finance jobs with the fastest-growing salaries in 2025.

Here's an overview of the seven finance and accounting positions with the fastest-growing salaries for 2025.

1. accounts payable manager

Increase in pay since 2024: 41.30 percent

Mid-range salary in 2025: $107,051 to $119,313

summary of the role

An accounts payable manager oversees the accounts payable team. They make sure invoices are processed correctly, vendors are paid on time and financial regulations are followed. They may also improve payment methods and maintain good relationships with suppliers.

what to expect

This role has the fastest-growing finance salary of the last 12 months. It can offer job security, as companies generally need experts to manage their financial transactions. It provides growth opportunities, with advancement into higher-level finance roles. And you can really make a difference by contributing to a company’s overall financial efficiency.

2. assistant controller

Increase in pay since 2024: 38.97 percent

Mid-range salary in 2025: $131,697 to $145,560

summary of the role

Assistant controllers help manage accountants, create reports, plan budgets and ensure data accuracy. They review financial documents, fix errors and improve system efficiency. They also help businesses maximize profits, protect investments and provide accurate data to support important decisions.

what to expect

Being an assistant controller has several advantages, including competitive, sharply increasing pay and the possibility of progression into a controller role. Additionally, the job provides invaluable exposure to financial management, budgeting, reporting and strategic decision-making. Moreover, it gives you the opportunity to hone your leadership skills by overseeing accounting teams and collaborating across departments.

3. cost accounting manager

Increase in pay since 2024: 35.86 percent

Mid-range salary in 2025: $120,531 to $132,024

summary of the role

A cost accounting manager can have a long list of responsibilities. They handle monthly close processes, including cost accruals, inventory costing and account reconciliations. They analyze manufacturing costs, maintain cost systems, manage inventory accounting and perform cost of goods sold analysis. They also assist with audits.

what to expect

Working as a cost accounting manager offers a rapidly increasing salary and the possibility for career advancement to roles such as a controller or a financial planner. The role lets you use analytical and managerial skills by overseeing cost control and budgeting processes. This is another valued post where you directly contribute to a company’s financial well-being.

4. chief financial officer

Increase in pay since 2024: 34.88 percent

Mid-range salary in 2025: $231,916 to $413,879

summary of the role

The chief financial officer (CFO) is the highest-ranking financial role at a company. This senior executive is responsible for managing a company's finances and making crucial financial decisions. They develop strategy and oversee expenses and profits. The CFO reports directly to the CEO and frequently liaises with the board of directors. The CFO also leads a team of financial professionals, including accountants and financial managers.

what to expect

This is a highly senior role with substantial responsibilities and excellent pay, which is trending significantly upward. As a CFO, you would be directly involved in high-level decisions that impact the fiscal health and overall success of the company. This role involves formulating financial plans, driving business growth and leading teams.

Plus, there are many types of chief financial officers such as startup CFOs, growth CFOs, turnaround CFOs, acquisition CFOs, public company CFOs, etc. You can choose the specialty that best suits your skills and needs.

5. chief accounting officer

Increase in pay since 2024: 19.83 percent

Mid-range salary in 2025: $222,154 to $272,736

summary of the role

In the fifth-largest jump in finance salaries is the chief accounting officer. A CAO leads a company’s accounting department and is primarily responsible for financial reporting, budgeting and regulatory compliance. They oversee daily accounting operations, ensure the accuracy of financial statements and implement strategies to increase profitability. CAOs work closely with other executives, especially the CFO, and are usually in constant contact with the board of directors.

what to expect

The position offers high earning potential, significant influence over a company’s financial strategy, and the opportunity to lead a team, all of which can have a major impact on a business. CAOs can develop their expertise in financial management and regulatory compliance, often opening doors to diverse and challenging projects within a company.

6. controller

Increase in pay since 2024: 16.89 percent

Mid-range salary in 2025: $182,266 to $201,451

summary of the role

The duties of a controller can vary quite a bit depending on the nature and size of the company. Generally speaking, they oversee daily accounting operations, including payroll, accounts payable and accounts receivable. They manage staff, ensure accurate financial reports and maintain ledgers. A controller works closely with budget and audit departments, produces financial outlook reports and deals with regulatory agencies.

what to expect

Being a controller has high earning potential, job stability and is a key role within a company. You may have the opportunity to travel to conferences and you can perform the position almost entirely from home. Broadly speaking, controllers thrive in demanding roles, effectively responding to unexpected changes and rising to meet new expectations.

7. project accountant

Increase in pay since 2024: 16.23 percent

Mid-range salary in 2025: $96,906 to $107,106

summary of the role

A project accountant manages the financial aspects of specific company projects by maintaining project records, studying budget discrepancies and identifying potential problems. Working closely with other team members, particularly project managers, they’re also responsible for approving and managing project expenses and invoices.

what to expect

Let’s start with salary: It pays well with a hefty raise over 2024. This role lets you work on different projects in various industries, which can increase your experience and skills relatively quickly. Project accountants ensure financial accuracy and compliance, which can help with career progression into a senior project accountant or a controller post, for example.