15 Highest Paid Finance Jobs That Most People Miss in 2025

The highest paid finance jobs currently offer median salaries of $79,050 — that’s a whopping 66% higher than the national median of $48,060. If you’re hunting for financial stability and career growth, the timing couldn’t be better.

With nearly one million finance positions opening annually over the next decade, the industry is growing faster than most sectors at an impressive 8% rate. This surge in highest paying finance jobs isn’t just due to industry expansion but also retirements and career changes creating fresh opportunities.

What’s truly eye-opening are the salary potentials in top finance careers. Chief Financial Officers earn between $142,000 to $250,000 annually, while investment bankers take home an average of $144,000. Even financial analysts (averaging $95,000) and advisors ($80,000) significantly out-earn professionals in many other fields.

In this article, we’ll explore 15 lucrative finance careers that often fly under the radar. From specialized roles like Blockchain Consultants to traditional positions with surprising compensation packages, these are the best paying jobs in finance you should consider for 2025.

Chief Risk Officer

Among the highest paid finance jobs, Chief Risk Officers (CROs) stand out as C-suite executives with substantial responsibilities and matching compensation. As organizations face increasingly complex threats, CROs have evolved beyond traditional risk management roles into strategic partners in corporate decision-making.

Chief Risk Officer Key Responsibilities

CROs oversee the identification, assessment, and mitigation of threats across multiple domains. Their primary focus includes:

Managing technical risks like cybersecurity vulnerabilities
Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements
Mitigating competitive risks to protect market position
Developing comprehensive risk frameworks and strategic action plans
Fostering a risk-aware culture throughout the organization

Moreover, CROs collaborate closely with CEOs and boards to establish appropriate risk appetite levels that balance opportunity with potential threats.

Chief Risk Officer Required Skills

Success in this role demands a diverse skill set combining technical expertise with leadership qualities:

Strategic thinking and business acumen
Advanced analytical capabilities for risk modeling
Exceptional communication skills for stakeholder management
Leadership abilities to influence cross-functional teams
Technical knowledge of financial markets and products

Furthermore, effective CROs must be adaptable in the face of emerging threats such as climate change, cybercrime, and pandemics.

Chief Risk Officer Required Qualifications

The path to becoming a CRO typically includes:

Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, accounting, or economics
Master’s degree (MBA or Risk Management) strongly preferred
Professional certifications like Financial Risk Manager (FRM) or Certified Risk Manager (CRM)
10-20 years of experience in business or finance roles
Demonstrated expertise in risk management frameworks

Chief Risk Officer Average Salary

CROs receive generous compensation packages reflecting their critical role. The average base salary ranges from $132,008 to $162,274 annually. Nevertheless, total compensation can vary significantly based on:

Industry (banking CROs earn approximately $180,970)
Company size (private corporation CROs average $216,000)
Experience level (top performers often exceed $250,000 annually)

At the highest levels, compensation packages can be extraordinary—JPMChase’s CRO earned $11 million, making it one of the absolute best paying jobs in finance.

Quantitative Analyst

Quantitative Analysts represent the intersection of mathematics and finance, making them among the highest paid finance jobs in 2025. These “quants” apply sophisticated mathematical and statistical techniques to analyze financial markets, develop trading strategies, and manage risk.

Quantitative Analyst Key Responsibilities

Quantitative Analysts perform critical functions in securities firms, banks, and hedge funds:

Developing mathematical models to provide insight into complex financial systems
Pricing securities and derivative instruments using advanced calculations
Creating algorithms to inform trading timing and execution
Assessing and managing various types of financial risk
Supporting investment managers with data-driven decision making
Documenting and presenting analysis results to firm management

Quantitative Analyst Required Skills

Success as a Quantitative Analyst demands exceptional technical abilities:

Advanced proficiency in mathematics and statistics
Expertise in programming languages (C++ typically considered most important)
Mastery of statistical analysis software (Matlab, R, S-Plus, or SAS)
Advanced Excel skills for financial modeling
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
Problem-solving and analytical thinking capabilities

Additionally, quants must effectively communicate complex findings to help firms implement their models in day-to-day business operations.

Quantitative Analyst Required Qualifications

The pathway to becoming a Quantitative Analyst typically includes:

Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, physics, computer science, or related field
Graduate degree (Master’s or PhD) in quantitative discipline strongly preferred
Professional certifications like Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Certificate in Quantitative Finance (CQF)
Technical expertise in database management
Experience with specialized financial software and trading systems

Quantitative Analyst Average Salary

Quantitative Analysts enjoy substantial compensation packages, reflecting their specialized skills:

Median total compensation of $159,972 annually
Base salary averaging $110,585 with additional compensation of $49,387
Entry-level positions (0-2 years) earning $150,000-$225,000 plus bonuses
Senior-level positions (6+ years) commanding $500,000 to $1 million+
Highest earning quants at top firms making several hundred thousand dollars yearly

Consequently, Quantitative Analyst remains one of the best paying jobs in finance, particularly for those with strong mathematical and computational skills.

Credit Risk Manager

Credit Risk Managers play a critical role in financial institutions, serving as guardians of financial stability by analyzing and limiting exposure to potential losses. With demand growing at 17% through 2033, this position ranks among the highest paid finance jobs in 2025.

Credit Risk Manager Key Responsibilities

Credit Risk Managers oversee crucial financial protection functions:

Conducting comprehensive credit risk assessments to evaluate borrower and counterparty creditworthiness
Analyzing credit applications to determine risk levels and provide recommendations
Creating and monitoring credit portfolios to identify potential hazards
Managing compliance and audit readiness across the organization
Leading credit risk management projects and initiatives
Overseeing credit research to analyze risk and identify investment opportunities
Participating in risk committee activities alongside executives

Credit Risk Manager Required Skills

Success in this role demands specialized capabilities:

Risk management expertise (required by 68% of employers)
Strong analytical abilities (33% of job postings)
Finance knowledge (25% of positions)
Project management skills (22% of listings)
Time management and organization capabilities
Financial modeling proficiency
Excellent communication abilities (51% of job postings)

Credit Risk Manager Required Qualifications

The pathway to becoming a Credit Risk Manager typically includes:

Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or related field
Master’s degree often preferred for senior positions
5+ years of experience in risk management or credit analysis
Professional certifications like CFA or CPA enhance credentials
Thorough understanding of credit risk principles and regulatory requirements

Credit Risk Manager Average Salary

Credit Risk Managers enjoy substantial compensation:

Average base salary of $124,875 annually
Estimated total compensation (including bonuses) reaching $180,989
Top earners at companies like Amazon can make between $206,000-$339,000
Highest paying cities include San Francisco ($170,002) and Irving, TX ($168,001)
Telecommunications ($185,016) and Financial Services ($166,058) offer the highest industry compensation

Actuary

As mathematical wizards in the financial world, Actuaries combine statistical analysis with business acumen to assess risk—making this profession one of the highest paid finance jobs with remarkable growth potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for actuaries are projected to grow 22% from 2023 to 2033, substantially faster than the average for all occupations.

Actuary Key Responsibilities

Actuaries perform essential functions across various sectors:

Analyzing statistical data to identify patterns and assess probabilities of events
Creating mathematical models to predict financial risks and costs
Designing insurance policies and determining appropriate premium prices
Evaluating financial implications of uncertain future events
Communicating complex technical matters to non-technical stakeholders
Ensuring companies maintain adequate cash flow and reserves

Unlike other finance professionals, actuaries primarily serve as the backbone of financial security for insurance companies, though many also work in consulting, government, and financial planning.

Actuary Required Skills

Success in this field depends on specialized abilities:

Analytical prowess: Identifying patterns in complex data sets to determine risk factors
Mathematical expertise: Applying principles of calculus, statistics, and probability to quantify risk
Computer proficiency: Mastering programming languages and statistical analysis tools
Communication talents: Explaining technical concepts clearly to non-specialists
Problem-solving capabilities: Developing solutions for businesses to manage identified risks

Actuary Required Qualifications

The path to becoming an actuary includes:

Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, actuarial science, statistics, or another analytical field
Passing a series of professional exams through either the Society of Actuaries (SOA) or Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS)
Completing coursework in economics, statistics, and corporate finance
Earning associate-level certification (taking up to 7 years) before advancing to fellowship status
Continuing education to maintain credentials

Actuary Average Salary

Actuaries receive exceptional compensation for their specialized expertise:

Median salary of approximately $126,572 per year
Potential for additional pay averaging $71,107 annually through bonuses and profit sharing
Experienced fellows earning between $150,000 to $250,000 yearly
Entry-level positions starting between $57,020 to $101,796
Substantially higher earnings than the national median across all professions

Portfolio Manager

Portfolio Managers stand out among the highest paid finance jobs for their strategic role in creating and managing investment allocations for clients. These investment decision-makers shoulder significant responsibility by handling millions—sometimes billions—in assets.

Portfolio Manager Key Responsibilities

Portfolio Managers perform critical functions that directly impact client wealth:

Creating and implementing investment strategies based on client objectives
Buying and selling securities to maintain specific investment goals
Leading teams of analysts and researchers
Conducting in-depth market research and economic analysis
Building and maintaining client relationships through regular communication
Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and investment guidelines
Evaluating portfolio performance against benchmarks

Portfolio Manager Required Skills

Success in this role demands exceptional capabilities:

Strong analytical abilities for interpreting complex financial data
Strategic thinking to anticipate market trends and opportunities
Emotional control during market fluctuations
Exceptional communication talents for explaining investment decisions to clients
Decisive judgment when making recommendations
Competitive spirit to identify promising investment opportunities
Independent thinking to avoid herd mentality

Portfolio Manager Required Qualifications

The pathway to this career typically includes:

Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or related field (required by most employers)
Master’s degree in finance or MBA (frequently preferred)
Professional certifications, especially CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
Licensing by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA)
5+ years of experience, often starting as a financial analyst

Portfolio Manager Average Salary

Portfolio Managers enjoy substantial compensation reflecting their expertise:

Average annual salary between $113,720 and $124,063
Estimated additional pay (bonuses, commissions) averaging $54,012 annually
Total compensation packages reaching $178,075 per year
Entry-level positions starting between $55,354 and $108,604[212]
Experienced professionals earning up to $209,941 with 8+ years of experience
Highest salaries reaching $232,946 at top firms like BlackRock

Notably, location significantly impacts earnings, with California ($125,430), Massachusetts ($123,760), and New Jersey ($123,260) offering the highest state-level compensation.

Blockchain Consultant

Blockchain technology has created one of the highest paid finance jobs that many overlook. Blockchain Consultants serve as strategic advisors to businesses seeking to integrate decentralized technology solutions into their operations, offering expertise that commands premium compensation.

Blockchain Consultant Key Responsibilities

Blockchain Consultants perform specialized functions that bridge technology and business:

Assessing client needs and determining suitable blockchain solutions
Conducting feasibility studies to analyze potential benefits and risks
Designing blockchain architectures and strategies customized to client requirements
Implementing and maintaining blockchain networks and platforms
Performing security assessments and audits on blockchain systems
Providing training and guidance to internal teams

Blockchain Consultant Required Skills

Success in this field demands a unique blend of technical knowledge and business acumen:

Blockchain Expertise: Deep understanding of blockchain platforms like Ethereum, Hyperledger, and Corda
Programming Proficiency: Knowledge of blockchain development languages (Solidity, Chaincode)
Analytical Thinking: Strong problem-solving capabilities for complex business challenges
Cryptographic Knowledge: Understanding of cryptographic principles and protocols
Communication Talents: Ability to explain complex concepts to non-technical stakeholders
Business Acumen: Understanding how businesses operate and generate value

Blockchain Consultant Required Qualifications

The pathway typically includes:

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field
Proven experience in blockchain consulting or similar roles
Professional certifications like Certified Blockchain Professional (CBP)
Experience designing and implementing blockchain solutions

Blockchain Consultant Average Salary

Blockchain Consultants enjoy substantial compensation:

Average total pay reaching $144,470 annually
Base salary ranging from $96,643 to $105,426
Highest earners making up to $202,259 yearly
Experience-based progression: Senior Consultants ($126,000–$215,000), Principal Consultants ($150,000–$273,000)
Location impact with Austin, TX offering $124,406 annually

Indeed, as businesses across finance, healthcare, and logistics seek blockchain implementation guidance, demand for qualified consultants continues growing rapidly.

Fintech Product Manager

Fintech Product Managers represent a perfect blend of financial expertise and technological innovation, making them highly sought-after professionals among the highest paid finance jobs in 2025. These specialists bridge the critical gap between technology and financial services, driving the development of digital financial products that transform how businesses and consumers manage money.

Fintech Product Manager Key Responsibilities

Fintech Product Managers perform multifaceted duties essential to product success:

Overseeing the entire product lifecycle from concept to launch
Conducting extensive market research to identify opportunities
Defining product vision and developing detailed roadmaps
Collaborating with engineering, marketing, and compliance teams
Translating complex requirements into actionable tasks
Gathering and implementing customer feedback
Ensuring products comply with financial regulations

Fintech Product Manager Required Skills

Success in this role requires a diverse skill set spanning several domains:

Strong analytical abilities for interpreting market data
Proficiency in project management methodologies (Agile/Scrum)
Deep understanding of financial systems and regulations
Expertise in user experience (UX) design principles
Exceptional communication talents for cross-functional collaboration
Risk management capabilities for financial products
Technical knowledge of fintech-specific technologies (blockchain, APIs, payment systems)

Fintech Product Manager Required Qualifications

The pathway to this career typically includes:

Bachelor’s degree in finance, technology, or business
Professional experience as business analysts, software developers, or financial consultants
Demonstrated expertise in product management
Understanding of compliance requirements in financial services
Experience with financial software development

Fintech Product Manager Average Salary

Fintech Product Managers enjoy substantial compensation:

Average annual salary of $140,750
Entry-level positions ranging from $75,480 to $100,640
Mid-level professionals earning between $100,640 to $150,960
Senior-level roles commanding $150,960 to $226,440
Highest earners in New York making up to $182,000 annually

Location substantially impacts earnings, with New York, Chicago, and Austin offering the most competitive compensation packages for these in-demand professionals.

Private Equity Associate

Private Equity Associates serve as the backbone of investment teams, leading complex deal processes from origination to closing. Among the highest paid finance jobs, this role demands exceptional analytical prowess combined with independent decision-making capabilities.

Private Equity Associate Key Responsibilities

Private Equity Associates drive value creation through multifaceted responsibilities:

Leading deal processes from start to finish without step-by-step guidance
Sourcing new investment opportunities and generating deal ideas
Building financial models and conducting due diligence
Monitoring portfolio companies and reviewing quarterly financial results
Preparing confidential information memorandum (CIM) reviews
Creating leveraged buyout (LBO) models for client deals
Supporting fundraising activities with potential investors

Private Equity Associate Required Skills

Success in private equity hinges on mastery of these essential capabilities:

Financial modeling expertise, particularly LBO analysis
Strong analytical abilities for interpreting complex data
Excellent communication skills for presenting findings to senior executives
Time management capabilities for handling multiple projects
Negotiation talents for closing deals with investors
Independent thinking and assertive qualities
Problem-solving aptitude for identifying investment opportunities

Private Equity Associate Required Qualifications

The pathway typically requires:

Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, accounting, or related field
Minimum 2-3 years of investment banking experience
MBA potentially beneficial but not mandatory
Professional certifications like Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
Excellent academic record from reputable institutions
Prior internship experience in private equity or related field

Private Equity Associate Average Salary

Private Equity Associates receive substantial compensation packages:

Base salary ranging from $135,000 to $155,000 annually
Performance bonuses typically 100-150% of base salary
Total compensation at top firms between $275,000 to $390,000
Mid-level positions reaching $400,000 to $700,000 after 3-4 years
Location impacts earnings significantly, with New York offering premium compensation

Subsequently, as professionals advance to Senior Associate roles after 2-3 years, both responsibilities and compensation increase substantially.

Chief Compliance Officer

Chief Compliance Officers (CCOs) serve as the ethical guardians of financial institutions, making this role one of the highest paid finance jobs that requires both legal expertise and strategic business acumen. In an era of intensifying regulatory pressures, organizations increasingly value compliance leaders who can balance risk management with business growth.

Chief Compliance Officer Key Responsibilities

CCOs shoulder critical responsibilities that protect organizations from legal and reputational damage:

Developing comprehensive compliance programs tailored to specific organizational needs
Implementing effective internal controls and policies across the enterprise
Managing audits, risk assessments, and investigations of potential violations
Continuously monitoring regulatory changes and updating procedures accordingly
Promoting a culture of compliance through training and communication
Reporting compliance activities to senior management and board directors

Chief Compliance Officer Required Skills

Beyond legal knowledge, today’s CCOs must possess diverse capabilities:

Strategic thinking and business partnership abilities
Excellent communication skills for explaining complex regulations
Strong analytical capabilities for interpreting regulatory requirements
Technology fluency, particularly with data analytics systems
Cross-functional collaboration aptitude
Leadership qualities to influence organizational culture

Chief Compliance Officer Required Qualifications

The path to becoming a CCO typically includes:

Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, law, or related field
Advanced degrees (MBA or JD) often preferred but not mandatory
Professional certifications like Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP)
5-10 years of experience in compliance or related fields
Deep understanding of industry-specific regulations and requirements

Chief Compliance Officer Average Salary

CCOs receive substantial compensation reflecting their critical role:

Median annual wage of $78,420 for compliance officers broadly
Chief Compliance Officers specifically earning average base salaries of $192,095
Total compensation packages (including bonuses) reaching $310,099 annually
Highest earners commanding up to $433,196 per year
Public company CCOs earning significantly more ($347,000) than private company counterparts ($242,000)
Energy and utility sector CCOs receiving the highest compensation at $638,000

Financial Risk Specialist

Financial Risk Specialists stand at the forefront of protecting organizational assets, applying sophisticated analytical techniques to identify and mitigate threats to financial stability. This often-overlooked yet highly rewarding career ranks among the highest paid finance jobs with exceptional growth prospects of 6-8% through 2033.

Financial Risk Specialist Key Responsibilities

Financial Risk Specialists serve as financial guardians through critical functions:

Analyzing exposure to credit and market risk threatening organizational assets
Conducting statistical analyzes to quantify risk using specialized software
Developing and implementing risk assessment models and methodologies
Documenting and ensuring communication of key risks
Analyzing new legislation to determine regulatory impact
Producing reports that outline findings and recommend risk reduction strategies
Meeting with clients to address queries about risk exposure and market scenarios

Financial Risk Specialist Required Skills

Success in this field depends on mastering several core competencies:

Exceptional analytical abilities for interpreting complex financial data
Strong mathematical reasoning for quantifying potential risks
Problem sensitivity—recognizing issues before they become critical
Proficiency with analytical software like IBM SPSS Statistics and MATLAB
Excellent written and oral communication capabilities for explaining technical concepts
Deductive and inductive reasoning for effective problem-solving

Financial Risk Specialist Required Qualifications

The pathway typically includes:

Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, statistics, or mathematics
Considerable work-related experience in finance or risk assessment
Professional certifications like Financial Risk Manager (FRM) often preferred
Continuing education to stay current with evolving regulatory requirements

Financial Risk Specialist Average Salary

Given their critical role in protecting organizational assets, Financial Risk Specialists enjoy substantial compensation:

Median annual salary of $106,090
Salary range from $61,090 (10th percentile) to $184,330 (90th percentile)
Mean annual wage of $118,950 across industries
Highest paying locations include New York ($159,350), Connecticut ($128,350), and New Jersey ($127,540)
Securities and investment sectors offering premium compensation at $142,120 annually

Mergers and Acquisitions Analyst

M&A Analysts drive corporate growth strategies by conducting detailed financial analysis for potential business combinations. As key players in deal execution teams, these finance professionals represent one of the highest paid finance jobs for those with strong analytical capabilities and financial modeling expertise.

M&A Analyst Key Responsibilities

M&A Analysts perform critical functions throughout the deal lifecycle:

Conducting preliminary legwork for potential mergers and acquisitions
Analyzing industry prospects through research on competitors and market share possibilities
Creating valuation models of target companies to inform decision-making
Building financial models for merger analysis and projections
Drafting marketing documents like Confidential Information Memorandums
Reviewing target company financial statements during due diligence
Preparing customized presentations for executive teams

M&A Analyst Required Skills

Success in this field requires a combination of technical and interpersonal capabilities:

First, technical competencies are essential—proficiency with financial modeling techniques, particularly discounted cash flow analysis and leveraged buyout models. Additionally, excellent understanding of contracts, legal implications, and regulatory rules proves invaluable.

Furthermore, strong communication skills remain crucial as analysts must present complex findings clearly to senior executives. Time management capabilities help handle demanding workloads, with analysts occasionally working up to 18-hour days during active deal periods.

M&A Analyst Required Qualifications

The pathway typically includes:

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, economics, finance, or mathematics
1-3 years experience from a Tier 1 bank/boutique or Big 4 accounting firm
Strong academic record from reputable institutions
Professional certifications can enhance credentials

M&A Analyst Average Salary

M&A Analysts receive competitive compensation:

Median salary for entry-level positions reaches $82,684 annually
Salary ranges from $58,223 to $106,063 depending on location and employer
Average annual pay in 2025 reaches $91,938 across the United States
Top earners (90th percentile) command $123,000 yearly
Location impacts earnings significantly—highest paying cities include Nome, AK ($114,048) and Berkeley, CA ($112,572)
Bonuses comprise approximately 7% of compensation for entry-level analysts

Venture Capital Associate

Venture Capital Associates play a crucial role in identifying and nurturing tomorrow’s billion-dollar companies, making this position among the highest paid finance jobs with significant growth potential. Operating near the bottom of the VC hierarchy yet shouldering substantial responsibilities, these professionals serve as the frontline evaluators of investment opportunities.

Venture Capital Associate Key Responsibilities

Venture Capital Associates primarily focus on two core functions:

Sourcing new deals: Finding promising startups, making initial outreach, qualifying companies, and recommending the best opportunities to senior team members
Deal execution: Analyzing markets, requesting financial information, and advancing potential investments through detailed analysis

Beyond these core functions, associates often support portfolio companies, observe board meetings, help build the firm’s brand, and occasionally contribute to fundraising efforts. Their workload varies by firm type with early-stage VCs focusing more on sourcing while later-stage firms emphasize financial analysis.

Venture Capital Associate Required Skills

Success in venture capital demands diverse capabilities:

Strong analytical abilities for evaluating markets and business models
Exceptional networking skills (essential as “cold calling, cold emailing, or networking” form key components of the role)
Financial modeling expertise, particularly for later-stage firms
Effective communication talents for presenting investment opportunities
Industry-specific knowledge in areas like technology or healthcare

Venture Capital Associate Required Qualifications

Typically, associates enter from fields like:

Investment banking, management consulting, or product management (for Pre-MBA positions)
Advanced degrees (MBA/MD/PhD) for Senior Associate roles
Technical backgrounds for specialized VCs (life sciences often require scientific knowledge)

Experience requirements generally include 2+ years in similar fields.

Venture Capital Associate Average Salary

Compensation varies considerably based on several factors:

Pre-MBA Associates earn $150,000-$200,000 in base salary plus bonus at large firms
Post-MBA Senior Associates can expect $200,000-$250,000 total compensation
Smaller or newer firms typically offer lower base compensation
Carried interest (“carry”) is unlikely at Associate level unless joining a brand-new firm

Overall, VC offers more balanced hours (50-60 per week) than investment banking, yet requires substantial networking outside office hours.

Real Estate Finance Manager

Real Estate Finance Managers thrive at the intersection of financial analysis and property investment, emerging as one of the highest paid finance jobs with growth projected at 17% through 2033. These professionals transform raw market data into strategic investment decisions that shape skylines worldwide.

Real Estate Finance Manager Key Responsibilities

Real Estate Finance Managers primarily focus on safeguarding the financial viability of property developments through several critical functions:

Analyzing and interpreting financial data for real estate projects
Developing and managing sophisticated financial models to forecast performance
Conducting thorough market research to identify investment opportunities
Preparing comprehensive investment reports and presentations
Evaluating financial risks and creating mitigation strategies
Negotiating and securing financing for real estate transactions
Overseeing budgeting and forecasting for property deals

Real Estate Finance Manager Required Skills

Beyond typical financial expertise, these professionals must master specialized capabilities:

First, strong proficiency in financial modeling and analysis forms the foundation of success. Additionally, advanced expertise in Microsoft Excel and financial spreadsheet management proves essential for handling complex calculations. Effective communication and negotiation abilities further elevate performance, enabling professionals to secure favorable financing terms and clearly present findings to stakeholders.

Real Estate Finance Manager Required Qualifications

The pathway typically includes:

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Real Estate, or related field
MBA or relevant advanced degree often preferred
Professional certifications like CFA or CPA highly desirable
Minimum 5-7 years of experience in real estate finance
In-depth knowledge of financial regulations and compliance standards

Real Estate Finance Manager Average Salary

Given their specialized expertise, these professionals command impressive compensation:

Base salary range of $104,134 to $161,700 annually
Total compensation packages reaching $137,667 with bonuses and incentives
Highest earners in the field making up to $184,725 yearly
Premium compensation in companies like Siemens reaching $221,000-$332,000 for leadership roles

Financial Software Developer

Financial Software Developers blend cutting-edge programming expertise with deep financial knowledge, creating a digital backbone for the modern finance industry. Their specialized skills position them alongside other highest paid finance jobs, with demand significantly outpacing supply.

Financial Software Developer Key Responsibilities

Financial Software Developers perform mission-critical functions across lending organizations, banks, and credit processing companies:

Designing and developing customized financial applications and systems
Creating instructional documentation and coding libraries for future modifications
Reviewing customer service data to identify potential defects
Testing and implementing solutions for complex financial problems
Building mobile apps and cloud-based interfaces as financial professionals increasingly use mobile devices

Financial Software Developer Required Skills

Success in this specialized field requires mastery of both technical and financial domains:

Proficiency in programming languages including Python, Java, C++, and frameworks like AngularJS
Strong understanding of object-oriented programming principles
Experience with mathematical modeling and distributed systems architecture
Knowledge of relational database systems and web technologies (Javascript, Ajax, ASP.NET)
Ability to collaborate with both technical and non-technical financial staff

Financial Software Developer Required Qualifications

The pathway typically includes:

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or Finance
3+ years of experience in mobile application development
Professional certifications in software development and testing
Understanding of the software development lifecycle
Knowledge of financial regulations and compliance requirements

Financial Software Developer Average Salary

Financial Software Developers command premium compensation:

Median annual wage of $133,080 as of May 2024
Average total compensation package of $133,209, including base salary of $104,998 plus additional pay of $28,212
Highest salaries reaching $172,157 at top firms
Geographical variation with San Jose ($163,336) and New York (94% above national average) offering premium compensation
Information Technology sector offering the highest median total pay at $161,793

Treasury Manager

Treasury Managers have evolved into strategic financial professionals who oversee company cash flow while shaping fiscal policy, placing them among the highest paid finance jobs with robust growth prospects. In fact, employment in this field is projected to increase by 17% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than average for all occupations.

Treasury Manager Key Responsibilities

Treasury Managers serve as financial custodians with multifaceted duties:

Overseeing daily treasury operations and cash flow forecasting
Managing banking relationships and optimizing global banking structures
Developing and implementing treasury policies and controls
Managing liquidity and ensuring sufficient funds for operations
Supervising foreign exchange and commodity risk management
Overseeing debt management and financing strategies
Supporting projects, acquisitions, and corporate initiatives

Given that treasury functions have gained strategic importance amid global economic volatility, these professionals must balance liquidity management with growth initiatives.

Treasury Manager Required Skills

Success in this role requires diverse capabilities:

Strong analytical abilities for interpreting financial data
Advanced Excel and financial modeling expertise
Leadership qualities for managing treasury teams
Communication talents for explaining complex financial matters
Project management proficiency for system migrations
Risk assessment and fraud mitigation capabilities
Technical knowledge of treasury management systems

Treasury Manager Required Qualifications

The pathway typically includes:

Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or related field
5+ years of experience in treasury or accounting
Professional certifications like Certified Treasury Professional (CTP)
MBA preferred by many employers
Experience with treasury transformation projects

Treasury Manager Average Salary

Treasury Managers receive substantial compensation:

Average base salary between $110,139 and $124,488 annually
Total compensation packages reaching $185,901 with bonuses
Highest earners commanding up to $243,420 yearly
Premium compensation at top firms like Google ($318,000-$532,000)
Location impacts earnings with San Jose offering highest pay at $155,952

Comparison Table

Position	Average Base Salary	Total Compensation Range	Key Responsibilities	Required Qualifications	Growth Outlook
Chief Risk Officer	$132,008 – $162,274	Up to $250,000+	Risk framework development, compliance oversight, strategic planning	Bachelor’s + 10-20 years experience, Risk Management certifications	Not mentioned
Quantitative Analyst	$110,585	$150,000 – $1M+	Financial modeling, algorithm development, trading strategy creation	Bachelor’s in mathematics/statistics, Master’s preferred	Not mentioned
Credit Risk Manager	$124,875	$180,989 – $339,000	Credit assessment, portfolio management, risk analysis	Bachelor’s + 5 years experience, CFA/CPA preferred	17% through 2033
Actuary	$126,572	$150,000 – $250,000	Statistical analysis, risk assessment, insurance policy design	Bachelor’s in mathematics/actuarial science, Professional exams	22% through 2033
Portfolio Manager	$113,720 – $124,063	Up to $232,946	Investment strategy, portfolio maintenance, client relations	Bachelor’s + 5 years experience, CFA required	Not mentioned
Blockchain Consultant	$96,643 – $105,426	Up to $202,259	Blockchain solution design, implementation, security assessment	Bachelor’s in Computer Science/IT, Blockchain certifications	Not mentioned
Fintech Product Manager	$140,750	$75,480 – $226,440	Product lifecycle management, market research, roadmap development	Bachelor’s in finance/technology, Product management experience	Not mentioned
Private Equity Associate	$135,000 – $155,000	$275,000 – $390,000	Deal sourcing, financial modeling, due diligence	Bachelor’s + 2-3 years investment banking experience	Not mentioned
Chief Compliance Officer	$192,095	Up to $433,196	Compliance program development, audit management, regulatory oversight	Bachelor’s + Advanced degree preferred, 5-10 years experience	Not mentioned
Financial Risk Specialist	$106,090	$61,090 – $184,330	Risk analysis, statistical modeling, regulatory compliance	Bachelor’s in finance/mathematics, Risk assessment experience	6-8% through 2033
M&A Analyst	$82,684	$58,223 – $123,000	Deal analysis, valuation modeling, due diligence	Bachelor’s + 1-3 years experience	Not mentioned
Venture Capital Associate	$150,000 – $200,000	$200,000 – $250,000	Deal sourcing, market analysis, investment evaluation	Bachelor’s + 2 years experience, MBA preferred	Not mentioned
Real Estate Finance Manager	$104,134 – $161,700	Up to $184,725	Financial modeling, market research, investment analysis	Bachelor’s + 5-7 years experience, MBA preferred	17% through 2033
Financial Software Developer	$104,998	Up to $172,157	Financial application development, system design, testing	Bachelor’s in Computer Science + 3 years experience	Not mentioned
Treasury Manager	$110,139 – $124,488	Up to $243,420	Cash flow management, banking relations, risk management	Bachelor’s + 5 years experience, CTP preferred	17% through 2033

Conclusion

Undoubtedly, the finance sector continues to offer exceptional career opportunities with remarkable compensation packages well into 2025. Throughout this exploration of specialized finance roles, we’ve uncovered positions that significantly outpace the national median salary of $48,060—often by 66% or more. The industry’s robust 8% growth rate, coupled with retirement-driven turnover, creates nearly one million finance positions annually, making this field particularly attractive for career-minded professionals.

What stands out most clearly from our analysis is the remarkable diversity within financial careers. Traditional roles like Portfolio Managers and Actuaries offer substantial rewards, while emerging positions such as Blockchain Consultants and Fintech Product Managers represent cutting-edge opportunities with extraordinary earning potential. Regardless of specific interest areas, finance professionals can find specialized niches that align with their particular skills and ambitions.

Most notably, each position we’ve examined requires a specific combination of education, certifications, and experience. Chief Risk Officers typically need 10-20 years of experience alongside risk management certifications, while Quantitative Analysts must demonstrate exceptional mathematical capabilities. These requirements, though demanding, ultimately justify the premium compensation these professionals command.

Finally, the salary data speaks volumes about finance career potential. From Private Equity Associates earning up to $390,000 annually to Chief Compliance Officers commanding packages exceeding $430,000, these roles represent some of the most financially rewarding careers available. Consequently, for professionals seeking both intellectual challenges and substantial compensation, these fifteen finance careers deserve serious consideration as we move through 2025 and beyond.

FAQs

Q1. What are some of the highest-paying finance jobs in 2025? Some of the top-paying finance careers include Chief Risk Officer, Quantitative Analyst, Portfolio Manager, and Private Equity Associate. These roles often offer total compensation packages ranging from $200,000 to over $400,000 annually for experienced professionals.

Q2. How long does it typically take to reach a six-figure salary in finance? Most finance professionals can reach six-figure salaries within 3-5 years of experience. Mid-level positions like finance managers or senior financial analysts often earn between $80,000 and $120,000, with the potential to exceed $100,000 within 5-10 years of experience.

Q3. Which industries are expected to offer the most lucrative finance jobs by 2030? Technology, healthcare, and renewable energy sectors are projected to offer some of the highest-paying finance jobs by 2030. Roles involving artificial intelligence, data science, and financial technology are likely to be particularly well-compensated.

Q4. Are finance jobs expected to remain in demand in the future? Yes, finance jobs are expected to remain in high demand. While the nature of these roles may evolve, finance organizations worldwide continue to seek skilled professionals. The industry is projected to grow faster than average, with nearly one million positions opening annually over the next decade.

Q5. What qualifications are typically required for high-paying finance jobs? High-paying finance jobs usually require a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or a related field. Many roles prefer or require advanced degrees like an MBA. Professional certifications such as CFA, CPA, or FRM are often valuable. Additionally, most top-paying positions demand several years of relevant experience and strong analytical and communication skills.