How do you become a Financial Director?

In charge of corporate financial policy, the Administrative and Financial Director (AFD) is one of the CEO’s closest colleagues. Responsible for the company’s accounts, this excellent communicator and astute observer is a true manager in every sense of the term. What qualifications do you need to become a Financial Director? Which educational establishments offer the most appropriate foundation? What do you need to be accepted by these establishments? The academic pathway to the career of Financial Director.

Top-level credentials

Often with a degree in management, finance and accounting, economics, business laws or human resources, candidates for a post as Financial Director will also need to show years of experience in accounting, management and auditing. Often requiring an entrance examination, the grandes écoles are an ideal route for accessing major roles in the finance sector:

Business and Management Schools
Engineering Schools
Institutes of Political Political Studies

What recruiters are looking for

General initial experience with an accounting or audit firm followed by experience before entering the corporate world is the traditional way of moving towards the role of AFD. 5 to 10 years’ experience in the role of Administrative and Financial Manager (RAF) is often required.

Any CV submitted for the role of Financial Director needs to show a number of clearly defined major projects as proof of career progression, with the continuous acquisition of skills and experience throughout. It also needs to show concrete achievement in these areas.