RTSWS ACC Finance Career Pathways
At Rock The Street, Wall Street, we equip high school girls with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the dynamic world of finance. Whether you’re interested in analyzing investments, leading corporate sustainability initiatives, or crafting financial strategies, the finance industry offers countless pathways for growth and impact. This page highlights detailed career profiles for key roles in finance, showcasing the skills, education, and earning potential required to excel. Explore these opportunities and take the first step toward a successful future in finance!
Your Path to Success in Finance Starts Here
Discover finance career opportunities, skills, education requirements, and earning potential to take the first step toward your future.
Financial Analyst
Overview: Financial Analysts provide insights and recommendations based on financial data to help businesses make informed decisions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Analyze financial statements and reports
- Develop financial models
- Forecast economic conditions
- Advise on investments
Essential Skills:
- Strong analytical and quantitative skills
- Proficiency in financial software (e.g., Excel, Bloomberg)
- Attention to detail
- Effective communication and presentation skills
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, accounting, or a related field
- Optional certifications: CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|
| Junior Financial Analyst | $55,000 – $70,000 |
| Senior Financial Analyst | $75,000 – $95,000 |
| Financial Manager | $100,000 – $130,000 |
| Director of Financial Planning & Analysis | $130,000 – $160,000 |
| Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | $180,000 – $300,000+ |
Insurance Agent
Overview: Insurance Agents assist clients in choosing insurance policies that fit their needs and help them understand the terms and coverage.
Key Responsibilities:
- Sell insurance policies
- Explain policy details and coverage
- Assist clients with claims
- Maintain client relationships
Essential Skills:
- Sales and negotiation skills
- Customer service orientation
- Analytical skills
- Excellent communication skills
Education Path:
- High school diploma; bachelor’s degree in business or finance preferred
- Required licensure and certifications (e.g., CPCU – Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter)
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Insurance Sales Agent | $35,000 – $55,000 |
| Senior Insurance Agent | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| Insurance Sales Manager | $75,000 – $100,000 |
| Regional Sales Manager | $100,000 – $130,000 |
| Vice President of Sales | $130,000 – $180,000+ |
Corporate Governance (ESG)
Overview: Professionals in Corporate Governance with a focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues ensure companies adhere to ethical standards and regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop sustainability strategies
- Ensure compliance with regulations
- Report on ESG metrics
- Engage with stakeholders
Essential Skills:
- Understanding of ESG principles
- Strong research and analytical skills
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills
- Attention to detail
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in business, law, environmental science, or a related field
- Certifications in ESG or sustainability practices (e.g., SASB, GRI)
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| ESG Analyst | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| ESG Manager | $80,000 – $100,000 |
| Director of ESG | $100,000 – $130,000 |
| VP of Corporate Responsibility | $130,000 – $170,000 |
| Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) | $170,000 – $250,000+ |
Credit Analyst
Overview: Credit Analysts assess the creditworthiness of individuals or businesses applying for loans, ensuring that financial institutions make informed lending decisions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Analyze financial statements and credit data
- Evaluate risk factors
- Prepare credit reports
- Make recommendations on lending decisions
Essential Skills:
- Analytical and quantitative skills
- Proficiency in financial analysis software
- Attention to detail
- Strong communication skills
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field
- Optional certifications: Credit Risk Certification (CRC)
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Junior Credit Analyst | $50,000 – $65,000 |
| Senior Credit Analyst | $65,000 – $85,000 |
| Credit Manager | $85,000 – $110,000 |
| Director of Credit Risk | $110,000 – $140,000 |
| Chief Risk Officer | $140,000 – $200,000+ |
Research Analyst
Overview: Research Analysts gather and analyze data on securities, industries, markets, and economies to support investment decisions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct research on financial data
- Prepare reports and presentations
- Monitor market trends
- Provide investment recommendations
Essential Skills:
- Strong analytical skills
- Proficiency in data analysis tools
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Knowledge of financial markets
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field
- Optional certifications: CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Junior Research Analyst | $55,000 – $70,000 |
| Senior Research Analyst | $70,000 – $90,000 |
| Research Manager | $90,000 – $120,000 |
| Director of Research | $120,000 – $150,000 |
| Chief Investment Officer (CIO) | $150,000 – $250,000+ |
Accountant/Auditor
Overview: Accountants and Auditors prepare and examine financial records to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare financial statements
- Conduct audits
- Ensure regulatory compliance
- Analyze financial data
Essential Skills:
- Strong numerical and analytical skills
- Proficiency in accounting software
- Attention to detail
- Understanding of accounting principles
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field
- Required certifications: CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Junior Accountant/Auditor | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| Senior Accountant/Auditor | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| Accounting Manager | $80,000 – $100,000 |
| Director of Accounting | $100,000 – $130,000 |
| Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | $130,000 – $200,000+ |
Financial Planner/Budget Analyst
Overview: Financial Planners help clients manage their finances, and Budget Analysts prepare budget reports and monitor spending.
Key Responsibilities:
- Advise clients on financial planning
- Develop budgets
- Monitor financial performance
- Provide investment advice
Essential Skills:
- Analytical and numerical skills
- Proficiency in financial planning software
- Excellent communication skills
- Knowledge of tax laws
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field
- Optional certifications: CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Financial Planning Assistant/Budget Analyst | $50,000 – $65,000 |
| Financial Planner/Budget Analyst | $65,000 – $85,000 |
| Senior Financial Planner/Budget Analyst | $85,000 – $110,000 |
| Director of Financial Planning/Budgeting | $110,000 – $140,000 |
| Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | $140,000 – $200,000+ |
Portfolio Manager
Overview: Portfolio Managers oversee investment portfolios, making strategic decisions to meet clients’ financial goals.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage investment portfolios
- Analyze market trends
- Make asset allocation decisions
- Communicate with clients
Essential Skills:
- Strong analytical skills
- Knowledge of financial markets
- Excellent decision-making skills
- Proficiency in portfolio management software
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field
- Advanced degrees (MBA) and certifications (CFA) recommended
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Portfolio Analyst | $65,000 – $80,000 |
| Assistant Portfolio Manager | $80,000 – $100,000 |
| Portfolio Manager | $100,000 – $130,000 |
| Senior Portfolio Manager | $130,000 – $160,000 |
| Chief Investment Officer (CIO) | $160,000 – $300,000+ |
Financial Sales
Overview: Financial Sales professionals sell financial products and services, such as insurance, investments, and banking services.
Key Responsibilities:
- Sell financial products
- Develop and maintain client relationships
- Provide customer service
- Meet sales targets
Essential Skills:
- Sales and negotiation skills
- Customer service orientation
- Knowledge of financial products
- Excellent communication skills
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, or marketing
- Required licensure and certifications depending on the products sold
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Financial Sales Representative | $40,000 – $55,000 |
| Senior Financial Sales Representative | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| Sales Manager | $75,000 – $100,000 |
| Regional Sales Manager | $100,000 – $130,000 |
| Vice President of Sales | $130,000 – $180,000+ |
Investment Banker
Overview: Investment Bankers assist companies in raising capital, provide strategic advisory services, and manage mergers and acquisitions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Raise capital for companies
- Advise on mergers and acquisitions
- Conduct financial analysis
- Prepare financial documents
Essential Skills:
- Strong analytical skills
- Proficiency in financial modeling
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills
- Ability to work under pressure
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, or economics
- Advanced degrees (MBA) and certifications (Series 79) often required
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Analyst | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| Associate | $100,000 – $150,000 |
| Vice President | $150,000 – $200,000 |
| Director | $200,000 – $300,000 |
| Managing Director | $300,000 – $600,000+ |
Broker/Trader
Overview: Brokers and Traders buy and sell securities on behalf of clients or firms, monitoring market conditions and executing trades.
Key Responsibilities:
- Execute trades
- Monitor market trends
- Manage portfolios
- Advise clients
Essential Skills:
- Strong analytical skills
- Knowledge of trading platforms
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to make quick decisions
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance or economics
- Required licensure (e.g., Series 7 and Series 63)
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Junior Broker/Trader | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| Senior Broker/Trader | $70,000 – $100,000 |
| Trading Manager | $100,000 – $150,000 |
| Director of Trading | $150,000 – $200,000 |
| Head of Trading/CIO | $200,000 – $400,000+ |
Actuary
Overview: Actuaries use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to study uncertain future events, especially those of concern to insurance and pension programs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Analyze statistical data
- Create probability tables
- Develop insurance policies
- Assess financial risks
Essential Skills:
- Strong mathematical and analytical skills
- Proficiency in statistical software
- Attention to detail
- Excellent problem-solving skills
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in actuarial science, mathematics, statistics, or a related field
- Required certifications: Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA) or Fellow of the Casualty Actuarial Society (FCAS)
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Actuarial Analyst | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| Associate Actuary | $80,000 – $110,000 |
| Actuary | $110,000 – $140,000 |
| Senior Actuary | $140,000 – $180,000 |
| Chief Actuary | $180,000 – $250,000+ |
Wealth Manager
Overview: Wealth Managers provide financial advice and services to high-net-worth individuals, helping them manage their investments and plan for the future.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop financial strategies
- Manage investment portfolios
- Advise on tax and estate planning
- Build and maintain client relationships
Essential Skills:
- Strong analytical and financial planning skills
- Proficiency in wealth management software
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- In-depth knowledge of investment strategies
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field
- Certifications: Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Chartered Wealth Manager (CWM)
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Wealth Management Associate | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| Wealth Manager | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| Senior Wealth Manager | $120,000 – $160,000 |
| Director of Wealth Management | $160,000 – $220,000 |
| Head of Wealth Management | $220,000 – $350,000+ |
Compliance Officer
Overview: Compliance Officers ensure that companies operate within the law and follow regulations relevant to their business.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop compliance programs
- Conduct audits and investigations
- Implement compliance policies
- Advise on risk management
Essential Skills:
- Strong understanding of regulatory requirements
- Attention to detail
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
- Effective communication skills
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, law, or a related field
- Certifications: Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) or Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM)
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Compliance Analyst | $55,000 – $75,000 |
| Compliance Officer | $75,000 – $95,000 |
| Senior Compliance Officer | $95,000 – $120,000 |
| Compliance Manager | $120,000 – $150,000 |
| Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) | $150,000 – $220,000+ |
Quantitative Analyst (Quant)
Overview: Quantitative Analysts use mathematical models to develop trading strategies and manage financial risks.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop quantitative models
- Conduct statistical analysis
- Implement trading strategies
- Manage financial risks
Essential Skills:
- Strong mathematical and programming skills
- Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., MATLAB, R, Python)
- Analytical thinking
- Problem-solving skills
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, mathematics, statistics, or a related field
- Advanced degrees (MS/PhD) in quantitative finance or financial engineering are often required
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Quantitative Research Analyst | $80,000 – $110,000 |
| Quantitative Analyst | $110,000 – $140,000 |
| Senior Quantitative Analyst | $140,000 – $180,000 |
| Quantitative Research Manager | $180,000 – $220,000 |
| Head of Quantitative Research | $220,000 – $300,000+ |
Financial Controller
Overview: Financial Controllers oversee the financial operations of a company, ensuring accuracy in financial reporting and compliance with regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage accounting operations
- Prepare financial statements
- Ensure compliance with financial regulations
- Oversee budgeting and forecasting
Essential Skills:
- Strong accounting and financial management skills
- Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP)
- Attention to detail
- Excellent leadership and communication skills
Education Path:
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field
- Certifications: CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or CMA (Certified Management Accountant)
Career Progression & Average Salaries:
| Position | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Assistant Controller | $80,000 – $110,000 |
| Financial Controller | $110,000 – $150,000 |
| Senior Financial Controller | $150,000 – $180,000 |
| Director of Finance | $180,000 – $220,000 |
| Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | $220,000 – $300,000+ |
RTSWS Free Finance Career Quiz
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