Finance sector competes for top talent

Intense competition

According to the Navigos Group 2025 Salary and Labor Market Report, the finance/accounting sector remains a top field in terms of recruitment demand and salary levels. Professionals in this sector typically earn 1.5-2 times more than their peers in other industries at equivalent levels.

In Hanoi, senior management positions in financial services and securities can command monthly salaries up to VND381 million (US$14,566). Heads of finance and accounting departments also earn impressive averages, around VND71 million per month. For experienced professionals, entry-level salaries start at VND25 million.

Similarly, the banking sector offers highly attractive salaries, with director-level pay ranging from VND305-457 million. Experienced staff can expect monthly salaries between VND30-38 million.

Students in Finance class. Photo courtesy of BUV

However, these lucrative pay packages come with high competition. The Navigos report emphasizes that finance and banking professionals must master a combination of in-depth expertise, technological proficiency, and essential soft skills to meet the evolving demands of the job market.

This challenge is further intensified by the rapid rise of financial technologies (Fintech), which are reshaping the financial system. Emerging trends like green finance and digital banking are gaining momentum, requiring professionals to acquire knowledge in areas such as blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and big data analytics.

Equipping for success

A "dream salary" in finance and economics is the goal for millions of students. However, reaching such levels of income requires a solid, long-term foundation, starting with choosing the right educational environment.

The British University Vietnam (BUV) offers a range of finance and economics programs, including the BA (Hons) International Business Management, BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance (both awarded by Staffordshire University, U.K.), and the dual-degree BA (Hons) Finance and Economics program, jointly awarded by Staffordshire University and BUV.

These programs are recognized for their integration of academic theory and practical application, equipping students with the skills necessary to compete in the global job market.

At BUV, students gain access to a broad knowledge base, ranging from macroeconomics, corporate finance, and investment management to cutting-edge fields like fintech, digital transformation, financial data analytics, and risk management.

100% of BUV lecturers are internationally accredited. Photo courtesy of BUV

In response to technological advancements, BUV has introduced courses focused on digital banking, data analytics, and AI. The university has also developed modules in green finance and sustainable development to stay aligned with global trends.

Upon graduation, students earn internationally recognized degrees and are well-equipped to enter the global workforce. Career prospects include roles such as financial manager, investment analyst, financial analyst, banking specialist, and risk analyst—positions known for high salaries, strong promotion prospects, and opportunities in top-tier corporations and professional environments.

From year one, BUV students work on real-world business projects and gain hands-on internship experience. Photo courtesy of BUV

Additionally, students in the Finance and Economics programs benefit from international exchange opportunities at 55 prestigious universities in 16 countries, as well as internships at leading institutions like Deloitte, Ernst & Young, HSBC, Standard Chartered Bank, ANZ, and SSI—longstanding partners of BUV. Many students secure full-time positions with competitive salaries and senior roles following these internships.

Dr. Dong Manh Cuong, Head of the Business School at British University Vietnam, notes that the programs are designed to balance theory with practice, integrating both technological and soft skill development. "Students are exposed to a wide range of specialized knowledge while also developing analytical, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills."

See more about BUV's Finance and Economics programs here.