Employment among financial managers is expected to grow 9 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations. However, growth will vary by industry.
Services provided by financial managers, such as planning, directing, and coordinating investments, will continue to be in demand as the economy grows. The United States remains an international financial center, meaning that the economic growth of countries around the world will likely contribute to employment growth in the U.S. financial industry.
Employment of financial managers in management of companies and enterprises is expected to grow by 3 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations. However, employment of self-employed financial managers is expected to grow at 20 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations.
Overall growth of employment for financial managers will be limited by expected employment declines in depository credit intermediation. This industry includes commercial banking and savings institutions, and employs the largest percent of these managers. From 2010 to 2020, employment of financial managers is expected to decline 14 percent in the depository credit intermediation industry.
As with other managerial occupations, jobseekers are likely to face competition because the number of job openings is expected to be fewer than the number of applicants. Candidates with expertise in accounting and finance—particularly those with a master's degree or certification—should enjoy the best job prospects. An understanding of international finance and complex financial documents is important.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition