The career of a chartered accountant is becoming even better padded, with an almost 10% rise in the average salary package in Leinster, coming on top of a 13% rise in 2015, so that a CA can now expect €109,760 per annum in their pay packet.

The data comes from a survey of 1,100 chartered accountants carried out by the Chartered Accountants Leinster Society in association with The Panel search and selection consultancy. The research reveals that 75% of chartered accountants have seen their salary increase by at least 10% over the last three years.

The average salary package for a CA working in industry in their first year after qualification now stands at €56,800. For those working in financial services in their first year, the average package rises to €58,100.

As well as rising salaries, the survey indicates a healthy level of career progression within the profession, with 41% of those surveyed having been promoted in the last three years. And 88% of CAs find the jobs market positive. Just 2% of respondents were unemployed at the time of the survey.

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Shane McAleer of Chartered Accountants Leinster commented: “At the younger end of the profession, we are seeing strong demand for trainees, and chartered accountancy remains the largest employer of new graduates in Ireland.

“We are seeing more training vacancies available in businesses and practices across Ireland for graduates of all backgrounds, and greater flexibility for those who are interested in training. We believe that the survey shows that Chartered Accountancy remains the leading accountancy qualification in Ireland due to its attractive rewards, international opportunities and rapid career progression.”

Most chartered accountants work in industry, business and financial services — 76% of respondents work in these sectors, while 24% work in practice.

Photo: Shane McAleer and Louise O’Leary of The Panel. (Pic: Iain White)