CIMA’s survey into the aspirations of finance professionals in their 20s and 30s has revealed that the majority prioritised working for employers who shared their values over those who could offer a high financial reward.
In addition, respondents’ open responses indicated that they were attracted by a company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) values and company missions.
The study also revealed that ‘Generation Y’ is ambitious with a global outlook. Of those surveyed, 34% hope to become senior managers by the time they are 35, with 12% expecting to have their own business by the age of 33 or younger. Of those looking to become self-employed, their objective was to earn between £71,040 and £87,040 on average.

Global ambitions

Meanwhile 36% of respondents looking for a new job in the next two years intended to seek new opportunities abroad. The most popular destination being the UK, closely followed by the US, Australia, Canada and UAE. The primary reason given for the change in location was the opportunity to experience a different culture, closely followed by a better work/life balance rather than to increase their salary.
Andrew Harding, Managing Director of CIMA, said: ‘The CIMA survey shows an aspirational generation keen to climb the corporate ladder on their own terms. With the challenge of youth unemployment, it is encouraging to see tomorrow’s generation aiming high and open to new experiences while maintaining a healthy work/life balance.
‘In this volatile climate, the value added by talented and ambitious people allows businesses to be competitive and resilient. Business leaders must match the aspirations of Gen Y by developing skills and providing satisfying jobs to seize this opportunity.’
Find out more about graduate salaries in 2013.