Navigating Career Transitions: From Public to Private Sector Roles in Accounting & Finance
The landscape of accounting and finance is evolving. Public sector professionals have enjoyed career stability, structured environments, and meaningful community impact for years. But now, a wave of change pushes many to explore new territory.
Budget cuts and fiscal realignments have triggered widespread government layoffs, particularly in administrative, accounting, and finance departments. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, over 3,000 public-sector finance roles were eliminated between 2023 and Q1 2025, marking one of the sharpest reductions over the past decade.
For those affected, the private sector presents new opportunities alongside fresh challenges. This latest edition of the newsletter will examine what it takes to leap successfully.
Why the Private Sector?
Private companies are actively hiring finance talent, especially those with a strong understanding of controls, compliance, and reporting. However, unlike public-sector roles, private-sector organizations move faster, demand tech-savvy employees, and expect finance to play a strategic role in growth and decision-making.
Transitioning professionals must adapt to a different culture and upskill to meet the demands of the private sector.
Top Tools & Platforms to Learn
To compete for private-sector roles, public-sector professionals must gain proficiency in widely used tools and technologies. Below are key systems and the best training options to learn them:
1. ERP Systems
Used to manage financial data, track inventory, and streamline operations.
Common platforms: SAP, Oracle NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics 365
Recommended Courses:
- SAP Financial Accounting and Controlling – Coursera
- NetSuite ERP Fundamentals – Oracle Academy
2. Financial Modeling & Forecasting Tools
Essential for scenario planning, budgeting, and investment analysis.
Standard tools: Microsoft Excel (Advanced), Planful, Workday Adaptive Planning
Recommended Courses:
- FMVA® (Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst) – Corporate Finance Institute
- Advanced Excel for Financial Professionals – LinkedIn Learning
3. Business Intelligence & Analytics
Translating data into insights is now a core finance function.
Common platforms: Power BI, Tableau, Alteryx
Recommended Courses:
• Power BI for Finance – Udemy
• Data Analytics for Business – Coursera (offered by Google)
Advice for Decision-Makers
As public sector layoffs increase, companies in the private sector have a unique opportunity to tap into a high-integrity, compliance-driven talent pool. But onboarding these professionals successfully requires intention.
What Leaders Should Do:
Offer structured onboarding for ERPs and internal systems
• Set clear expectations around performance metrics and pace
• Encourage mentorship with peers who’ve had similar transitions
• Support continuous learning through certification reimbursements or online course access.
Tips for Job Seekers
If you’re an accounting or finance professional considering a private sector role, here’s how to prepare:
• Upskill now: Start training in ERPs and data analysis; these are non-negotiable in most private roles.
• Translate your experience: Focus your résumé on results. Highlight how you improved internal controls, optimized budgets, or ensured audit readiness.
• Lean into your strengths: Public sector professionals often excel in compliance, governance, and documentation, which are highly valuable skills in regulated industries.
• Network smartly: Join LinkedIn groups, attend webinars, and contact private sector professionals for informational interviews.
Whether you’re an experienced finance leader or just beginning to consider your next step, the public-to-private transition can feel daunting, but it also holds tremendous potential. With the right mindset, tools, and support, this shift can be a launchpad for long-term career growth. Controller’s Group Inc. specializes in helping professionals with their accounting and finance roles. Let us help you chart your path forward.
Looking to hire or make a career move? Connect with us today.