Why choose a career switch to accounting now?

Are you at a crossroads in your career and considering a fresh start? Then accounting might just be the right path for you. The role of accountant or bookkeeper has been a shortage occupation in Belgium for years, and the demand for new professionals is only increasing. In the first half of the year alone, no fewer than 32,000 accounting vacancies were posted in Belgium (source: Jobs Data).

But what makes accounting so attractive today? And what does the profession look like in the future? Jens Spittael-Speeckaert, Director at recruitment specialist Robert Walters, explains why now is the perfect time to reskill.

Structural shortages 

The Belgian job market is under pressure due to a shortage of accountants. Since 2021, the role has consistently ranked in the top 10 of VDAB’s list of shortage occupations. Why? Due to an aging workforce, a large group of accountants is nearing retirement age, while the influx of young professionals from accounting programs is not sufficient to replace them.

“On top of that, the demand for financial expertise is growing – both in SMEs and larger companies,” Jens adds. “This results in a structural shortage, which means job opportunities are well above average. Employers are increasingly open to career switchers, even those with limited experience, as long as you follow the right training.” 

Digitalisation makes the work more meaningful

Accountants used to have a reputation as number-crunchers – people who entered invoices and prepared balance sheets. Today, much of that repetitive work is automated through smart software and AI. But what does that mean in practice? 

Jens: “The accountant’s role is shifting from pure data entry and administration to analysis and advisory. Of course, it's still important to understand how numbers are entered into the system. That foundational knowledge – the methodology and structure behind the books – is essential to identify errors or explain discrepancies. But today’s accountant (and even more so tomorrow’s) is also a strategic partner: you collaborate with business leaders, analyse figures, and translate them into insights.”

This also means that soft skills are becoming increasingly important in recruitment. “Companies now look beyond technical accounting knowledge when hiring accountants. Communication, critical thinking, and customer orientation are just as important.” 

New fields of expertise

Companies are under pressure to operate sustainably, transparently, and in compliance with legislation. Accountants play a key role in ESG reporting (environmental, social, and governance), compliance and regulation, and risk analysis and forecasting. 

“As an accountant, you're the bridge between data and policy. You’re no longer just reporting on the past, but increasingly helping shape the future: what's coming, and how do we prepare?” says Jens.

Growth opportunities 

A career in accounting doesn’t have to stop at bookkeeper. Motivated individuals who continue learning can progress into roles with more responsibility and impact:

• From accounting assistant to file manager to head accountant 

• From accountant to controller to Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

• From employee to independent accountant or partner at a firm 

Jens: “With additional training or certifications (such as ITAA or a postgraduate in taxation), you can build a solid career path. And thanks to digitalisation, there are also opportunities to specialise in data analysis, ESG reporting, or process optimisation. In short, it’s a profession where you can truly grow.”

A surprising variety 

Accounting offers more variety than you might expect. You can work in an SME with a broad range of tasks, in a multinational with opportunities for advancement and an international context, or in an accounting firm where you gain experience across various sectors. Startups also need financial profiles to help shape growth and efficiency – often in digital and innovative environments.

“Would you rather be independent? Then you can build your own client portfolio as a freelancer or self-employed accountant,” adds Jens.

One qualification can open the door to a wide range of work environments – and you choose the path you want to take.

Flexible work models

A career in accounting no longer means sitting in an office from 9 to 5 every day. The profession has evolved along with the labour market and now offers a great deal of flexibility. 

“Remote and hybrid work are well established, especially in accounting firms and larger organisations. Many roles are also available part-time — useful if you want to combine your career with family, further education, or other activities,” Jens concludes.

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