Bermuda is situated in an astoundingly beautiful stretch of the Atlantic Ocean and is a mere 1000km from North Carolina, meaning flights from New York and other eastern US cities reach their shores in less than two hours.Composed of approximately 180 islands, linked by bridges, and divided into nine picturesque parishes all of our islands feature spectacular beaches, lush vegetation and unique wildlife.
Aside from the luxurious environment, Bermuda is also a popular destination for qualified accountants looking to move overseas and gain international work experience.The career opportunities, combined with a tax free salary, make Bermuda a highly desirable location.
Over 20% of Bermuda jobs are filled by expatriates. Each year many new ones arrive, drawn by higher salaries and lower taxes, an enhanced quality of life and the opportunity to experience life in a different culture. Indeed, Bermuda enjoys one of the highest per capita incomes in the world, equal to that of the United States.
As one of the world's premier offshore financial centres, Bermuda has plenty of job openings for accountants.
The 'Big 4' (Deloitte, Ernst & Young, KPMG, and PricewaterhouseCoopers) all have offices on the island and many newly or recently qualified arrivals start work with one of these companies, typically taking a role as an audit senior, before being promoted to manager or moving into a commercial role. Successful applicants usually have a couple of years experience in a public accounting firm with significant time spent on audit assignments.
Recruitment for audit senior roles tends to be seasonal, with large intakes in the autumn. Contracts are typically for 2 years but it has been known for candidates to enjoy work and life in Bermuda so much that they may decide to stay longer.
Many of the 'Big 4' also employ newly qualified accountants to work with their clients on secondment. Prior financial services experience is not always required but strong accounting skills are.Many secondment seniors are offered positions by clients at the end of their contract.
Clients of the 'Big 4' companies typically include hedge and mutual funds, insurance and reinsurance companies, and banks. Most use UK, US or Canadian GAAP so familiarity with these, exposure to the industries, and product knowledge can all be advantageous and help jobseekers move straight into roles in these environments.
As such other positions are often available in financial control, fund accounting, trust accounting, internal audit, and much, much more.
For more information on Bermuda and life there visit www.bermudatourism.com
