Financial analyst job description

What is the role of a financial analyst?

The job of a financial analyst is based on three main activities: gathering information, analysing data and producing recommendations.

Initially, this specialist collects data from financial statements, economic reviews and annual reports that can be used as a basis for his or her analysis. He or she may also talk to the directors of the various departments to obtain concrete information in order to evaluate the company from different angles: human resources, profitability, restructuring, etc.

Using all this information, the financial analyst analyses and interprets the data collected to evaluate the value of the company. From this analysis, this expert identifies the organisation's development prospects and assesses the level of financial risk. These studies enable him/her to produce recommendations for management or clients as to the strategic direction to adopt. The financial analyst also provides advice on investment opportunities.

Where can I work as a financial analyst?

The job of financial analyst is generally carried out in a company or financial institution such as a bank or insurance company. This type of profile is also of interest to stock market investment companies and independent research firms, which are potential employers.

What are the key skills for becoming a financial analyst?

The job of a financial analyst requires various key professional skills. First and foremost, this professional must have excellent knowledge of finance (stock market system, balance sheet, financial models, etc.) and expertise in financial products (money market, bonds, etc.). He or she is familiar with accounting standards, legal issues and has a solid general economic culture. The financial analyst has a thorough knowledge of the sector of activity and the market in which it operates.

In terms of personal qualities, analytical skills, rigour, the ability to synthesise, a taste for figures and the ability to adapt are highly valued for this type of position. In order to interact with his colleagues and to transmit his ideas effectively, the financial analyst also has good interpersonal skills.

The master's degree in market finance provides future graduates with technical skills relating to financial analysis in its entirety: portfolio management, financial markets, applied mathematics, financial strategy, securities transactions and share issues. The Master's in Corporate Finance allows students to specialise in financial management in order to train for jobs in management control, auditing and corporate finance consulting. These two courses offer different specialisations allowing you to focus your skills on a particular field.

Within IPAG's Grande Ecole Programme, future graduates benefit from a significant immersion in the business world, professional perspectives in various finance professions, and numerous opportunities to develop an international career.