by "You and I come by road or rail, but economists travel on infrastructure."
Finance professionals are highly sought-after in various industries. To stand out in the competitive job market, you must have a strong financial analyst resume that presents your skills and qualifications in the most compelling way to get the attention of potential employers.
This article provides instructions on writing a great financial analyst resume so you can take your career to the next level. We will break down what resume sections to include and how to best phrase certain parts of your document.
You will also see many examples to get an idea of what a perfect resume looks like. Let's begin!
Financial analyst resume examples
Junior financial analyst resume example
Senior financial analyst resume example
Summary
Accomplished Senior Financial Analyst with over a decade of experience in the field. Proven track record of delivering strategic insights to drive business growth and improve financial performance. Adept at leveraging data-driven approaches to optimize decision-making processes. Seeking to apply advanced analytical skills and leadership experience in a challenging role.
Key skills
- Financial modeling and reporting
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Risk assessment and strategic planning
- Business process improvement
- SAS & SQL programming
- Auditing and compliance procedures
- Project management
Work experience
Senior Financial Analyst | Evergreen Financial Group (October 2020 - Present)
Dallas, TX
- Lead a team of financial analysts in preparing annual budgets, resulting in a 10% increase in accuracy and alignment with strategic objectives.
- Develop sophisticated financial models to assess investment opportunities, leading to the identification of a high-yield portfolio resulting in a 20% increase in returns.
Implemented a robust risk management framework, reducing financial risks by 15% and enhancing overall stability.
Financial Analyst | Dynamic Financial Services (June 2015 - October 2020)
Dallas, TX
- Created a budget for bank operations and monitored spending to ensure compliance with established guidelines.
- Used Excel and Business Objects to produce reports on key performance metrics for management review.
- Implemented process improvements to streamline activities and reduce operational costs.
- Developed interactive dashboards for executive decision-making.
Education
- Master of Science in Finance | The University of Texas in Dallas | June 2015
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics | University of Houston | June 2013
Financial analyst certifications
- Certified Fund Specialist | The Institute of Business & Finance (2019)
- Chartered Financial Analyst | CFA Institute (2015)
Corporate financial analyst resume example
Investment banking financial analyst resume example
Summary:
Detail-oriented and results-driven Investment Banking Analyst with 3 years of experience in financial analysis, valuation, and modeling. Proven track record in executing financial transactions and providing strategic advisory services to clients. Strong analytical skills combined with a deep understanding of capital markets and corporate finance.
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Finance
New York University, Stern School of Business
Graduated: May 2021
Certifications:
Chartered Financial Analyst
CFA Institute
- Passed Level I Exam: June 2024
Series 7 and Series 63 licenses
Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA)
- Series 63: Issued: February 2024
- Series 7: Issued: September 2023
Professional Experience:
Investment Banking Analyst
Goldman Sachs, New York, NY
July 2021 - Present
- Execute financial transactions including mergers and acquisitions (M&A), debt and equity offerings, and leveraged buyouts (LBOs).
- Conduct comprehensive financial analysis and due diligence on target companies.
- Prepare pitch books, financial models, and client presentations for senior bankers and clients.
- Assist in the development of marketing materials and offering memoranda.
Financial Analyst Intern
Morgan Stanley, New York, NY
June 2020 - August 2020
- Supported senior analysts in financial modeling and analysis for prospective deals.
- Conducted research on industry trends and market conditions to support investment decisions.
- Assisted in preparing client proposals and presentations.
Skills:
- Proficient in building complex financial models for valuation and forecasting.
- Skilled in conducting due diligence and financial analysis of potential investment opportunities.
- Experienced in using discounted cash flow (DCF), comparable company analysis (CCA), and precedent transactions analysis (PTA).
- Strong ability to research and analyze market trends, industry data, and company finances.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills for preparing client presentations and reports.
Writing style
A significant number of financial analysts are employed by financial firms, which encompass the financial services and insurance sectors. (U.S. News)
When crafting a financial analytics resume, use concise but descriptive language. Incorporate suitable industry keywords that recruiters may search for, like data management, budgeting, predicting, and market trends.
Also, use action-oriented phrasing that explains how your work performance impacted previous companies you worked for. Avoid repeating the same word or using overly technical terms.
Focus on communicating your value clearly. Be consistent with the formatting of your financial analyst resume. Use a professional font (Times New Roman or Arial), and leave enough space between the lines to ensure readability.
Contact details
At the beginning of your financial analyst resume, add personal and contact information. Have it compact and coherent.
Generally, the following data should be shared:
- Full legal name;
- Home address or city where you want to work;
- Valid phone number;
- Professional email address.
You may also mention professional affiliations or memberships if you have any that are relevant to the financial analytics jobs you are applying for.
Resume summary
"I believe that through knowledge and discipline, financial peace is possible for all of us."
A perfect resume summary for a financial analyst must express your skills and experience in the field. Showcase your technical knowledge particular to the role you will be taking on.
Tips for compiling an outstanding financial analyst resume summary:
- Use job-related financial analytics terminology to emphasize your capabilities.
- Keep your financial analyst resume summary compact, focusing only on the most important details. A few short sentences are usually ideal.
- Quantify your achievements using numbers where possible. Point out the primary responsibilities in each job you have had.
See below some resume summary examples for financial analysts.
Example #1:
Experienced Financial Analyst with 6+ years of experience developing, executing, formulating, and employing tactics for maximizing performance and improving efficiencies. Specialist with a history of utilizing advanced analytics to identify trends, form predictions, and manage risk. Skilled at building relationships with stakeholders and providing actionable insights.
Example #2:
Analytical and results-driven finance professional with over 8 years of experience in financial modeling and data analysis. Proven track record of leveraging insights from complex financial data to emerge solutions that improve operational performance and reduce costs. Capable of generating comprehensive financial reports and models that support decision-making processes.
Example #3:
Well-versed financial analyst having 5+ years of working in corporate finance and accounting. Qualified in investment banking, financial analytics, and driving maximizing business outcomes through strategic choices. Proven ability to collaborate effectively with other teams to ensure successful results.
An impressive financial analyst resume summary has to briefly exemplify your background and demonstrate the potential benefits for the organization.
Work experience
In May 2022, financial and investment analysts earned a median annual salary of $95,080, while financial risk specialists had a median annual wage of $102,120 during the same period. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
As you compose your financial analyst employment history, start with the most recent position, and work your way back chronologically. Utilize bullet points to organize your content to make it easier to read.
For each financial analytics role, cover key facts such as the company name, your job title, dates of employment, and key achievements and responsibilities. Include promotions to demonstrate your professional advancement.
Ensure you include internships (most relevant for entry-level jobs), volunteer experiences, or training.
Sample financial analyst resume's job history:
Lead Financial Analyst | Prime Capital Strategies (2020 - Present) Springfield, MA
- Directing the monthly close process with precision, providing insightful analysis of financial results within 48 hours of the period end;
- Serving as a bridge between the finance team and other departments, fostering seamless communication;
- Proactively identifying and implementing process improvements, resulting in cost savings of $50,000 annually;
- Leveraging advanced software proficiency in Excel and QuickBooks to streamline reporting processes, resulting in a 20% reduction in reporting time.
Financial Analyst | Liberty Financial Services (2015 - 2020) Springfield, MA
- Compiled and presented weekly financial reports to the executive team, facilitating informed decision-making and strategic planning initiatives;
- Conducted in-depth market research, delivering analysis on industry trends and investment opportunities, contributing to a 15% increase in investment portfolio performance;
- Executed monthly reconciliation of accounts with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring financial data accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards;
Analytics Intern | Liberty Financial Services (Summer 2014) Springfield, MA
- Assisted the finance team in analyzing financial statements, providing valuable insights into company performance and financial health.
- Supported the implementation of a new budgeting software system by assisting with data entry, testing functionalities, and documenting user feedback.
- Conducted market research and competitive analysis, contributing to the identification of emerging trends and potential opportunities for business development.
Adhering to these suggestions, you will know for a fact that your financial analyst resume stands out from the competition. Check that all information is up-to-date. Mention only pertinent details to display your financial analyst skills in the best way!
Education
Among financial analysts, 76% have obtained a bachelor's degree, while 16% have achieved a master's degree, and 6% hold an associate's degree. (Zippia)
Organization and accuracy should be your top priorities as you list educational financial analyst's qualifications. Academic history is detrimental to any financial analyst's resume in exhibiting your professional expertise.
Begin by listing the name of the institution, the type of degree or certification obtained, and the year it was completed. If you earned several degrees or certificates, list each one separately.
If you don't have much professional experience, you can also reference specific classes, state your GPA, talk about extracurricular activities, mention research topics, etc.
Education should always be listed chronologically, starting with the last attained credentials.
Sample financial analyst resume education section:
Master of Business Administration (MBA) - Harvard Business School, 2021
- Coursework: Financial Reporting and Control. FIELD Global Immersion;
- Certificate of Management Excellence, July 2022.
Bachelor of Science in Accounting | University of Pennsylvania, 2019
- GPA: 3.50;
- Financial Measurement and Disclosure;
- Accounting for Mergers, Acquisitions, and Complex Financial Structures.
It is crucial to reference financial analyst certifications appropriate for the position. These certificates may be allocated to a separate section at the bottom of your financial analyst resume since they are often required for financial analysts.
You may choose to tell about specialized programs or systems you are familiar with and credentials obtained for that technology.
Financial analyst certifications and software examples:
- Wave and Xero Accounting Software training | Udemy (2022)
- Certified Chartered Financial Analyst | CFA Institute (2020)
- Certified International Investment Analyst | The Association of Certified International Investment Analysts (2019)
Finally, in case you have taken any continuing education classes in financial or economic matters, list those as well. Include the course name, the institution, and the date graduated.
Examples of courses for financial analyst resume:
- Corporate Finance (2020), Stanford University
- Economics for Business (2019), Harvard Extension School
Taking the time to clearly describe your educational background on your financial analyst resume will give a prospective employer a better idea of your qualifications. Hence, they will be able to make an informed decision about hiring you.
Financial analyst's skills
On your financial analyst resume, make sure to highlight your key abilities that are pertinent to the role. Here is a list of some of the most valuable hard and soft financial analyst skills.
Soft Skills:
- Communication: Ability to articulate complicated topics in understandable language.
- Critical Thinking: Skillset to break down enormous datasets into manageable parts.
- Problem-Solving: Capacity to discern issues and originate solutions.
- Leadership: Talent to motivate and lead teams to successful outcomes.
- Heed to Detail: Mastery of noticing minor errors or discrepancies in data sets.
- Teamwork: Capability of working together with colleagues for maximum efficiency.
- Troubleshooting: Expertise in searching for issues and testing workable resolutions.
- Time Management: Excellent organizational skills to meet deadlines.
- Negotiation: Artistry to dialogue with clients and partners to compromise on the desired results.
- Adaptability: Flexible mindset to cope with changes.
Hard Skills:
- Financial Modeling. Capacity to generate accurate financial models for forecasting or analysis.
- Database Management. Ability to create and manage databases of financial data sets.
- Financial Reporting. Skilled at generating reports such as balance sheets, income, and cash flow statements.
- Investment Assessment. Understanding of different types of investments and their associated risks.
- Regulatory Compliance. Familiarity with applicable laws and regulations governing financial operations and accounting principles and practices.
- Data Visualization. Ability to analyze data, interpret results and create a visualization for further presentation.
- Risk Management. Utilizing risk managing instruments to determine possible risks and create solution strategies.
- Specialized Software and Tools. Competency in computer systems and software, like Microsoft Office Suite, QuickBooks, etc.
Social media links
A resume for a financial analyst may incorporate social media links, such as LinkedIn, if necessary. It could be a great way to show your professional presence online and reveal your accomplishments.
However, there are pros and cons to consider before including these links.
Pros:
- Social media links on your financial analyst resume can offer recruiters insight into your interest in the latest news in the field.
- Illustrate your competency in the professional field.
- Evidence of your communication skills and analytical capabilities.
Cons:
- If your social media profiles contain inappropriate posts, they may harm your job search.
- Potential employers may form prejudice about you based on your connections and posts.
For instance, by using social media platforms, financial analytics specialist may demonstrate their expertise in the stock market by tweeting about investment predictions. They could also have an Instagram account dedicated to their portfolio, displaying the success rate over time.
Additional information
Between 2022 and 2032, the employment outlook for financial analysts is expected to increase by 8%, surpassing the average growth rate for all occupations. Additionally, it's projected that approximately 27,400 job openings for financial analysts will emerge annually. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Supplementing your financial analyst resume with non-mandatory sections can reveal your capability of doing more than just the basic job requirements. It lets the potential employer know that you are a well-rounded professional.
Here are additional sections of financial analyst resume examples:
- Courses indicate that you have completed supplementary studies to expand your knowledge and stay current with industry changes.
- Hobbies added to your financial analyst resume disclose your activities outside work and engagement with others in various settings.
- Languages can assist in some positions as it opens opportunities to work with partners and customers from other countries.
- Awards show recognition of your effort and dedication in your previous financial analytics jobs.
- References can help vouch for your character. The references may include university professors, supervisors from past jobs, and coworkers. You could choose anyone who can comment on your work ethic and attributes as a financial analyst.
- Certificates are proof of your financial analyst's qualifications, ensuring the hiring department you are a knowledgeable specialist.
You are not limited to these sections only. If you find that there are other details that may strengthen your application, go ahead and add them to your resume.
Use a resume builder
Are you looking for an easy way to create a professional finance resume? The online service Resume Trick provides a great selection of ready-made resume templates that can help you create an impressive document in no time.
Using a template is far easier than writing a financial analyst resume from scratch. You don't need to spend hours trying to figure out what financial analyst's skills to include, and what font size and style to use. etc. All of these are already taken care of for you!
The financial analyst resume templates come with many features, allowing you to customize them according to your needs.
Simple steps of using a resume builder:
- Pick the layout you like.
- Fill in the blanks with your information.
- Add customized sections.
- Use the AI assistant for better phrasing.
So why not give it a try? Get started now with Resume Trick and get your next job right away!
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Writing a financial analyst's cover letter
Crafting a stellar cover letter for the financial analyst role helps protrude amongst other applicants.
Here is some advice on how to construct an effective cover letter for financial analyst roles:
- Research the company. Do a search about the organization you are applying to. Find out as much as possible about their history, values, and culture, and tell how you share them.
- Make your cover letter unique. Do not just copy and paste a generic template. Take time to customize the cover letter to fit the job description and make it memorable.
- Use industry language. Manifest your financial analyst's qualifications by using professional terms and jargon in the letter that signify your understanding of what this job entails.
- Highlight your value. The financial analyst cover letter's main goal is to present yourself as an invaluable addition to the company. Use concrete facts about your experiences and explain how you can help the company achieve its goals.
- Stay strong throughout your writing. Your opening paragraph should engage the hiring manager. Let them know you would love to discuss further how your financial analyst's skills could benefit their business.
- Remain concise. A supporting letter should be one page at maximum and tailored to the specific role you are currently applying for. Stay focused on your qualifications, branding yourself as the ideal candidate. Avoid using long sentences.
- Finish your letter on a solid note. Make sure to thank the employer for their time and expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Even small mistakes like spelling or incorrect grammar can be distracting and discouraging, so read the materials carefully prior to submitting them.
Good financial analyst cover letter example:
Dear Ms. Paul,
I am writing to express my interest in the financial analyst position at Unity National Bank, as advertised on your website. With a Bachelor's degree in Finance and over three years of experience in financial analysis and forecasting, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team.
In my previous role, I honed my skills in financial modeling, data analysis, and report generation. I was responsible for preparing detailed financial reports and conducting thorough market research to identify emerging trends and investment opportunities. Through my analytical abilities, I was able to provide valuable insights to senior management, aiding in strategic decision-making processes.
One of my key strengths is my proficiency in utilizing various financial software and tools, including Excel, Bloomberg Terminal, and SQL. This technical expertise, combined with my strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills, has enabled me to excel in analyzing complex financial data and identifying areas for improvement.
Furthermore, I am highly adaptable and thrive in fast-paced environments. I am accustomed to working under pressure and meeting tight deadlines while maintaining accuracy and quality in my work. My ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with cross-functional teams has allowed me to successfully lead various projects and initiatives.
I am particularly drawn to the opportunity to join Unity National Bank due to its reputation for innovation and excellence in the financial services industry. I am eager to contribute my skills and expertise to help drive the company's success and achieve its strategic objectives.
Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining your team and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background and skills align with the needs of Unity National Bank. Please find my resume attached for your review.
Sincerely,
Michael Eliaston
The above example is effective because it highlights individual financial analyst's skills that make the applicant a valuable asset to the company.
At the same time, it remains focused on why they are qualified for this particular role. Moreover, it reflects on tangible evidence of their past successes, which helps prove their competence in the field.
Bad example of a cover letter for financial analyst positions:
Hi, there!
I saw your job listing on LinkedIn for a Financial Analyst opening. I'm interested in working with you guys and think I have what it takes! I have experience, so I am certain I can do the job well if given a chance!
I would be grateful if you considered me for this job. It would be amazing for me! Please let me know if you need anything else from me - I'm available anytime! Thanks!
Jane M.
This financial analyst cover letter example fails to provide information about the candidate's relevant skills or experience that makes them suitable for the role they are applying for.
It does not offer details about why the applicant wants this position or how they could contribute positively towards achieving company objectives. These are the two significant elements of an acquiring cover letter that should not be overlooked.
The best states to work as a financial analyst based on salary are California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Illinois. The highest demand for these specialists is in New York, NY. (Zippia)
Tips on writing a cover letter for financial analyst resumes with no experience:
- Emphasize your educational background. Highlight the degree you earned that covers financial analysis or forecasting.
- Showcase your analytical skills. Demonstrate your strong abilities by referencing specific examples of projects or tasks you completed successfully in past roles.
- Focus on your professional traits. Display that you are systematically organized, meticulous, and capable of producing thorough reports that are correct and satisfy organizational objectives.
- Highlight transferable skills. Showcase any other skills that you have acquired from past positions that could be beneficial in this role such as communication, customer service, or project management skills.
- Indicate your passion for finance. Express your enthusiasm for the field of finance and your desire to learn more about financial analysis in this role.
Financial analyst cover letter example without work experience:
Dear Mr. Phelps,
I'm seeking a Financial Analyst role with Oceanic Finance Group. I am a recent graduate who is eager to embark on a career in finance and am confident in my ability to learn quickly and contribute effectively to your team.
I recently graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Finance from James Madison University, where I developed a strong foundation in financial analysis, accounting principles, and quantitative methods. Throughout my academic coursework, I demonstrated my ability to analyze financial data, create financial models, and communicate findings effectively through presentations and reports.
During my internship at Frontier Bank, I had the opportunity to assist the finance team with various tasks, including data entry, report generation, and basic financial analysis. This experience allowed me to gain exposure to financial operations and further develop my analytical and organizational skills.
I am passionate about finance and have actively sought opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills. I have completed internships and participated in extracurricular activities that have provided me with valuable insights into the financial services sector.
I am especially attracted to the chance to become a part of Oceanic Finance Group because of its reputation for excellence and commitment to innovation in the financial industry. I am eager to contribute my enthusiasm, dedication, and fresh perspective to the team and am willing to invest the time and effort necessary to succeed in this role.
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of joining your team and am confident that my academic background, combined with my passion for finance, make me a strong candidate for the position.
I look forward to hearing back.
Sincerely,
Anthony K. Nickels
This cover letter for financial analyst's jobs conveys the candidate's understanding of the industry-specific terminology and practices even though they are only beginning their career in financial analytics.
Moreover, this letter highlights their academic history, demonstrating they have the necessary financial analyst skillset for accomplishment in the role.
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Rereading and spellchecking your resume and cover letter for financial analyst applications can significantly impact how your candidacy will be seen. After all, these documents are prospective employers' first impression of you, so it is crucial to guarantee they are polished and professional.
Poor grammar and typos in your financial analyst resume or accompanying letter can lead to a quick rejection. Recruiters may see them as an indication of carelessness and lack of detail negligence.
To make sure that your documents are error-free, here are a few tips:
- Read aloud. Reading your papers out loud is an excellent way to detect mistakes you may have missed.
- Have someone else see your resume. Another person can often locate errors you did not notice.
- Use a spellchecker. Spellcheckers are helpful tools for catching typos, misspellings, and incorrect word usage.
- Relax. Take a break from working and return with fresh eyes. This can help you recognize slip-ups you could have skipped.
Checking your financial analytics application materials is essential for landing the desired job, so take advantage of this step!
Conclusion
A financial analyst's resume should be clear, concise, and easy to read. Maintain it up-to-date and review it periodically for accuracy. Follow the above guidelines and you can be sure of landing the job of your dreams soon!
Use the resume builder to make your professional finance resume stand out!
FAQ
- Should I include an objective statement in my financial analyst resume?
- It can be beneficial if you're transitioning careers or targeting a specific role, as it clarifies your work goals and how they align with the position. However, for experienced professionals or those with clear career paths, a professional summary is more effective.
- How long should my resume for a financial analyst job be?
- Aim for a concise application that is typically one to two pages long, focusing on relevant information and achievements.
- How do I explain employment gaps?
- In your cover letter, mention reasons such as family care, personal growth, continuing education, or relevant freelance work. Focus on how you stayed productive and developed new skills during that time.
- What is ATS?
- It stands for "Applicant Tracking System". ATS is software used by employers to manage and automate the hiring process. It allows companies to collect, sort, scan, and rank job applications based on specific criteria such as keywords, skills, experience, education, and qualifications.
- How do I ensure my financial analyst resume is ATS-friendly?
- Use relevant keywords from the job description, format the resume with standard fonts and headings, and avoid using tables or graphics that may not be compatible with applicant tracking systems.
