Master in Finance graduates build specialized skillsets and gain advanced knowledge in financial principles—but what are the best careers in finance? Check out our Top 5.
The finance industry offers a wealth of rewarding career paths for ambitious professionals. With a Master in Finance, you could unlock high-potential roles and leave a lasting impact on the growth of leading businesses and institutions worldwide.
You’ll be in demand, too. In Western Europe, Master in Finance graduates are increasingly sought-after, with hiring plans set to double over the next five years, according to the 2024 Corporate Recruiter’s Survey by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC).
Grenoble Ecole de Management (GEM) is ranked 8th in France in the Financial Times report on Executive Education published on May 20, 2024.
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Here are the top five careers in finance you can secure with a Master in Finance:
1. Investment Banker
Investment bankers are pivotal figures in the finance industry, involved in advising corporations, institutions, and governments on complex financial transactions.
A job in investment banking is notoriously rigorous, so you’ll need comprehensive knowledge of financial principles and data analysis if you want to succeed.
This is where an MSc in Finance and Investment Banking comes in. At Grenoble Ecole de Management (GEM), students on the program delve into key subjects with classes in investment banking, M&A and company valuation, private equity, leveraged buyouts (LBOs) and venture capital.
A key part of investment banking is skillful negotiation, and nothing beats practical experience. To obtain this, students benefit from an immersive investment banking simulation. Developed by seasoned investment bankers, this simulation allows students to gain first-hand experience with the dynamics of investment banking, deal structuring, and client negotiations.
Stéphanie Boyer, MSc Finance program director.
2. Financial Analyst
Financial analysts play a critical role in assessing the financial health of companies and making recommendations based on their analysis. Using data analysis to inform their decisions, they identify investment opportunities and guide businesses accordingly.
Beyond core financial expertise, analysts need to be aware of ESG issues that could significantly impact a company’s financial performance, such as climate change and social or governance practices. This is where an integration of financial theory, ESG skills, and practical experience in the MSc Sustainable Financial Management at Grenoble can set you up for success.
Stéphanie Boyer, MSc Finance program director.
The MSc Finance programs at Grenoble are recognized by the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) institute, meaning that course learnings are tailored to prepare students for the CFA exams.
3. Financial Controller
Controllers oversee the financial health and reporting accuracy of a company. By developing and maintaining financial processes, ensuring compliance with accounting standards, and managing financial reporting, they ensure the company’s financial integrity and transparency.
Entering the role of a controller requires a strong foundation in accounting principles, exceptional analytical skills, and the ability to communicate complex financial concepts clearly.
With an MSc in Sustainable Financial Management, you’ll gain expertise in international financial reporting and specialized knowledge of integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into financial decision-making.
When it comes to experiential learning, industry professionals become module leads to offer students real-world insights into the finance industry.
Stéphanie Boyer, MSc Finance program director.
4. Private Banker
Private banking is a form of elite wealth management. Responsible for managing the financial activities of high net-worth individuals, private bankers create investment strategies, manage client portfolios, and coordinate across all aspects of a client’s finances.
A strong foundation in core finance, investment analysis, portfolio management, and risk management, is crucial for private bankers. To excel, you’ll need soft skills to negotiate effectively, build long-term client relationships, and make difficult decisions.
At Grenoble, MSc Financial Markets students blend technical expertise with practical experience and essential soft skills. Through classes in advanced financial markets, cutting-edge financial innovations, and Python for asset modeling, student learn the tools to interpret complex financial data.
Complementing this technical foundation, professional development workshops are key to refining those all-important soft skills for client rapport-building.
5. Asset Manager
Asset management professionals manage investments for clients to build wealth. They conduct in-depth market research, buy, sell, and manage investments, and account for clients’ risk tolerance to identify opportunities for growth.
Specialized training in portfolio management, investment modeling, and sustainable asset management is becoming increasingly important as the financial sector shifts towards sustainability. This focus is a cornerstone of the MSc in Financial Markets at Grenoble Ecole de Management.
Stéphanie Boyer, MSc Finance program director.
A Master in Finance provides technical skills and advanced financial knowledge that could open doors to an array of high-potential career paths in the finance industry.
- MSc
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