Accounting CV: Examples and 25+ Writing Tips (2023)

This accounting CV sample shows you know an asset class from your elbow.

The secret?

Most accountant CVs aren’t worth the paper they’re printed on. They waste space promoting the wrong things.

Cite the right achievements the right way and you’ll glitter like Deloitte

This guide will show you:

  • Accounting CV examples better than most.
  • How to nail your accountant job description on a CV.
  • How to write a staff accountant CV that gets the interview.
  • Why choosing the right few accounting accomplishments gets the job.

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Accounting CV: Examples and 25+ Writing Tips (1)

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Looking for other finance CV writing guides? Have a look at these:

  • Accounts Payable Specialist CV
  • Accounts Receivable Specialist CV
  • Bank Teller CV
  • Bookkeeper CV
  • Business Analyst CV
  • Data Analyst CV
  • Entry-Level Business Analyst CV
  • Financial Advisor CV
  • Investment Banker CV
  • Financial Analyst CV
  • Accounting Assistant CV

Haven't found what you're looking for? Check all ourCV Samples.

Accounting CV Example

Theola Seaton
Chartered Accountant

Phone: 07751 100 504
Email: theolaseaton@gmail.com
linkedin.com/in/theolaseaton
twitter.com/theolaseaton

Summary:

Senior accountant with 8+ years of experience at MasterCard and Honda. Seeking to use proven budgeting skills to boost efficiency for Hilton. Saved £1.5 M a year at MasterCard by fixing a recurring budget problem. Saved £1 M a year at Honda through detailed cost analysis.

Certifications

  • ACCA

Experience

Senior Accountant
MasterCard Incorporated
2013–2018

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  • Provided accounting support for monthly closing process.
  • Increased adoption of accounting data security best practises to save 700 hours per year, saving £700,000 annually company-wide.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to facilitate reporting. Slashed 20% from time to complete month-end reconciliation.
  • Identified & fixed recurring problem, saving £1.5 million a year.

Accountant
Honda
2011–2013

  • Supported budget reporting and financial reporting process.
  • Performed detailed cost analysis that led to saving £1 million annually.
  • Used account analysis to identify opportunities to cut variable costs 15%.
  • Implemented rolling forecasts and budgets to better align plans with budgets. Increased budgeting efficiency 15% and cut costs 18%.

Accounting Experience

Various
2010–2011

  • Worked as accounting consultant for local veterinary practise.
  • Prepared 18 tax returns for individuals and couples.
  • Facilitated Quickbooks improvements for hardware business.

Education

MBA, University of London
2006–2010

  • Pursued a passion for accounting classes.
  • Excelled in financial accounting coursework.
  • Completed Senior Excellence project in budgeting.

Additional Activities

  • Member, ACCA, AFWA.
  • Accounting volunteer, Willey Swamp Learning Coop.
  • Teach biweekly yoga classes as self-care.

Foreign Languages

  • Italian—proficient

Publications

  • 2017 Article on month-end-closing published in AICPA Insights.
  • 2016 Article on financial statements appeared in Forbes.

Now here’s how to write an accounting CV:

1. Select the Right Accounting CV Format

Bottom line:

The wrong accounting CV format shows you don’t know FE from VE.

Here's how to format your CV:

  • Choose reverse-chronological CV format. It leads with your most recent wins.
  • Use the best CV fonts, 10–14pt, 1-inch margins, big headings, and white space.
  • Make a one page CV unless you’ve been at it longer than PWC.
  • Your CV header should have name, phone number, email address, social media links. No snail mail, no photo.
  • Next, put your accounting CV objective then work experience and education.
  • Add CV extras like professional associations, certifications, publications, additional activities, or evenhobbies and interests(if relevant) to make your staff accountant CV turn heads.

Expert Hint: Use aCV PDF unless the job offer rules against them. Why? PDFs don’t get creative in transit and they’re machine-readable in 2018.

2. Acid Test Your Accounting CV Objective

How do you start?

Write a high-value CV objective (or CV summary).

It should show employers you aren’t cooking the books.

Include:

1. One adjective (exacting, efficient, hard-working)

2. Job title (Accountant, Chartered Accountant)

3. Years of experience (2+, 6+)

4. How you’ll help (manage accounting operations)

5. Flashiest achievements (found recurring problem that saved £1.5 million annually)

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These two accounting CV examples show accepted principles:

Senior accountant with 8+ years of experience at MasterCard and Honda. Seeking to use proven budgeting skills to boost efficiency for Hilton. Saved £1.5 M a year at MasterCard by fixing a recurring budgeting problem. Saved £1 M a year at Honda through detailed cost analysis.
Energetic, exacting, senior accountant with 8 years of experience, seeking position with a forward-thinking firm. Highly skilled in budgeting and month-end-close process, plus financial statements, regulatory filings and asset management, with strong IT skills.

Perfect.

The measurable achievements in that first accountant CV sample will drop the manager’s jaw.

What if You’ve Got No Experience?

You still have accomplishments. Use them to fund your entry-level accounting CV objective.

Results-driven accountant with solid budgeting and reconciliation skills, seeking to solve problems for Daryl H. at Mastercard. Passed ACCA exam with score of 99 in 2 sections and 94+ elsewhere. Worked as accounting consultant to two businesses, prepared 18 tax returns, and streamlined the accounting process for a hardware business.

Max ROI. No accounting jobs, but a professional staff accountant CV summary.

Accounting CV objectives used to talk about your goals. You’ll get more mileage in 2022 by showing how you can help.

Expert Hint: Write your AccountingCV objective orCV summary last. That’ll give you a long list of assets to pick from.

3. Write a Perfect Accounting CV Job Description

Insider tip:

Good CV job descriptions use the perfect few achievements.

Once you learn the system, you’ll prove you’re Ernst & Young material.

Here’s how:

1. Read the job ad.

2. Highlight the accounting CV skills and duties.

3. Make CV bullets that show you know them cold.

These accountant CV examples detail the best practises.

Senior Accountant
MasterCard Incorporated
2013–2018

  • Provided accounting support for monthly closing process.
  • Increased adoption of accounting data security best practises to save 700 hours per year, saving £700,000 annually company-wide.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to facilitate reporting. Slashed 20% from time to complete month-end reconciliation.
  • Identified & fixed recurring problem, saving £1.5 million a year.

Senior Accountant
MasterCard Incorporated
2013–2018

  • Responsible for monthly closing process.
  • Tasked with spreading adoption of accounting data security best practises.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to facilitate reporting.

The measurable accomplishments in example #1 fit the job description like a reconciled account.

Entry-Level Accounting CV Example—No Experience

Even with no professional experience for your CV, your staff accountant CV can get attention. Use projects, pro-bono work, and volunteeringlike this entry-level accounts payable CV sample:

Accounting Experience

Various
2011–2010

(Video) Write Bio Data

  • Worked as accounting consultant for local veterinary practise.
  • Prepared 18 tax returns for individuals and couples.
  • Facilitated Quickbooks improvements for hardware business.

Focus on highlighting your job skills.

Rookie blunder:

Don’t use accounting CV skills lists from online.

To employers, that’s intellectual embezzlement.

Instead:

  1. Pick the right accounting skills from the job ad.
  2. List them in your CV for accounting jobs.
  • Prove them in your bullet points.

Job ad wants: (1) budgeting (2) cost analysis (3) account analysis

Accountant
Honda
2011–2013

  • Supported (1) budget reporting and financial reporting process.
  • Performed detailed (2) cost analysis that led to saving £1 million annually.
  • Used (3) account analysis to identify opportunities to cut variable costs 15%.
  • Implemented rolling forecasts and budgets to better align plans with budgets. Increased budgeting efficiency 15% and cut costs 18%.

That accountant CV example is worth its weight in Berkshire Hathaway stock. The numbers and percentages help.

The ResumeLab builder is more than looks. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Easy. Improve your CV in our CV builder now.

Accounting CV: Examples and 25+ Writing Tips (2)

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Nail it all with a splash of colour, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Use the ResumeLab builder now.

List of Accounting CV Skills

I just said don’t use skills lists, didn’t I?

But for reference:

Accounting CV Skills to Include

Accounting CV Skills
Soft SkillsHard SkillsHard Skills
IT SkillsAsset ManagementPayroll Taxes
OrganisationMS OfficeRevenue Projections
Time ManagementBudgetsTax Compliance
Critical ThinkingFinancial StatementsPayroll
Business KnowledgeAccount AnalysisRegulatory Filings
Interpersonal SkillsAccount ReconciliationState Tax Law
LeadershipGeneral LedgerProfit and Loss
MathematicsIncome TaxInvoices
CommunicationCorporate TaxTax Returns
Detail OrientedQuickbooksPaychex

Computer skills for CVs in accounting are increasingly important. Don’t have ‘em? Sign up for an online class or two.

Expert Hint:Hiring for accounting jobs is strong. Does that mean your staff accountant CV doesn’t matter? Not if you want the good jobs with high pay.

4. Turn Boring Education to a Reason to Hire You

Massive bonus:

Don’t waste space with yourCV education section.

Use it to show you know an acquisition from an S-corp.

These entry-level accounting CV examples show the way:

Education

MBA, University of Missouri
2006–2010

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  • Pursued a passion for accounting classes.
  • Excelled in financial accounting coursework.
  • Completed Senior Excellence project in budgeting.
  • Passed ACCA exam with score of 79%.

Education

MBA, University of London
2006–2010

  • Excelled in life science classes.
  • Received degree and passed ACCA exam.

Ching!

That first accounting CV sample will hit interview paydirt.

It proves your financial passion started back in school.

Expert Hint: Is your accounting assistant CV experience underfunded? Balance it with a longer education section. Divide it into projects, groups, and positions.

5. Bootstrap Your Accounting CV With These

Here’s a shocker:

Most accountant CVs are like the others.

Make yours blaze by adding personality.

How?

With CV extra sections that prove your passion for £ excellence.

These two accounting CV examples show the way.

Additional Activities

  • Member, ACCA, AFWA.
  • Accounting volunteer, Willey Swamp Learning Coop.
  • Teach biweekly yoga classes as self-care.

Publications

  • 2017 Article on month-end-closing published in AICPA Insights.
  • 2016 Article on financial statements appeared in Forbes.

Additional Activities

  • Teach yoga
  • Write occasional articles on accounting
  • Love taking long walks

Good Example? Sold.

This first accounting CV samples prove your blood runs silver.

What about certifications? Your licence is key. Put it by your name, in your job descriptions, and in a special section. See the accountant CV template up top for placement.

Expert Hint: For extra credit, send a cover letter with your CV for accounting jobs. Most hiring managers don’t read them, but nearly half demand them.

Double your impact with a matching CV and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter builder and make your application documents pop out.

Accounting CV: Examples and 25+ Writing Tips (3)

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Want to try a different look? There’s 18 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here.

Key Points

To write a great accounting CV:

  • Start with our accounting CV template. Your interview account will maximise.
  • Match your accountant CV to the job like GAAP to income statements. Do it with accomplishments that velcro to the job description.
  • Don’t waste real estate. Even education on a CV for accounting jobs must show matching achievements.
  • Write an accounting cover letter. In it, prove your passion with your top two accounting wins.

Got questions on how to write a great CV for accounting jobs? Not sure how to show accounting on a CV? Leave a comment. We’re happy to reply.

FAQs

How do I write a personal statement for accounting and finance CV? ›

Example Accounting Personal Statement

I am flexible, focused and maintain a calm and professional demeanor at all times, even when working under pressure. In my previous role I was responsible for managing a number of large clients' budgets and cash flow and providing detailed analysis of financial data.

How do I study ACCA on my CV? ›

How to include an ACCA or CIMA qualification on your CV. If you have gained an Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) or Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) qualification, these should be highlighted clearly on your accountancy CV within the qualifications section.

What are the 3 most important skills every accountant should have? ›

Top Skills of an Accountant
  • Knowledge of Accounting Practices. ...
  • Proficiency in Accounting Software. ...
  • Ability to Prepare Financial Statements. ...
  • Knowledge of General Business Practices. ...
  • Ability to Analyze Data. ...
  • Critical Thinking Skills.
13 Jul 2021

What would you consider the top 3 skills of an accountant? ›

Strong written and oral communication. Organization and attention to detail. Analytical and problem solving skills. Time management.

What is a good opening statement for a CV? ›

Objective-style opening statements typically include statements such as: “Looking for a position where I can grow and gain experience in XYZ” or “Looking for a job where I can use my skills to help a company meet targets and increase revenue.”

What looks good on a personal statement for accounting? ›

Your personal statement should be an in-depth look at the most important person on the course...you! With an Accounting and Finance personal statement, universities should see your love of the subject, your interest in the field and what makes you tick.

How do I make my CV personal statement stand out? ›

How can I make it stand out to employers?
  1. Tailor your personal statement (and CV in general) to each application.
  2. Be honest. ...
  3. Provide evidence of skills and experience but remember to keep it brief.
  4. Use the job description to help form your profile.
  5. Stick to the word limit.
  6. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes.

How long should accountants CV be? ›

An accountant resume should only be around two pages long, we recommend only including up to three previous roles. You want to make sure your employment history is easy to read and ensure it is listed in reverse chronological order starting with your most recent experience and working backwards.

Can I put ACCA after my name? ›

Once you have completed your ACCA Qualification by passing your exams, along with three years' practical experience and the Ethics and Professional Skills module, you will be invited to become an ACCA member. You will be able to use the 'ACCA' letters after your name.

How long should an accounting CV be? ›

Two or three pages for your accounting resume is ideal. Acknowledge your academic credentials early. These tend to be more relevant to the accounting and financial sector than other industries. Do include company names clearly, and spelled correctly.

What is your greatest strength as an accountant? ›

20 Qualities & Traits That Make a Good Accountant
  1. You Shine Behind the Scenes. ...
  2. You're Detail-Oriented. ...
  3. You Can Think of Money as Numbers. ...
  4. You're Tech-Savvy. ...
  5. You Have a Strong Work Ethic. ...
  6. You Value Personal and Professional Integrity. ...
  7. You Have Great Communication Skills. ...
  8. You're a Team Player.
18 Nov 2021

What are the basic 5 things an accountant should be aware? ›

Basic Accounting Skills Every Professional Accountant Must Have!
  • 1) Interpersonal skills: There is a misconception that an accountant's work involves purely number crunching. ...
  • 2) Taxation. Taxation is a very volatile and dynamic subject. ...
  • 3) Analysis. ...
  • 4) Accounting basics. ...
  • 5) National certification. ...
  • 6) Accounting Software.
12 Dec 2018

What are 5 important qualities necessary for accounting careers? ›

6 Everyday qualities of an accountant you just might possess
  • You thrive behind the scenes. ...
  • You are detail-oriented and meticulous. ...
  • You see numbers and money differently. ...
  • You are tech savvy. ...
  • You have a strong sense of integrity. ...
  • You have a solid work ethic.
5 Aug 2019

What are hard skills in accounting? ›

Examples of hard skills include proficiency in using accounting software programs, knowing how to prepare and interpret financial statements and other reports, developing efficient financial reporting methods, and planning and implementing accounting controls.

What makes an accountant stand out? ›

Leadership/Confidence

Alongside communication skills, strong leadership abilities and self-confidence are also being increasingly sought after by hiring manager.

What are the four professional qualities expected of an accountant? ›

Attributes of Professionalism
  • Competency. First of all, accountancy professionals are known for their specialised knowledge and skills backed up by their accountancy qualification. ...
  • Reliability and accountability. ...
  • Honesty and integrity. ...
  • Self-control. ...
  • Flexibility. ...
  • Respect for others. ...
  • Professional image.

How do you answer does your CV best describe you? ›

Example: "I am ambitious and driven. I thrive on challenges and constantly set goals for myself, so I have something to strive toward. I'm not comfortable with settling, and I'm always looking for an opportunity to do better and achieve greatness. I was promoted three times in less than two years in my previous role."

What phrases to avoid in a personal statement? ›

Here are some words you should remove if they feature in your personal statement.
  • Passionate. Possibly the most overused word when it comes to personal statements. ...
  • Team player. You're a team player and can also work well individually? ...
  • Watching TV. ...
  • Extensive. ...
  • Also. ...
  • Jokes and puns. ...
  • Expert. ...
  • Overly long words.
17 Nov 2021

What should you not write in a personal statement? ›

7 Things to Avoid in Your Personal Statement
  • Whining. Don't whine in your essay! ...
  • Someone else is the hero. ...
  • Reads like a resume. ...
  • Lack of focus. ...
  • Leaves out personal growth. ...
  • Overcomplicated language. ...
  • Incorrect grammar or spelling.

What are three tips for writing a personal statement? ›

10 top tips for writing your personal statement
  • Plan before you write. ...
  • Don't use complicated language. ...
  • Avoid clichés. ...
  • Don't name certain universities. ...
  • Don't plagiarise. ...
  • Highlight your strengths. ...
  • Explain your interest. ...
  • Stick to the word count.
10 Jan 2022

How can I impress my CV? ›

7 Simple But Effective Ways to Make Your CV Stand Out
  1. Start strong. Start with a summary of your skills and key accomplishments. ...
  2. Emphasize results rather than responsibilities. ...
  3. Customize for the job you want. ...
  4. Highlight changes and growth. ...
  5. Demonstrate that you are connected. ...
  6. Show industry insight. ...
  7. Use power words.

What do employers look for in a CV? ›

A good CV shares these qualities: Your CV spells out you have the skills required for the job. Your CV demonstrates you understand the employer's objectives and are motivated to deliver them. Your CV highlights you have a track record of delivering results for your employers.

Why does a CV get rejected? ›

Inaccurate Dates

You must ensure that when you list your jobs that you have accurate start and finish dates; usually stipulating the month and year will be sufficient. A CV without this information will be rejected because the recruiter will simply think you are trying to hide something.

How do I write a personal statement for a finance job? ›

I have previous experience in an accounting environment where my position was as a trainee accountant. This gave me the experience of working at an accountancy firm, while showing me the skills and knowledge required for a future career. I have always had a keen interest in Mathematics from an early age.

How do you write a personal statement for masters in accounting and finance? ›

I want to develop my career in this sector and the accounting and financial services sectors require a high level of understanding of theory and practice. And this MSc course can make me professional. I believe that this course will help me become professional and proficient in my future career.

How do you start a personal statement example? ›

Try to avoid cliches and the most obvious opening sentences so you stand out from the very first line.
  1. From a young age…
  2. For as long as I can remember…
  3. I am applying for this course because…
  4. I have always been interested in…
  5. Throughout my life I have always enjoyed…

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