ACCOUNTANTS and auditors can look forward to a hefty raise this year of over 30 per cent from their current pay package - but only if they are in the top echelons of the profession, such as internal auditors.
Recruitment consultant Robert Half said high demand for qualified professionals has resulted in pay that bucks the economic trend.
Its annual salary guides for 2009/10 tracked the salaries of 16 key accounting and finance positions across 21 countries and territories, including the United States and Hong Kong.
Among the key findings: average salaries this year are likely to stay constant with wages last year. However, internal auditors with over five years' experience can earn up to $110,000 per year.
Assistant accountants with about five years of industry experience are likely to draw $45,000, up from $30,000 a year ago.
Robert Half Singapore managing director Tim Hird said: 'Demand for highly skilled finance and accounting professionals remains strong (but) many employees are reluctant to leave their jobs in the current market, creating a distinct supply gap.'
Almost seven in 10 companies here said they found it difficult filling finance and accounting positions.
KPMG head of people, performance and culture Philip Lee said: 'We still look out for well-qualified and experienced candidates to complement our talent pool.'
President of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Singapore Ernest Kan said: 'Even during a downturn, companies will still need people to help them keep proper governance.'
