A financial planning manager is a professional who assists individuals and organizations in gaining the greatest degree of financial stability while reducing risk and generating the highest profits. Professionals who act as financial advisers tend to work with individuals and smaller organizations. Financial analysts, on the other hand, consult managers and executives of large organizations and manage investments, such as stocks and bonds. To become a financial planning manager, it is a good idea to get an educational background in a subject such as accounting, finance, or economics. It can also be a good idea to begin in an entry level position at a financial planning firm or in the finance department of a business.
In most cases, there are no degrees or certifications necessary to become a financial planning manager. Many professionals in this field, however, do tend to hold degrees in finance or economics. Academic programs provide a great opportunity for aspiring financial planners to learn about important principles and terminology.
Many employers prefer to hire applicants who have degrees in related financial fields. An employer might view a college degree from a reputable school as proof of a job candidate's proficiency in necessary financial skills. In more competitive job markets, an individual who would like to become a financial planning manager can benefit from a graduate degree. Business graduate schools also are good places to network with potential employers, colleagues, leads, and references.
Students in business programs often participate in internships. A finance student who would like to become a financial planning manager can get his or her foot in the door by interning in a finance department or for a financial services firm. Many students earn their first positions at companies where they have interned.
In most cases, an aspiring financial planning manager should compose a resume to distribute to potential employers. A resume is a document that lists each relevant instance of a person's educational and work experience. Below each listing, an individual should list skills he or she acquired through a corresponding experience.
To become a financial planning manager, it is important to have ideas about which career route you would like to take since this can determine the jobs to which you should apply. For example, if you are interested in becoming a financial adviser who works with individual investors, you may want to look for entry level positions in financial services firms that specialize in assisting individuals. Professionals who are more interested in a career in business finance can start by looking for positions in finance departments.
