what is a financial assistant?
As a financial assistant, you support financial accountants or chief finance officers. The role is an excellent entry point into the world of finance. As a highly organised, detail-oriented numbers whizz, you primarily relieve senior staff in the finance department. This involves managing financial documents, processing payments, and maintaining databases. You also assist with monthly reporting and prepare financial statements. In some organisations, you update budgets, while others rely on you for financial planning. You may also help with tax returns. In investment banking, you take on extensive research tasks to support financial analysts. To be effective in this role, you need solid knowledge of accounting and controlling. In specialised companies, additional expertise may be required, such as international tax law, bottom-up analyses, or risk controlling. Curious? Then read on to find out what awaits you as a financial assistant and what career prospects you have.
financial assistant jobsworking as a financial assistant.
Your responsibilities as a financial assistant are quite diverse. However, they do depend on where you work. In addition to your general accounting duties, you will also support specialists. Find out more about your tasks here.
-
your area of responsibility
In your role as a financial assistant, you can expect a variety of tasks such as:
-
prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements
-
manage accounts receivable and accounts payable, including payment transactions; sometimes, expense management is also part of the process
-
record cash transactions
- maintain fixed asset accounting
- create VAT returns, perform sales and input tax reconciliations
- managing finances for third-party funded projects and preparing financial reports at university higher education institutions or research establishments
- contract filing and contract management
- maintenance of financial documents, files, and databases
- monitor the performance of portfolio investments
- analyze and process financial information from associated companies
- research in databases, financial reports, and on the internet
- support reporting to the management team, business partners, and stakeholders
-
-
who are your colleagues?
Just as diverse as your tasks as a financial assistant are your colleagues. Depending on the industry, you might encounter financial accountant, financial analysts, trustees, and auditors. In insurance companies, your main contacts are customer advisors. In a large organisation or global corporation, your points of contact include sales employees, marketing managers, and procurement officers. If you specialise in investment banking, you’ll be working closely with fund managers.
types of financial assistants.
As a financial assistant, you're in demand across all industries. When you choose a company, you're also selecting a specific area of responsibility. In larger organisations, you support the financial accountants. However, you can also specialise. We'll introduce you to different types of finance assistants:
- Financial assistant trust services: In this role, you will handle various trust-related tasks. Typically, you will assist with financial accounting, prepare annual financial statements, and manage payroll accounting. Additionally, you will prepare VAT returns and tax declarations for individuals and legal entities.
- Financial assistant in financial services tax: If you find taxes fascinating, you can specialise in this challenging area. You’ll assist managers by preparing tax assessments and legal documents for tax authorities and courts. With some experience, you’ll review tax returns, tax provisions, and disclosures. You’ll also prepare documentation related to the tax aspects of financing, reorganisations, restructurings, and transformations.
- Financial auditor in business assurance: This exciting field connects you with national and international companies, service organisations, and foundations. You will review annual and group financial statements across various industries and accounting standards. Typically, you prepare tax returns independently. In some cases, you will carry out small audit assignments. Additionally, you support special audits and projects. Sometimes, your manager will also assign you advisory tasks.
- Financial assistant – financial planning: An engaging role with major insurance companies awaits you in this specialised area. You will prepare and follow up on client appointments, documenting relevant data in the advisory system. Your responsibilities also include maintaining customer information, which involves organising, recording, and updating data. Additionally, you will support the non-life insurance department with quotation processes and order processing. As a financial assistant, you will be the first point of contact within the company – face-to-face, over the phone, and via electronic communication.
- Financial assistant investment banking: In investment banking, your primary role is to support financial analysts. You systematically gather all the necessary information related to corporate acquisitions, company investments, or stock market trading. This includes data and facts about the industry, the company itself, and the market environment. If you specialise in stock market trading, you collect information on shares, bonds, currencies, and commodities. Based on your comprehensive data collection, financial analysts analyse and evaluate the information. The more relevant and accurate the facts are, the more effective the recommendations to management will be.
salary as a financial assistant.
A look at the popular job platforms in Switzerland shows you a wide range of gross salaries. This is mainly because, as a financial assistant, you have numerous specialisations available to you. If you work in small firms' accounting departments, you will earn less than in large corporations. Your starting salary also depends on your responsibilities. On average, it is around CHF 72,000 per year, which equates to a monthly salary of CHF 6,000. You can increase your earnings through higher qualifications and work experience. Your place of work also has a significant impact on your monthly pay. Large companies and insurers often pay additional bonuses and commissions. Find out more here about your gross salary as a financial assistant.
-
how much do I earn as a finance assistant in a permanent position?
As a financial assistant, you typically earn between CHF 30,000 and CHF 90,000 gross per year. Converted to monthly pay, that’s roughly CHF 2,500 to CHF7,500. The wide range reflects the variety of tasks involved. With basic commercial training and simple duties, you’ll be on the lower end of the salary scale. If you’re a highly qualified professional taking on more responsible roles, you’ll earn more. Gaining work experience and further training can boost your monthly salary. If bonuses and commissions are included, you can look forward to an attractive gross income. Securing a promising position in Zurich’s financial sector usually means a higher salary compared to roles in rural areas.
-
in which industry do i earn the most as a financial assistant?
Attractive salaries are mainly found at the major financial centres in Zurich and Geneva. As a specialist with work experience in investment banking, you will find exciting opportunities there. However, the requirements are significantly higher than in smaller companies. If you want to establish yourself after completing your basic training, you can start as a financial assistant in a company's accounting department. The public sector, industry, and transport sector offer appealing wages. However, your basic salary isn't always the most telling figure. Some industries, such as retail, may pay lower wages but compensate with additional benefits. Always consider the overall package, including basic salary, extra benefits, and working conditions.
vocational and further education as a financial assistant.
Just as varied as your tasks are the requirements for your training as a financial assistant. For a position in a company's accounting department, a basic commercial education often suffices. Further training as an accounts clerk in accounting can also be beneficial. Ideally, you will have completed this in your future specialist area, such as trust services or financial auditing. For more demanding roles in tax law, companies often require a degree with a bachelor’s or master’s qualification in economics or business informatics. However, as a qualified tax expert, you also have a strong foundation. If you’re aiming for the big insurance companies, it’s best to undertake a basic commercial education in insurance. A VBV qualification or further training as a certified financial advisor IAF can improve your prospects. As a financial assistant, there are numerous opportunities for your professional development. Take advantage of the offerings from industry associations, vocational colleges, universities of applied sciences, and further education centres.
positions as a financial assistant.
Financial assistants are in demand wherever there are accounting and finance departments. If you already have several years of professional experience, banks, insurance companies, and businesses will be vying for you. If salary isn't your top priority, you might find interesting roles in NGOs. However, trustees, auditors, and public sector organisations are also interested in skilled professionals. Are you looking for an attractive position with prospects? Take a look at our current vacancies for financial assistant.
positions for career changers as financial assistants.
Good prospects for starting out as a Financial Assistant include having a basic business education or a degree. Work experience in accounting makes your job search easier. For certain specialisations, such as fiduciary services or auditing, additional qualifications are required. This also presents an opportunity for career changers. If you already have experience in the financial sector, you can acquire any missing skills through further training. Studying a related field, such as Business Economics, can also improve your chances of success.
career opportunities and development potential as a financial assistant.
As a financial assistant, you have an excellent foundation for a successful career in the finance sector. Further training opens up many doors. Every specialised area offers development opportunities. In taxation, you can advance to become a tax expert or an auditor. Chartered banking professionals are highly valued employees within financial service providers. If research and analysis fascinate you, you can specialise as a financial analyst. If you're interested in a managerial role, obtaining a master's degree will give you a strong advantage. A combination of studying economics with a focus on controlling, professional experience, and ambition is unbeatable. Want to develop further as a financial assistant? Take a look at our tests and tips.
competencies as a financial assistant.
As a finance assistant, you support the finance department. In addition to your expertise in accounting, you need to have additional skills and competencies such as:
- IT skills: In your role as a finance assistant, you record receipts, prepare financial statements, and maintain databases. For this, you need specific IT knowledge. You are proficient in the common MS Office programmes. In small businesses, this allows you to, among other things, visually represent financial developments. In larger organisations, you often work with customised software solutions. Your IT affinity helps you to get up to speed quickly. Most companies use databases, inventory management systems, and ERP systems. Professional accounting software makes your bookkeeping easier. Business Intelligence (BI) and analysis tools support you with evaluations and reporting.
- Communication skills: As a finance assistant, you communicate with a variety of people. You know how to interact appropriately with management, business partners, and colleagues. Respectful communication comes naturally to you. Additionally, you are able to translate technical terms into language that is easily understood. This means that colleagues in areas unrelated to accounting can also understand you. Both internal and external contacts appreciate your social skills and your reliable, approachable manner.
- Attention to detail: In your role as a financial assistant, utmost care is essential. Incorrect data, analyses, or reports can have serious consequences. Therefore, you pay close attention to every detail in your work. For example, you check that the correct company address is listed on the invoice. Before authorising a transfer, you verify the bank details. You prefer to double-check before processing payments or recording receipts. If the reports don’t seem plausible, you meticulously review all the figures again. Thanks to your love of detail, you even spot the tiniest errors.
- Research skills: Especially in investment banking, it’s important to effectively support financial analysts. Typically, you do this by taking over the information gathering process. The key is to find the right sources and filter out reliable information. You also demonstrate your research skills by using a variety of sources. These include not only the internet but also financial reports, competitor information, and internal data. The better your data foundation, the more targeted and accurate the recommendations that financial analysts can develop from it.
advantages of working as a financial assistant at randstad.
There are many good reasons to work at Randstad as a financial assistant.
✓ exciting jobs with well-known companies
✓ a reliable point of contact whenever you need one; personalised advice matters
✓ attractive employment conditions and good social benefits
✓ further education courses and personal development opportunities
✓ clear information in the myRandstad app
✓ do you have a fixed-term contract? Often, there’s the opportunity to secure a permanent position afterwards. Many well-known companies also recruit their staff directly through Randstad.
your training budget as a financial assistant at randstad.
If you work as a finance assistant for Randstad, you have access to further training courses. As part of the TempTrainings programme from swissstaffing, you can attend training sessions. You will be reimbursed for the course fees later, provided you pass the course exam. Your consultant from Randstad is there to support you if you have any questions. This way, you can acquire additional language skills or job-specific knowledge, all during your working hours as a finance assistant.
application tips for data analysts at randstad.
Have you found your dream job as a financial assistant? It's not just qualifications and certificates that determine the success of your applications. Careful, error-free, and personalised documents will definitely help you in your job search. Here are a few useful tips to optimise your chances:
-
1. find a position as a finance assistant
Search through Randstad job vacancies. If you can't find a position that’s exactly right for you, you’re still welcome to get in touch with us personally, without any obligation, or to create a Randstad profile.
-
2. applying as a financial assistant
The job advert continues: apply online, give us a call, or send us an email.
Make sure your documents are complete.✓ CV with photo
✓ employment references & diplomasYou don't have a CV yet, or only an outdated version? Create a new layout using an online free template.
-
3. preparing for a job interview as a financial assistant
A good preparation helps you stay calm during your interview for a finance assistant role. Here are some tips for your interview.
frequently asked questions.
Here you will find frequently asked questions and the answers regarding the role of financial assistant.
-
what does a finance assistant do?
As a finance assistant, you support the management team in the finance department with their daily routines. Your responsibilities depend on where you work. In a company's accounting department, you manage financial documents, process payments, and keep databases up to date. You assist with monthly reporting and prepare financial statements. With insurance companies, you help out with financial planning. For trustees and auditors, you prepare VAT returns and tax declarations. Additionally, you review annual and group accounts. As a financial assistant, you lighten the load by conducting extensive research. Sounds exciting? Find out more about your role as a finance assistant here.
-
how much do I earn as a finance assistant?
Your gross salary as a financial assistant ranges between 36,000 and 108,000 CHF per year. The wide range depends on several factors. Your tasks, level of responsibility, and training all play a significant role. Additionally, your professional experience can positively impact your salary. Besides your basic pay, some companies also offer attractive additional benefits. Read more here about your gross salary as a financial assistant.
-
is a financial assistant a good profession?
Your role as a finance assistant is an excellent entry point into the world of finance. You gain experience in your chosen specialist area. As someone who is detail-oriented, IT-savvy, and enjoys working with numbers, you find the job really rewarding. The better you get to grips with your tasks, the more effectively you can support the management team in the finance department. As a result, you will be entrusted with more responsible duties. The profession of finance assistant offers you excellent prospects. Through further training, you can specialise and aim for a managerial position. An attractive salary rewards your commitment. Are you curious about what awaits you as a finance assistant? Then read on.
-
is the financial assistant difficult?
In your role as a financial assistant, everything revolves around numbers and how you can best support your managers. You specialise in specific areas and take your responsibilities very seriously. You must not afford to make mistakes, as they can have serious consequences. That’s why your job is quite demanding. In return, it offers you a variety of interesting and engaging tasks. Through your apprenticeship or studies, you prepare yourself for the professional challenges ahead. In your career, you are constantly developing and adapting to changing circumstances. Thanks to your strong communication skills and attention to detail, you will love the profession and its prospects. Find out here what makes the role of a financial assistant both exciting and challenging.
-
do I need experience to become a financial assistant?
Most companies, banks, and insurance firms require financial assistants to have relevant work experience. Particularly in trust services, auditing, and investment banking, gaining practical experience significantly boosts your chances. If you complete foundational training in accounting, you will already acquire some professional experience during your apprenticeship. Further qualifications are necessary for areas such as taxation, financial planning, and investment banking. Career changers with several years of relevant experience also have good prospects of securing an attractive position. Missing skills can be developed through additional training. Not sure if your qualifications are sufficient? Read more here about all the essential skills you need as a financial assistant.
-
what requirements do I need to meet to become a financial assistant?
The numerous specialisations within the finance sector require different qualifications. In some companies, a completed basic education combined with further training in accounting is sufficient. Tax experts and auditors often require a master's degree in economics. If you have a specialisation in controlling, your chances of securing an attractive job increase. Insurers favour candidates with a VBV qualification. In addition to professional knowledge and work experience, IT skills, attention to detail, and research abilities are highly valued. Career changers with relevant work experience and ambition also have good prospects. Discover our current openings for finance assistants here.
-
how do I apply for a vacant position as a financial assistant?
We make applying for the finance assistant position straightforward for you. First, you create a profile on Randstad. Then, you browse our job board for available roles in your area or specifically in Zurich. Found an interesting opportunity? Simply send us your application letter along with your CV and certificates. Not sure where to start or need some help with your application? Our tips will guide you in putting together a compelling application.