Finance Training not on Front Burner for Many Co's.

December 10, 2008 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - Training is taking a back seat to other priorities in some accounting departments, according to an Accountemps survey.

Some 18% of chief financial officers said they do not expect to offer employee training in the next two years, according to a press release. Among companies with training planned, 30% of finance executives intend to invest in information technology (IT) skills development, and another 26% anticipate offering accounting and finance courses.

In addition to IT and accounting/finance training anticipated for accounting/finance staffers in the next 24 months, respondents also mentioned:

  • Management training, 16%
  • Soft skills training, 8%
  • None, 18%

“Employers seek accountants who are able to maximize technology to reduce inefficiencies and enhance profitability,” said Max Messmer, chairman of Accountemps, in the press release. “Industry trends such as the impending U.S. adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) are driving demand for professionals with IT systems proficiency and expertise with new regulations and reporting standards.”

The survey was based on telephone interviews with more than 1,400 CFOs across the United States.

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