Here's how much a finance professional earns in 2026

Published date: January 9, 2026

The financial sector offers a wide range of career opportunities, whether you are taking your first steps as a finance professional in the job market or reaching the top in financial management. Christophe Paquay, senior manager at global talent solutions specialist Robert Walters, reveals the salaries and trends in 2026 for some common positions in the financial sector.

Internal auditor

Working experience as an internal auditor often forms the basis for further growth within the financial world. Those building up three to seven years of experience can expect a salary averaging between 4,100 and 5,800 euros gross per month. For auditors with more than seven years' experience, the salary rises further, to around 7.500 euros gross per month.

‘In addition to a competitive salary, audit positions often offer a wide range of fringe benefits. These include a company car with fuel card, bonuses, a mobile phone and laptop, a comprehensive insurance package and meal vouchers,’ adds Christophe.

External auditor

There is a continuous demand for external auditors, both experienced professionals and juniors. This role is available not only within the Big4, but also at numerous small and medium-sized audit firms.

Christophe: ‘As a starter, you can expect a gross monthly salary of around EUR 2,500. This is accompanied by a company car - because you will regularly be required to make client visits - and a net expense allowance. With 3 to 7 years' experience, your salary rises to EUR 3,200 – 5,500. As you gain more experience, your monthly salary can rise to around 6,800 EUR. In addition, auditing firms usually offer many training and continuing education opportunities, so you will always keep up to date with the latest regulations.’

Financial or Business Controller

‘For auditors from the Big 4, moving to a financial or business controller job is a logical and common choice,’ Christophe knows. ‘These professionals bring a strong foundation in financial reporting, broad knowledge of sectors and strategic insight, which is valuable in controller roles. They appreciate the shift from control to strategy, greater autonomy and responsibility, and often a better work-life balance. Moreover, the demand for former Big 4 talent is high, thanks to their reputation and expertise.’

In the first 3 years as a financial or business controller, the gross monthly salary is usually between EUR 2,500 and EUR 3,800. With increasing experience and as the controller develops further as a business partner, the salary grows. With 3 to 10 years of experience, the average monthly salary rises to 4,000 to 6,800 euro gross. For senior controllers with more than 15 years' experience, this can rise to 9,300 euro gross per month, supplemented by interesting fringe benefits.

Financial management

Christophe: ‘In 2026, AI, automation and sustainability continue to radically transform the financial sector. Organisations that want to meet these challenges must invest in their internal talent and focus on developing leadership potential.'

Finance professionals who position themselves as strategic business partners and specialise in ESG compliance and strategic insight will have plenty of opportunities to accelerate their careers.

For finance managers with 7 to 15 years of experience, the gross monthly salary is between EUR 6,500 and EUR 8,800. After 15 years of experience, this can go up to EUR 11,000 gross per month.

If you grow into the role of finance director, you can expect a gross monthly salary of up to EUR 13,000. As chief financial officer or CFO, the gross monthly salary varies between EUR 10,000 and EUR 18,000.