• SKILL LEVEL:
  • Proficient

Management accountant


What is a management accountant and what do they do?

The role of a management accountant can exist in all and any types of industry in the public or private sectors. This role combines accounting, finance and management to prepare internal financial reports and provide insight into business performance. The objective is to help senior management use financial information to inform business strategy, as well as contributing to decision-making that will ensure business growth and long-term success.

Management accountants use financial and non-financial data to paint a complete picture of the business. They may gather information on revenue, cash flow and outstanding debts to spot trends, gather stats, write reports that support day-to-day management decision-making and help drive strategy and planning. Professionals in this field will oversee the development of accounting procedures and financial policies, as well as preparing forecasts, budgets and risk analysis. They often contribute to efficiency and cost reduction through the identification and implementation of more effective processes and strategies and may also have accountability for establishing and maintaining management information systems.

Capabilities

While the accountancy profession offers diverse career options and paths, the core capabilities required to perform at the highest standards remain the same - irrespective of skill level or job role.

Collaboration Digital Drive Ethics Expertise Insight Sustainability
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Continuing professional development at ACCA

A commitment to life-long learning is a vital part of your ACCA membership; it unlocks the full potential of your career choices - and drives forward the profession.

We deliver a wide range of CPD resources tailored to different areas of expertise - and an ever-changing profession. Our, and your, commitment to quality CPD ensures you will have the most up-to-date skills to perform at the highest standard. 

So, get started (or restarted) and take a look at our curated list of the most relevant CPD resources to secure and succeed in this role.

units 12

Online course

Financial management 10 course pack

This ten course pack from BPP is designed to provide you with essential guidance and knowledge on financial management. These courses will develop the skills needed to carry out your day-to-day job.

By completing this pack, you will gain a better understanding of:
 

  • how to plan your organisation's finances
  • budgeting
  • expenses
  • cash and credit
  • working capital
  • supply chain management. 
units 21

Online course

Financial management pick 'n' mix

Financial management is at the heart of every successful business. It affects every aspect, from cash management to forecasting. Learn how to contribute to the financial control and strategy of your organisation.

Create your pick 'n' mix bundle from a range of financial management courses including:
 

  • building a spreadsheet forecasting model
  • cash management
  • corporate treasury KPIs
  • financing opportunities for SMEs
  • forecasting for financial managers
  • foreign exchange
  • improving business profits
  • operational cost savings and efficiencies
  • strategic financial management.
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units 5

Online course

Strategic accounting 5 course pack

This five-course pack from BPP has been designed to enable accountants to develop their strategic thinking and analytical skills. Simply meeting month-
end goals are not enough for today's finance professional. Raise your profile and increase your employability by having a strong grasp of strategic thinking.

By completing this pack, you will gain a better understanding of: 
 

  • how to identify change and develop a strategy for your organisation
  • formal strategic development models
  • how to align core functions with strategic business objectives, improving your organisation's productivity and effectiveness
  • how to use analytics to measure your strategic success
  • how to include working capital in the strategic approach for your business.
Find more CPD resources on ACCA Learning

How does the ACCA Qualification prepare you for this job role?

From a combination of exams, ethics and experience, the ACCA Qualification will boost your employability and performance at every stage of your career journey.

Here we have listed some elements of the ACCA Qualification that will help you perform at the highest standard in this job role.

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Case study for this role

From AB magazine interview

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The view from Caroline McCloskey ACCA

Management accountant, Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs 
Read