Accountants on the Move: Asia Pacific Survey Results 2010-2012

Job Search Button Blue 240x160Six in ten accountants in the Asia Pacific region will be looking for a new job over the next 6-12 months, with more than a quarter (27%) immediately looking to move.

According to the research by global job board CareersinAudit.com, nearly half of the accountants on the move are looking to work abroad (43%), whilst others (13%) are looking for better pay and a promotion, are not happy with the company culture (11%) or want to work in-house or in a different industry sector (11%).

Yet eight in ten accountants surveyed admitted they would consider moving abroad for their next job role, with the Middle East ranking as the top destination.

Nearly a third (32%) would do so in search of better career progression, nearly a quarter feel they would get a better work life balance, and nearly a fifth (19.5%) would like a better salary.

Perhaps part of the problem may be that six in ten accountants believe their company could be providing more training, coaching and support and that career development is low on the company’s priorities. They feel their bosses should be:

  • Providing better communication on career paths, current level and achievements
  • Setting out a structured career development programme for staff to work towards
  • Providing training courses and paying for staff to attend seminars
  • Providing better work knowledge and training for any new products or assignments
  • Providing career coaches/mentors on site


Simon Wright, Director of CareersinAudit Asia Pacific adds

“The results of our survey give a clear indication that many auditors are prepared to move thousands of miles away to progress their career.

Bosses cannot afford to be complacent. With so many accountants looking to move, they need to put measures in place which will persuade them to stay.

Companies need to set out a structured career development path, so employees are clear how to work to the next stage and get promoted or receive a pay rise. If they don’t, there could be a dearth of good talent in the region.”

 

Other highlights of the research include:

  • Four in ten accountants envisage they will leave the profession within 2-5 years
  • More than half (51%) of those accountants will be doing so to set up their own business or start a new career
  • Many accountants are now using LinkedIn (ranked no 2 choice after recruitment agencies) and other social media channels to find their job

Please click here for a copy of the report


The research took place in June 2012 amongst 1,231 accountants across the globe. Those who took part work in a wide range of positions including graduates, auditors, managers, senior managers, financial controllers, financial directors, CFOs and partners.

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