommend to have a look at our bespoke selection of job openings. You can filter them by your criteria of importance. And of course, regularly check Swiss job portals like Jobscout24.ch, Jobs.ch, LinkedIn, and Indeed, using specific keywords related to accounting and your experience level.
2. Tailored Applications and Preparation: Customize your resume and cover letter for each job application, emphasizing relevant accounting skills and experiences. Also, prepare thoroughly for interviews, focusing on accounting principles and practices.
3. Networking and Professional Connections: This one is huge. Build a professional network through platforms like LinkedIn, attend industry events and seminars, and engage with accounting associations in Switzerland. Networking can often lead to opportunities and valuable industry insights.

Click here to explore junior accounting positions in Switzerland now and take the first step towards an exciting and rewarding career. We are rooting for you!