The best finance jobs to start with in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is ranked as one of the most popular destinations to work for professionals from all over the world. This is quite understandable: we have an excellent work-life balance, our salaries are relatively high and there are many opportunities for development. If you specialise in finance, you are even more fortunate: the chances of getting a good job are very high. Maryem El Kouaa, specialist in accounting & finance recruitment, explains which jobs are the best to kickstart your finance career in the Netherlands.

What are the most popular finance jobs for internationals in the Netherlands, and why? 

"The three most common accounting related jobs for international finance candidates working in the Netherlands are accounts payable specialist, accounts receivable specialist and financial accountant. As an accounts payable specialist, you are coordinating the invoice process, which consists of registering, checking and paying incoming invoices. You are either responsible for one part of the process or for the whole process from beginning to end, depending on the organisation and your experience", Maryem explains. 

"As an accounts receivable specialist, on the other hand, you are collecting outstanding cash flows. Next to this administrative part of the job, you could also be responsible for managing all the processes regarding outstanding cashflows. Anyhow, strong communication skills are important because you are constantly interacting with clients about payments that need to be made", Maryem adds.

"Being a financial accountant means combining the two jobs above: it is your responsibility to manage all of the cashflows – both incoming and outgoing. The end-of-month, end-of-quarter and end-of-year closings – to prepare for the external audits – are part of your job as well. If you are a senior, you are also concerned with checking all of the results and producing reports." 

Why are these roles suitable for international candidates? 

"Companies in the Netherlands often do business with other countries, which means that most invoices are written in English. As an international candidate, you are already used to speaking English, Spanish or another language, so this should be easy for you. Moreover, it can be an advantage if you are familiar with the cultural aspects of the clients' business that you are in contact with", says Maryem. 

"Besides, there has been a shortage of Dutch finance professionals for years. As an international candidate, you might have unique and therefore valuable knowledge about accounting, which can be very useful for the company you are working for. Amsterdam is known for its international business market and good career chances, but there are also many possibilities in cities like Rotterdam and Eindhoven", adds Maryem.

What can international candidates expect when applying for a finance job in the Netherlands?

Maryem: "If you have a bachelor's or master's degree in finance and some working experience, your chances of getting a job are quite high. However, your first career move as an international candidate in the Netherlands will probably be horizontal instead of vertical. The level of finance jobs is quite high here and the working methods often differ from other countries, so it may take some time for you to settle in. But working in the Netherlands is worth it because you can get a lot in return: a higher salary, much flexibility and a future-proof career."

Learn more

Do you need personal advice about working in the Netherlands? Please contact Maryem via maryem.elkouaa@robertwalters.com or tel. +31 (0)20 644 4655.