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Company Secretary

Company Secretaries deal with legal aspects in the management of a company. They keep company’s records; complete tax returns; advice the Board of Directors.

Job Profile

Company Secretary (CS) is one of the principal officers of the company. They keep the company’s records; complete the company’s tax returns; advise the Board of Directors of their legal obligations to ensure that companies comply with statutory legislation.
CS is also responsible for carrying out finance, accounts, legal, administrative and personnel functions in addition to his secretarial duties.
The role starts from the very moment when the idea of formation of a company is conceived. However, a company secretary’s actual function varies from company to company.
The responsibilities in a large or medium firm include incorporation, public issues including listing of shares and debentures, processing of applications for managerial appointments, remuneration, inter-corporate investments and loans, conduct of board and general meeting and maintenance of records, filing returns, preparation of project financing, acting as internal legal advisor and representative when needed.

Salary/Package

A Corporate Secretary with 1-4 years experience can expect to earn an average total compensation of Rs 4-5 lakh p.a. A mid-career Corporate Secretary with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of 9-10 lakh p.a. An experienced Corporate Secretary with 10-19 years of experience earns an average total compensation of Rs 14 lakh p.a. In their late career, employees earn an average total compensation of up to Rs. 22 lakh p.a. The salaries may vary based on experience, skills, roles, location, etc.

Skills required

Organised
Ability to understand complex & technical issues
Tactful
Competence with numbers
Capability to multi-task
Command of written & spoken English
Loyalty to the company

Pros and Cons of being Company Secretary

Pros

High paying salary
Travel opportunities in the form of business trips
Surrounded and work with intelligent people
Can work in a team or sometimes alone

Cons

Long work week
High amounts of stress
No time for family and friends
Involves too much of travelling

How do I become one

Path 1

Std XII (Stream: Any) >> Entry CS (CS Foundation) >> Graduation (Any) >> CS Course (Executive>Professional>Integrated) >> Goal (Company Secretary)

Path 2

Std XII (Stream: Any) >> Foundation (CS/CA/CMA) >> Graduation (Any subject 50%) >> Entrance test (Integrated CS course>3yr CS training) >> Goal (Company Secretary)

Company Secretary course goes through 3 stages of study and training; (1) Foundation (2) Executive Program (3) Professional Program.

After +2 a student is eligible to enrol for the CS Foundation Course. This course is an eight month course. Examination can be taken twice a year, in June and December. Enrolment for December exam ends in March and for June exam in September.

Candidates who pass the CS Foundation examination are eligible to seek registration to the Executive Program. Students qualifying CA foundation , CMA Foundation courses are also eligible.

Graduates in any discipline (except Fine Arts) with min aggregate 50% can enrol in the Executive program. Professional Program is pursued after clearing the Executive Programme. Finally an Internship has to be completed.

Integrated Company Secretary course: On the basis of an entrance exam or score in CAT, XAT, NMAT, GMAT, SNAT,ATMA, MH-CET 50 candidates are selected for a 3 year full time (non residential ) Company Secretary course including 1 year of Internship.

Financial Planners

Financial Planners confer with clients, assess their financial resources, and offer financial plans to them to help them achieve their lifelong financial goals.

Job Profile

Meet with the client to estimate their financial resources and their financial goals.
Devise specific interest and financial goals such as retirement plan, investing inheritance, buying a home etc.
When working for clients with huge financial holdings they meet with their client’s accountants, trustees, investment banker, etc to get a complete picture of the client’s financial goals.
Compile information detailing a client’s current income, investments, expenses, risk tolerance, tax returns , insurance cover, retirement, property holdings etc.
Prepare a plan that meets the clients’ overall , or specific financial goals.
Answer all the questions the client may have with respect to the plan.
Spend a lot of their time in retirement planning, tax planning, estate planning and investment planning & risk management.
Are prepared with skills in asset management, insurance, investments, retirement funds.

Salary/Package

A Financial Advisor with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation of Rs. 2.5-3.15 lakh p.a. A mid-career Financial Advisor with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of Rs 4.90 lakh p.a. An experienced Financial Advisor with 10-19 years of experience earns an average total compensation of Rs 10-11 lakh p.a. In their late career, employees earn an average total compensation of Rs. 21 lakh p.a. The salaries may vary based on experience, skills, roles, location, etc.

Skills required

Research interest
Good interpersonal skills
Good record keeping skills
Problem solving
Ability to take stress
Good presentation skills
Analytical
Self starting

Pros and Cons of being a Financial Planner

Pros

Offering Meaningful Planning/Advice
Good Income Potential
Work Schedule Flexibility
Creativity in Practice Structure

Cons

High Stress Industry
Regulatory and Compliance Requirements
Continuous Prospecting

How do I become one

Path 1

Std XII (Stream: Any) >> Graduation (Any discipline) >> Professional ((CFP)Financial Planning) >> Professional (Work Exp > CFP Exam > CFPCM Cert.) >> Goal (Financial Planner)

Path 2

Std XII (Stream: Sc/Com(Comp/Eco)) >> Graduation (B.Com/B.Eco/BFIA/BBA) >> Post Graduation (MBA/CA) >> Professional (Work Exp > CFP Exam > CFPCM Cert.) >> Goal (Financial Planner)

The complete academic course of the Financial Planning curriculum is in 5 Module CFPCM Certification Education Program through an Authorized Education Partner. Also pass the corresponding Exam 1-4 facilitated by NSE and then the CFP exam.

Examination: CFP Exam or also called the Exam 5 based on module VI- Advanced Financial Planning.

Experience: Regular Pathway candidates – 5 years personal financial planning Pre or post AFP exam. Challenge status pathway – 5 year personal financial planning experience before taking the AFP exam.

There are two levels of certification – Advanced Financial Planners (AFP) and Certified Financial Planners (CFP).

CFPCM Certification is awarded by Financial Planning Standards Board in India through its affiliates to competent & qualifying candidates fulfilling the 4 E Criteria of CFPCM Certification i.e. Education, Examination , Experience & Certification.

Education: 5 modules of Financial Planning course and pass in the corresponding 1-4 exams of NSE.

Accountant

Accounting is an organised way to keep records of business and financial transactions to analyse, verify and report financial results. It is a blend of many fields such as Commerce, Finance, Business Administration, Banking and Insurance. These fields merge together to help users of accounting information become reliable in making company financial data. It is the process of keeping financial accounts to estimate economic activities of an organization and forwards the related information to investors, creditors, management and regulators. It is a crucial part of managing payroll in auditing and financial management. The study of financial data can be done by various software tools, which gives you a better insight in assessing the amount, uncertainty of cash flows based on IFRS standards. Accountants are in demand in each and every sector whether it is educational, industrial, small and big scale industries.

Job Profile

Accounting is an emerging field of commerce and career prospects in this field keeps on increasing according to the market requirements. An Accountant’s main job is to keep a track of financial accounts and economic activities of an organization. He plays a key role in auditing and preparing annual reports, assets by collecting related information from Investors by using various tools to analyze the required data. He reconciles discrepancies, verifies, and allocates to produce error-free accounting reports to higher officials. His job schedule is very hectic. He will always have a tough time and deadline during peak months from January to April. He works solely or with his team according to the work requirements.

Different job roles in accounting fields are financial controller, financial analyst, Financial Manager, Financial Advisor, Chief Financial Officer, Certified Public Accountant, Company Secretary and Chartered Management Consultant, Bookkeeper, auditing clerk, forensic accounting etc. There is a lot of scope of job opportunities abroad with good packages as an accountant and CA are on-demand in many industrial sectors.

Salary/Package

A person working as an Accountant in India typically earns around Rs 21,900 per month. Salaries range from Rs. 11,000 – 45,500 per month. This is the average monthly salary including housing, transport, and other benefits. Accountant salaries vary drastically based on experience, skills, roles or location.

Skills required

Numerical aptitude
Ability to handle distraught and questioning clients
Patience and self discipline
Good computing skill
Ability to work in an office setting to review documents for long hours
Belief in ethical practice
Honesty and reliability

Pros and Cons of an Accountant

Pros

It is a stable and flourishing career of all occupations.
Start as an entry-level associate to gain experience through on job performance.
A flexible job which can help you to choose an industry of your choice.

Cons

Enhance your skills with new technology.
Work environment sometimes may feel lethargic.
Heavy workload and deadline from January to April.

How do I be one

The eligibility criteria for the admission in Accounting depend on the level of degree achieved. Here is the list of eligibility criteria for candidates pursuing admission in accounting are:

For admission in undergraduate courses, 10+2 in Mathematics is a compulsory requirement with a minimum 50% in aggregate and basic knowledge of Maths, Accounts and Economics.

The admission process for B.com is through an entrance test CAT- Common Admission Test that is conducted by respective Universities or any equivalent entrance test according to the respective States.

For admission in a Postgraduate course into Accounting, the candidate must have a bachelor degree in Accounting, Economics, Finance and Accounts, Taxation etc. The top entrance test conducted for admission into the Accounting Programme is ICWAI, ICSI and ICAI conducted by the respective University Board.

To gain admission in a diploma/technical programme one needs to qualify 10+2 exams with 55% aggregate from the respective university of their state.

The top entrance tests in India required for admission in Accounting are:

ICWAI – The Institute of Costs and Works Accountants
ICSI – Institute of Company secretary Exams
ICAI – Institute of Chartered Accountant of India exam
CPGET – Common PG entrance Test
CFA – Chartered Financial Analyst Exam
UGC – NET/JRF – Junior Research Fellowship Exam for Accountancy

Chartered Accountant

Chartered Accountants deal with the management of money and provide financial advice. They maintain records of financial transactions which every organisation is required to keep by law and also carry out company audits.

Job Profile

Chartered Accountants are members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. They work in private practice or in the accounts department of firms and organisations. The range of work in private practice can vary enormously according to the size and place (city) of practice. If it is a large practising firm there is greater specialisation of individual accountants within the organization.

Computers are widely used in accounting and auditing. Accountants summarize transactions in standard formats for financial records, calculate projected financial ratios, or organize data in special formats for financial analysis.

Accountants may be involved in any of the following tasks:

Financial Accounting

Financial accounting deals with keeping financial records. The job involves interpreting accounts, supervising, controlling and organising expenditure and income, etc. It includes compiling daily, monthly and yearly management accounts.

The tasks are:

Operating accounts
Carrying out internal audits
Dealing with wages and salaries
Paying accounts and sending out invoices
Managing tax

Auditing

Statutory audits are required as per the Company Act by both the private and public sector.
CA carries out internal audit to keep track of management procedures and internal controls and ensure that records are accurate and controls are appropriate. They review compliance with corporate policies and procedures.
Tax auditors review financial records and other information provided by taxpayers to determine the appropriate tax liability. Government departments have tax auditors who may be appointed to audit the taxpayers’ accounts.

Cost Accounting

Cost accounting deals with the complex business of working out what particular operations, jobs, and products really cost to produce. It extends to:

Budgeting and budgetary control
Forecasting
Monitoring expenditure to see that costs are not over-shooting

Tax Management

CA specialises as tax managers and assists in optimising the firm’s financial structure. They look at the tax implications of new plans, changes in company structures, in fact any major decision. They advise on the tax effect of performance goals.

Management Accounting

Management accounting is a task senior chartered accountants perform
They collect, organise, collate and analyse information from all parts of the organization
Make regular critical analysis of past and present financial performance
Make projections for the future

Consultancy

Consultancy is a challenging opening for bright and ambitious young CAs. Business today needs right information related to accounting. Consultant’s functions relate to the following areas:

Corporate law advice regarding company formation and structure, liquidation and financial aspects
Project planning and advice on financial resource
Business advice regarding expansion, profit analysis, profit improvement, joint venture programmes, etc
Secretarial practice and procedures

Salary/Package

Chartered Accountants earnings depend on the position in a company. The average income could range from Rs 60,000 to Rs 1.8 lakhs per month. At senior level the sky is the limit. Average earnings of a senior level are in the range of Rs 15 lakhs to 22 lakhs per annum. The salaries may vary based on experience, skills, roles, location, etc.

Skills required

A disciplined attitude for hard work
Good understanding of socio-economic environment in which organisations operate
Numerical ability
Logical and methodical approach
Ability to take stress
Attentive to detail
Ability to deal with different types of people
Necessary skills in applying theoretical knowledge to practical situations
Ethical values
Analytical mind
Good verbal and written expression
Business acumen
Patient and industrious

Pros and Cons of Chartered Accountant

Pros

High figure salary
High demand job
Growing industry and opportunities
Stable income

Cons

Ongoing learning
Long monotonous working hours
Difficult deadlines at the end of the financial year
Lots of stress

How do I be one

Path 1

Std X (X > Foundation > XII) >> CA Course (Pass XII > Intermediate) >> CA Final (CA Final exam) >> Goal (Chartered Accountant)

Path 2

Std XII (Stream: Any) >> Grad/Post grad (Com 55%/other subjects 60%) >> CA course (Intermediate) >> CA Course (CA Final exam) >> Goal (Chartered Accountant)

The Chartered Accountancy examinations are divided into three levels. They are; Foundation, Intermediate & Final Examination.

Class X pass student may register with the Board of Studies (BoS) of the Institute for the Foundation Course. The steps are as follows:

Register and complete 4 months of theoretical education for the Foundation Course.
Appear for Foundation examination after passing in Class XII examination
Qualify Foundation Examination

Intermediate Course is the second level of Chartered Accountancy examinations. The steps to proceed are:

Register and pursue 8 months of theoretical education of the Intermediate course
Pass at least Group I of Intermediate Exam.
Complete 4 weeks Integrated Course on Information Technology and Soft Skills (ICITSS)
Begin practical training.(Register for 3 yr Practical Training on passing at least Group I)

CA Final Examination

Register in the Final Course on qualifying both Groups of Intermediate Course
Complete 4 wks Advanced ICITSS during the last two years of Practical Training.
Complete Practical Training
Take Final examination after completion of practical training
Take Membership of ICAI

Note: Exemptions for Candidates from the foundation course.

Those who have passed Intermediate level examination of Institute of Company Secretaries of India/ Institute of Cost Accountants of India are exempt. They may register for the CA Intermediate course directly and follow the course from there.

For Graduates & Postgraduates

Register with the Board of Studies for the Intermediate course (provisional registration is allowed to Final year students)
Complete 3 wk Integrated Course on Information Technology and Soft Skills (ICITSS) before commencement of the practical training
Register for Three Years Practical Training with a CA
Take Intermediate Examination after Twelve months of Practical Training and qualify both groups
Register for the Final Course
Complete 3 wks Advanced ICITSS during the last two years of Practical Training
Finish Practical Training
Take Final examination
Take Membership of ICAI

Finance Manager

Finance managers prepare financial reports, advice on investments and are involved in financial management strategies and planning for business viability.

Job Profile

Finance Managers work as treasurer, controllers, credit managers, cash managers, treasury mangers, merchant bankers, equity analysts, and are responsible for preparing financial reports to meet tax and other regulatory demands.

They work in almost all sectors such as manufacturing, communications, finance, education, health care, travel, etc.

Finance managers

Oversee the flow of cash and finances
Develop information to assess the present and future financial status of the firm
Plan and control the flow of funds within and outside of the organization
Work with top management to arrange for long term finance
Develop financial and economic policy, establish procedures, delegate authority, and oversee the implementation of these policies
Set up budgetary systems, financial services and make appraisals of the adequacy of accounting methods
Maintain liaison with banking personnel, financial institutions, treasury officials for sourcing funds, and control financial activities
Plan, coordinate and manage the financial operation for diversification of business operations
carry out investment analysis Source funds, issue management and viable project investments for success of a project

Merchant Bankers

Manage new issues, credit syndication, government consent, accept fixed deposits from companies and manage portfolios
Assess, source funds and promote projects
Advise corporate on issues which are related to capital markets, investments, management, government or concerning portfolios of individuals or societies
Act as financial intermediaries for the transfer of capital from the investor to the investment firm

Equity Analyst

Carry on equity research and analysis used for guiding investment decisions
Offer objective assessment of investment plans
Conduct financial statement and cash flow analysis
Estimate supply and demand and also make profit predictions

Portfolio Managers

Understand the securities market
Guide clients in portfolio selection
Carry out economic, industrial and company analysis measuring earnings, and forecasting earnings
Carry out bond analysis and strategies, performance evaluation and investment management

Treasury Managers

Treasury and foreign exchange function have assumed importance with the increase in flow of foreign exchange from foreign markets into India. The treasury profit centres depend upon the treasury managers skills in:

Financial forecasting
Financial management
Assessment of cost of currency funds

Salary/Package

Finance Managers earns around 62,700 INR per month. Salaries range from Rs 29,500 (lowest) to Rs 1 lakh (highest). At senior level the sky is the limit. Average earnings of a senior level are in the range of Rs 18 lakhs to 20 lakhs per annum. The salaries may vary based on experience, skills, roles, location, etc.

Skills required

Superior analytical and logical ability
Skills for planning, interpreting and predicting
Socially precise with business acumen to communicate with the highest level of the management
Mathematical acumen
Good communication and negotiating skills

Pros and Cons of a Finance Manager

Pros

Suitable for people who likes to start and carry out projects
Suitable for people who wants job security and a good working condition
This career is perfect for people who love to work indoors
One of the high paying careers in the world

Cons

Not suitable for people who likes to work with designs
It is hard to get into this career. A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for this career.
Long working hours

How do I be one

Path 1

Std XII (Stream: Sc PCM/Com (Maths, Eco)) >> Graduation (B Eco/Business Eco/Maths) >> Post graduation (Fin Mgmt/Masters Finance Control) >> Goal (Finance Manager)

Path 2

Std XII (Stream: Any) >> Graduation (B.Com/BFIA/B.Eco – CA foundation) >> Professional (CA/CFA/MFC) >> Goal (Finance Manger)

BFIA – Bachelors in Financial and Investment Analysis
CA – Chartered Accountant
CFA – Chartered Financial Analyst
MFC – Masters in Finance Control

For Entry level jobs in multinational banks, business houses, trading firms, export houses, financial institutions the qualifications required are MBA Finance/Masters in Finance Control/ Chartered accountancy.

From the entry point or junior level positions they make their way to middle level positions and then to senior positions over a period of approximately ten years.

Business Manager

Have you ever heard about a job, where the person has to responsibly manage all the activities as well as the workers of the entire workplace? This is what business managers do. With an increase in the number of companies in the world, the need for a business manager is also increasing. The need for a business manager is always there irrespective of the size of the business. For those who have a small scale business, the manager helps in developing and shaping the company to become a bigger brand. They make sure that all the workers are fruitfully working in the right direction and aiming to get more business for the company. In a large corporation or a multi-national company, these managers have a very big role to play. They not just keep a track on the workers but also do timely surveys for the companies in order to keep the business running and to find out ways and possibilities which could lead to getting more business.

Job Profile

With companies forming every second day, there is going to be a high requirement of Business Managers. A student after completing the studies can find a place for themselves anywhere they want. They have chances to find opportunities not just in their sector but across the industries.

There are a lot of specialisations that are available in the management sector. Depending upon their interest and personality, one can become a financial manager, marketing manager, operations manager, HR manager, and so on. All these specialisations play an important role in shaping the future of the person. Depending upon your qualification, calibre, and interest in your specialisation, the salary can be anywhere from a few lakh to thousands of lakhs.

Salary/Package

The average salary that a business manager gets is somewhere between Rs 7 to 13 lakh p.a. and sometimes above that, depending upon the experience. Therefore a career in this profile will surely pay you a good salary. The salaries may vary based on experience, skills, roles, location, etc.

Skills required

One should have a friendly and outgoing personality

Ability to work under pressure

Should be a team player

Ability to handle the clients and the people of the organisation

Ability to meet the deadlines

Should have leadership qualities

Pros and Cons of a Business Manager

Pros

The career has a lot of opportunities
The person gets to enjoy a good life
Good Salary
You get to groom your personality and boost your confidence every single day

Cons

The job requires a lot of dedication and hard work
You need to have a good leadership quality

How do I be one

To become a successful business manager, you need to focus on the planning, analysing, supervision, and execution of business processes. To excel in this field one needs to have a lot of skills such as better communication skills, ability to lead a team, awareness of the environment, a development that is happening around. In this career, both undergraduate and postgraduate courses are important. PGDBM is the Post Graduate Diploma in Business Management. A lot of students often take this course. The other under graduation courses one can choose to become a business manager includes Bachelors in Business Management (BBM), Bachelors of Business Administration (BBA), and Bachelors of Business Studies (BBS). The student aspiring for this career needs to complete their 10+2 in math/commerce scoring more than 50%. If you get this percentage in your 10+2, you can then appear for the entrance exam.

Credit Analyst

A Credit Analyst analyses the factors affecting risk that may influence loan applications and approval. An analyst is in charge of collecting and examining the financial background of applicants, the running total credit analysis in the paying record, income, and savings history thoroughly. A Credit Analyst concentrates on examining the client’s money related information; it is just to determine the financial risk that may occur in case of a recurring credit. These professionals also assist their clients throughout the process of claiming a loan. They explain about the types of loans and the terms and conditions to claim the loan. They also explain the verification and analysis of applicants’ records and occurrences. A Credit Analyst can be seen in the financial institutions and forms to more specialized forms that deal with insurance or Investments.

Job Profile

Business Credit Analyst – Business Credit Analysts evaluate the risk when claiming business loans. They manage the credentials of the clients business. They thoroughly go through assets, profit, and losses. They even access the security of the client’s business client’s economic growth and client’s potential growth. They approve, provide, render and guide the clients who are involved in business.

Consumer Credit Analyst – A Consumer Credit Analyst analyzes the risk in seeking personal loans. They provide details of the loans, check the documents, study client’s history and liabilities. They even gather information such as past credit details, default, an asset in the form of money, investment or real estate, salary, and credit.

Corporate Credit Analyst – A Corporate Credit Analyst undertakes the credit risk of a non-financial Enterprises like industry, companies in manufacturing firms, trading firms and service providing agencies. A Corporate Credit Analyst manages the portfolio of corporate counterparties not only based on the financial background of the form but also based on its pay scale, geography, manufactured products and the other industries for firms involved in it. They even provide the support analysis of loan and product transactions depending on individual’s experience.

Financial Institution Credit Analyst – A Financial Institute Credit Analyst assesses the certification of a financial interdisciplinary. There is a lot of transaction between two banks, so they evaluate the cash flow and the collateral-based loans credit. They are responsible for accepting the loan servicing department in the maintenance of loan files, payoff and support portfolio of the financial firm.

Sovereign Credit Analyst – Countries all over the world borrow and lend funds from their symbiosis countries, IMF, World Bank and other financial firms. A Sovereign Credit Analyst measures the certification of the government of a country from where the fund will be borrowed. Analysis of the country is based on tax, the geopolitical situation, expenditure, and fiscal deficit. An ideal brain credit analyst has a good understanding of country risk and economics through working with experienced analysts.

Credit Investment Analyst – A Credit Investment Analyst analyses security based on certain factors, and depending on the factors comes the risk. They analyze both like credit risk, interest rate risk of the security so that the institution of form investors can make informed decisions before investing.

Banks and the other Financial Institutions – All the banks which provide credit to the individual and corporate firms are the biggest job givers of the credit analyst for the even measure the worth of the loan of an applicant.

Institutional Investors – Institutional investors recruit the employee analyst to measure the Predator is that it involves bonds and other securities.

Rating Firms – Rating Agencies give credit rating to banks, other Financial Institutions, corporate and government. These are some Global credit rating Agencies that recruit search analysts.

Government Agencies – Government Agencies like banks, credit providers, market participants and policy Agencies search for analysts to analyze the creditworthiness of the country.

Salary/Package

The average salary that a business manager gets is somewhere between Rs 2.3 to 12 lakh p.a. and sometimes above that, depending upon the experience. The salaries may also vary based on skills, roles, location, etc.

Skills required

Industrious – This job requires great attention to the details. A Credit Analyst seeks the missing information that can lead to incorrect analysis of a customer and a firm looking for problems.
Soft skills – Many Credit Analyst careers require communicating the analysis to the team, client or publishing a report. Should be able to effectively communicate the decision to the wide range of people in oral and written form.
Adept at organizing, analyzing and reporting data
Strong interpersonal skill
Skill in working with details and numbers
Qualitative analysis – A Credit Analyst should be capable of reviewing and creating a total number and explaining it to the client.
Industry knowledge – Analysts work in the industry with dignity and have a sector with specific soft skills. For analysts looking for a career in a particular sector means that they should have a full knowledge and understanding of his work.

Pros and Cons of a Credit Analyst

Pros

Work with important information and data
Access to senior management of the company
Handling of confidential information
Provide recommendations to improve the business
Good compensation and salary

Cons

Long hours
High level of responsibility (stress)
High urgency for most work
Extreme attention to detail required

How do I be one

Path 1

Class XII (Stream: Commerce) >> Graduation (BFIA) >> Post Graduation (MBA (Finance)) >> Goal (Credit Analyst)

Path 2

Class XII (Stream: Commerce) >> Graduation (B.Com) >> PG (M. Com/CFA/MBA (Fin)) >> Goal (Credit Analyst)

Path 3

Class XII (Stream: PCM) >> Graduation (B.Sc Maths/B.Stats/B.Eco) >> Post Graduation (MBA (Fin)/CCRA) >> Goal (Credit Analyst)

Path 4

Class XII (Stream: Commerce) >> Graduation (Graduation) >> Post Graduation (CCRA/CFA/FRM) >> Goal (Credit Analyst)

Bachelor in Finance & Investment Analysis (BFIA)

The Certified Credit Research Analyst (CCRA)
The Certified Credit Research Analyst (CCRA) is a global education program. It imparts training in debt capital markets and bank loan markets.
Regular course: Level 1 & Level 2 exams. Eligibility: Graduates/ from any stream Professionals.
Expert Mode: Only Level 2 exam. Eligibility: CA/FRM/CIIA/CAIIB/CS/ICWA/PRM/CFA
CCRA Certification is offered by Association of International Wealth Management of India (AIWMI) & National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM).
Certified Financial Analyst (CFA)
Financial Risk Management (FRM)

Operations Manager

Operations managers plan, organize and supervise production and manufacturing processes or the provision of services. They turn the inputs in an organization such as materials, equipment, technology, human resources etc. into outputs effectively. Operations management is applicable to all businesses.

Job Profile

Implement an organization’s business strategy
Oversee, design and redesign, execute and control operations that convert resources into desired goods and services
Manage the production and delivery of products and services
Oversee all resources such as materials, equipment and technology and also human resource such as staff or workers that make up the operations function
Take responsibility for procurement (acquiring goods or services from external sources)
Are responsible for supply chain management
Manage logistics to improve the company’s sustainability with regard to its use of resources
Ensure cost effectiveness in all processes
Manage all levels of workers involved in different processes

Salary/Package

The average salary that a business manager gets is somewhere between Rs 3 to 14.75 lakh p.a. and sometimes above that, depending upon the experience. The salaries may also vary based on skills, roles, location, etc.

Skills required

Excellent organizational ability
Good coordination skill
Good understanding of financial regulations
Strategic thinking
Problem solving skills
Ability to integrate diverse and detailed information
Global perspective on industrial trends
Responding to change
Good communication and leadership skills
Patience and good communication skill

Pros and Cons of an Operations Manager

Pros

Good salary potential
A decision-maker within an organization
Variety of industries to work in (telecommunications, trading, import/export, construction)
Work in a comfortable environment

Cons

Managers often work long hours (evenings and weekends)
High-pressure position
Will need quite a lot of work experience to advance to a senior level

How do I be one

Path 1

Std XII (Stream: Com/Sc) >> Graduation (Commerce/Technology) >> Work Experience (Operations Management) >> Diploma/ Deg (Operations Manager) >> Goal

(Operations Manager)

Path 2

Std XII (Stream: Any) >> Diploma (Technical (2-3 yrs) ) >> Certificate (Operations Management) >> Goal (Operations Manager)

Investment Banker

Investment Bankers work with companies and government to issue securities, help investors purchase securities, manage financial assets, trade securities and provide financial advice.

Job Profile

With industries, corporate, start-ups and even governments wanting to raise capital for their expansion, the role of an Investment banker is expected to grow, both in India and abroad. A career in investment banking begins as an Analyst. The job involves research on the Organisation for which the capital has to be raised.

Creating earning models and returns ratios and comparisons with industry peers are jobs handled by Analysts. With experience, the role changes to Senior Analysts/Associates and Portfolio Managers who pitch, with presentations and discussions with clients and investors. The job is mainly a desk job for an Analyst, with seniors touring to various places to scout for investors. It’s a team project where all members contribute to the project, and a model is created for presentation to the investors.

Mergers and Acquisitions, Private Equity, Debt Syndication, etc are specializations where one can gain expertise and skills and jump to senior leadership roles. However, the job is very stressful with long hours researching the industry etc. An investment banker spends an average of 12-18 hours in the office, having no personal time. In India, most jobs are in the financial capital, i.e. Mumbai.

Salary/Package

An Investment Banker with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation of Rs. 8.5 lakh p.a. A mid-career Investment Banker with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of Rs. 16 lakh p.a. An experienced Investment Banker with 10-19 years of experience earns an average total compensation of Rs 25 lakh p.a. The salaries may vary based on experience, skills, roles, location, etc.

Skills required

Financial literacy and confidence with numbers is a prerequisite to be successful in this career
A person taking up a career in this field should have high resilience and the ability to face the consequences when things get tough
Combination of spreadsheet, accounting and legal skills
Strong, professional communication ability is an important characteristic of an investment banker
Good numerical skills
Excellent team leadership and teamwork skills are required for a successful investment banker

Pros and Cons of an Investment Banker

Pros

Highly paying salary
Large Bonus
Good professional knowledge about industries, market etc.
Quick promotions and leadership roles

Cons

Highly stressful
Long hours of work
Risky job as dependent on Capital market
Dependent on business sentiments and investors perception

How do I be one

Anyone with love of Mathematics and Analytical mind can aspire to be an Investment Banker. A finance or commerce background at the graduate level with an MBA (Finance) can kick start a career in this field. Many Diploma and certification courses like Masters in Financial control, Diploma in Financial Analysis, Investment Banking and Equity Research, Portfolio Management and Security Analysis, Banking and Finance, Investment and Business Research, Global Investment & Financial Planning can also be pursued to hone skills in this field. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) would be the premium qualification to secure a senior position in top Investment banking companies.

Big Data Analyst

Data is the real money of the 21st century. A Data Analyst collects, studies, organizes and analyzes large sets of data, also known as Big Data to find useful information and discover patterns that can be used in important decision making.

One of the biggest developments in the field includes Machine learning and integration of Artificial intelligence, Edge computing and Quantum computing. A Data Analyst’s work extends to different areas including understanding large chunks of data, report generation, visualization of data, data auditing and data mining. Strategic decision making is an important aspect of a company and Big Data Analysts help in making such decisions effectively; this makes it a more preferred field of choice as a career in the present era.

Job Profile

A Data Analyst job doesn’t involve frequent field visits and mostly involves indoor work. A Data Analyst’s work is individualized but the interpretation and decision making involves team efforts. It is mostly routine work and hardly requires stretched work time. Being a Data Analyst demands to work under pressure. As more and more companies are now moving towards the logical process of decision making there is a great demand for Big Data Analyst. The current demand includes handling a large amount of data and analyzing it properly to make a visualization of the hidden pattern to make an analytical decision.

A Data Analyst’s job is increasing in demand as more companies are using data to make future predictions and prepare better according to the market conditions. Data Auditor and Data Miner is one of the most popular job profiles that offers salaries up to Rs 10 Lakh per annum based on the experience. One can also opt-in for specialization under this career like Database management, Business intelligence, Cognitive computing development, Cloud computing etc.

Salary/Package

With required skill-set and intelligence, one can start with a basic salary of up to Rs 4 Lakh p.a. and move to mid-level with a pay package of Rs 8-9 Lakh p.a. and get at a senior level position with salaries up to Rs 12-15 Lakh p.a. IT companies, Banks and Big technology companies recruit Data Analysts regularly. Pune, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Mumbai are the most popular cities that hire Data Analyst professionals with an average pay package of Rs 6-7 Lakh p.a. based on the experience and knowledge. The salaries may vary based on experience, skills, roles, location, etc.

Skills required

A Big Data Analyst must have good analytical and statistical skill
You must have the ability to take responsibility and adhere to strict deadlines while working under pressure
A Big Data Analyst should also have a grip on programming languages, handling database, predictive analytics, data mining and data auditing
Team player, Ability to work long hours

Pros and Cons of being a Big Data Analyst

Pros

It is an enriching career for those who love playing with numbers, data and making strategic decisions.
It requires a specific set of skills which very few possess, that make it free from fierce competition.
The future aspects are promising as it is a vast area to explore and learn
It helps you pushing your limits and forces you to update your skills and knowledge continually

Cons

The job requires excellent analytical and statistical skills for taking even the smallest strategic decision.
The job demands working under pressure and adhering to strict deadlines
It requires a lot of additional knowledge with UG and PG degree to stand out that makes it very difficult to excel

How do I be one

To become a Big Data Analyst professional, there isn’t any hard and fast requirement, but there are some aspects that you need to fulfil to become one. Complete your 10+2 in Science, Commerce, and Humanities/Arts stream (Mandatory Subject: Mathematics). After completion of 10+2, you have to opt-in for an undergraduate degree in science, mathematics, engineering, finance, economics, and statistics or data science. A UG degree in these subjects is necessary because to become a Big Data Analyst you must have a grip on statistical and analytical skills. After completion of UG degree, you can start preparing for a PG degree in science, mathematics, engineering, finance, economics or statistics. Companies like IBM, Microsoft; Google also offers specialized certifications to excel in Big Data Analysis

Entrepreneur

Entrepreneurship is a subject that refers to designing and running your own business. It is about offering a different and innovative product or a service to targeted customers or maybe changing the traditional ways of consumption of products or services. With technology impacting almost everyone today in every corner of the world, entrepreneurs are making the most of it. It may concern your grocery delivery, taxi services, food delivery, financial services everything is being offered by the new generation entrepreneurs directly on their mobile. In the study of entrepreneurship, one would be reading about how to solve the real problems or the gaps that still exist in the life of people. Not to mention that entrepreneurship is the emerging career option among the millennials.

Job Profile

Being in the role of an Entrepreneur, starting the business and setting up the office place are the first thing to do. You have to get to register yourself as a company or a partnership or a property firm. You will also need to get the required licenses from the government authorities in the sector you operate in for example a license from FSSAI in case of a food business or a license from RBI in case of a banking business register with Sebi in case of financial services.

Heading a business or a firm means regular work routine would require long working hours on a typical day. You will need to ensure the quality of your product if you are into tangible business or seamless of your services if you are a service provider. Starting up all this will need to build up a team that may be small at the start, but shares the same perspective as your vision. Not to say work pressure levels are high at the beginning with an imbalance work life.

Salary/Package

The starting salaries would be very low because running a business means initial investments and not expecting the regular salary as other professions in the beginning. But as Entrepreneurs start to climb the ladder up, the operations and the day-to-day activity becomes smooth. You will be drawing a meaningful salary at this stage as the basics of the business are already in place and at a point you would be looking to diversify your business.

There are various job opportunities for the students who have completed their degree in entrepreneurship like job in industries, accounting, office administration, sales to name a few. Any one withholding a degree in Entrepreneurship can earn an average salary between Rs. 3 to 5 lakhs p.a. The salaries may vary drastically based on experience, skills, roles or location.

Skills required

Getting Starting as an entrepreneur needs a risk-taking ability as you may start individually or with a partner
Self-confidence
Ability to promote yourself and develop a positive self-image
You have to be very versatile right from handling clients to managing vendors, and building a team
You need to have a very good communication skill
Ability to work in teams

Pros and Cons of an Entrepreneur

Pros

This is the career for those who want to be their boss
Entrepreneurship can be a highly paid as a profession if your business kick-start well
This is as emerging as the preferred option among students that are willing to go out of the way to do something creative
You may also find fame if your brand or product gets popular between masses

Cons

Work-life balance can be a challenge as you have to manage everything at your firm.
There are no fixed incomes as the Business depends on the market condition.
There can be many blockades from government regulations to tax systems and other day operations today.

How do I be one

To qualify as an Entrepreneur, a student needs to clear their higher secondary with commerce background including accounting, business studies, mathematics and economics. Candidates can opt for BCom (prog)/(Hons) or BBA or diploma in entrepreneurship from DU, IP University or any other reputed college. Students who want to pursue further education can opt for MBA or PG diploma after clearing the CAT exam. Other PG entrance exams include MAT, XAT, CMAT or GMAT.

Commodity Traders

Commodity traders take a futures trading position for farm produce such as grains or for commodities such as precious metals mined from the earth. They buy and sell commodities for making profits in the trade. They sign futures contract which is an agreement for delivery of a particular commodity at a given time and date for a pre-determined price.

Job Profile

Work for trading firms, brokering firms or independently
Take a position in the market for buying a commodity on the basis of their research and expertise to make profit in the commodity trading
Inspect competing farmers plantations for predicting yields and quality
Ascertain the best plantation in terms of yield and quality
Discuss with trading or broking firm or other buyers their demands in terms of quantity and value
Estimate the predicted selling price and make a bid for buying so that the deal is profitable
Work through commodities exchange or directly with the producer
Specialize in commodities such as wheat, rice, soya bean, etc

Salary/Package

An early career Trader, Commodities with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation Rs. 3 lakhs p.a. A mid-career Trader, Commodities with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of Rs. 7.7 lakhs p.a. At a senior-career Trader, Commodities with 10+ years of experience earns an average of Rs. 10.8-25.7 lakhs p.a. The salaries may vary based on experience, skills, roles, location, etc.

Skills required

Excellent negotiating skill
Business and market awareness
Good mathematical skill
Research skills
Ability to analyze micro & macro economic data, industry data and about positions taken by market operators
Emotional balance
Business acumen
Communication skill
Risk taking
Understanding of Indian and International commodity market like CBOT & COMEX
Price forecasting of commodity

Pros and Cons of an Entrepreneur

Pros

Higher growth opportunities
Diversification – Diversification is when you invest in a variety of industries that give results differently to changes in the market
Provide security against inflation

Cons

Highly volatile market – Commodities are most volatile security among other assets
Sometimes no income generation
Stressful environment

How do I be one

Path

Std XII (Stream: Any) >> Graduation (BCom/BEco/BTech/BBA) >> Post Graduation

(MBA/International Business) >> Certification (MCCP) >> Goal (Commodity Traders)

The MCX Certified Commodity Professional (MCCP) course is for those who want to participate in the commodity derivatives market. The MCCP certificate is valid for 3 years. The programme covers modalities of trading in commodity markets, trading practices, settlement, clearing and delivery procedures, legal regulation framework. MCCP examination has 50 questions and minimum qualifying score is 50%.

Reference/Citation