A large proportion (about two-thirds) of Middle East accounting professionals are currently looking to change jobs, according to a new study.

 

Professionals cite the desire for an improved salary and better quality of life as the main drivers behind their search for a new position, said the study conducted by IMA, one of the world’s largest associations focused exclusively on advancing the management accounting profession.

 

The second Middle East salary survey by IMA analyses compensation packages and job satisfaction levels for accounting professionals in the region.

 

Other key findings from the report are: 

• Nearly 46 percent of respondents said the greatest factor affecting job satisfaction was the relationship they had with their co-workers.

• Professionals holding the CMA (Certified Management Accountant) credential earn 50 percent more in salary and 41 percent more in total compensation than non-CMA professionals.

• While most finance professionals in the US and China have pension options, only 19 percent of Middle East professionals have this benefit.

 

“The results of this survey reflect the ongoing economic challenges accounting professionals are facing around the world and the political and social changes taking place in the Middle East,” said Raef Lawson, professor-in-residence and vice president of research at IMA. “Nevertheless, IMA members, especially those with the CMA credential, appear to be doing well overall,” he said. – TradeArabia News Service