Top 5 Accounting Jobs for 2025
Accounting is no longer just about number crunching. Modern accountants are strategic advisors and key players in business sustainability. AI, machine learning, and data-driven decision-making are revolutionizing the field. These five accounting jobs are expected to be in high demand by 2025, reflecting the profession’s transformative trends:
Sustainability Accounting Specialist
- Average Salary: $110,000 (projected for 2025)
- Projected Job Growth: 15% from 2020 to 2030
According to a 2022 KPMG survey, 96% of the world’s largest 250 companies report on their sustainability performance. The demand for sustainability reporting is only expected to increase, driven by investor pressure, regulatory requirements, and consumer expectations. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) predicts that by 2025, sustainability reporting will be as common and standardized as financial reporting is today.
2. Forensic Accountant
Average Salary: $102,000 (projected for 2025)
Projected Job Growth: 15% from 2020 to 2030
Forensic accountants will be in high demand with the increasing sophistication of financial crimes by 2025. These professionals will use advanced data analytics and AI tools to detect fraud and financial irregularities more efficiently.
3. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Accountant
Average Salary: $98,000 (projected for 2025)
Projected Job Growth: 20% from 2020 to 2030
This emerging role will be crucial by 2025 as companies face increasing pressure to report on their ESG performance. ESG accountants will be responsible for measuring, reporting, and assuring an organization’s environmental and social impact alongside its financial performance.
4. IT Auditor
Average Salary: $92,000 (projected for 2025)
Projected Job Growth: 18% from 2020 to 2030
As businesses become increasingly digital, the need for IT auditors will grow significantly. These professionals will ensure the integrity and security of financial systems and data.
5. Management Accountant
Average Salary: $88,000 (projected for 2025)
Projected Job Growth: 7% from 2020 to 2030
Management accountants will continue to be valuable, but their role will evolve. By 2025, they’ll be expected to provide more strategic insights, leveraging big data analytics and predictive modeling to support business decision-making.
The Future of Finance and Accounting
By 2025, the finance and accounting sectors will be significantly transformed by technology.
Key trends shaping these industries include:
- Automation and AI: Routine tasks will be increasingly automated, freeing professionals to focus on strategic activities. The World Economic Forum predicts that by 2025, the time spent on current tasks at work by humans and machines will be equal.
- Data Analytics: Big data will play a crucial role, with professionals needing to develop robust data analysis skills.
- Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies: These technologies will continue to disrupt traditional finance. Gartner predicts that by 2025, blockchain will support the global movement and tracking of $2 trillion worth of goods and services annually.
- Sustainability Focus: ESG considerations will become integral to financial and accounting practices. According to PwC, 76% of consumers will discontinue relations with companies that treat employees, communities, and the environment poorly.
- Remote Work: The trend towards remote work will continue, with Upwork predicting that 22% of the American workforce will be remote by 2025.
The finance and accounting industries are on the cusp of significant transformation as we approach 2025. While traditional roles will continue to be necessary, they will evolve to incorporate new technologies and address emerging challenges.
For those considering a career in these fields, developing a mix of financial acumen, technological proficiency, and soft skills like adaptability and critical thinking is crucial. Continuous learning will be vital to staying relevant in this rapidly changing landscape.
Whether you’re drawn to the strategic role of a CFO, the investigative nature of forensic accounting, the innovative world of fintech, or the growing field of ESG accounting, there is an exciting career path ahead for you.
As you plan your career path, it’s crucial to consider not only the current job market but also where industries are headed. In 2025 and beyond, the most successful professionals will be those who can adapt to emerging technologies, harness the power of data, and deliver strategic insights that fuel business success in an evolving global economy. Consider enrolling in CIAT’s Business Administration program to gain the skills needed to thrive and use our career services to gain an advantage in this dynamic landscape. With a focus on modern business strategies and hands-on learning, you’ll be prepared to lead the future of business innovation.
*All salary information is from Glassdoor as of 2024
