Key Hiring Trends in Accounting and Finance for 2024

Increased Demand for Finance Transformation Specialists

Businesses continued to prioritise finance transformation to enhance efficiency and decision-making capabilities. As organisations adopted advanced technologies, professionals with expertise in digital finance transformation, ERP systems, and automation tools were in high demand.
Key areas of focus included:
Automation and AI: Finance professionals proficient in tools like Power BI, SAP S/4HANA, and robotic process automation (RPA) remained highly sought after.
Process Optimisation: Companies streamlined financial operations to reduce manual workloads, requiring talent with a process improvement mindset.
Takeaway: Candidates who combined technical proficiency with process optimisation skills stood out in 2024.

The Shift Toward Strategic and Analytical Skills

The role of finance professionals continued to expand beyond traditional reporting, with businesses seeking individuals capable of driving strategic decision-making. Key skills included:
The ability to interpret complex financial data and provide actionable insights.
Proficiency in leveraging data analytics tools to enhance performance.
Collaboration with leadership teams to support growth strategies.
In-demand roles included Financial Analysts, FP&A Managers, and Commercial Finance Managers—positions that required a balance of analytical expertise and strong communication skills.

The Rise of ESG-Driven Finance Roles

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations solidified their place as central elements of financial planning and reporting. Businesses sought finance professionals who could integrate ESG principles into strategy and compliance frameworks.
Key trends included:
ESG Accountants: Specialists in sustainable reporting frameworks like IFRS S1/S2 and CSRD.
Risk Specialists: Professionals assessing the financial impact of ESG-related risks and opportunities.
Takeaway: The demand for ESG expertise created new opportunities for specialised professionals across finance teams.

Growth in Interim and Contract Roles

Throughout 2024, businesses embraced interim and contract hiring to gain flexibility in uncertain economic conditions. Short-term roles proved instrumental for projects such as:
Finance transformation initiatives.
Mergers, acquisitions, and system implementations.
Year-end reporting and audit preparation.
Benefits for employers: Access to specialised talent without long-term commitments.
Benefits for candidates: Exposure to diverse projects and industries.

Competition for Qualified Accounting Talent

The shortage of skilled accountants persisted throughout 2024, particularly for mid-senior roles. Professionals with ACCA, ACA, or CIMA qualifications were highly sought after, increasing competition among employers.
Trends that emerged:
Employers who offered competitive compensation and clear career progression attracted the best candidates.
Hybrid and flexible work arrangements were critical in motivating and retaining top-tier talent.

Technology-Driven Upskilling

The adoption of digital tools reshaped the skill sets required in accounting and finance roles. Professionals who upskilled in areas like data analytics and cloud accounting platforms remained in high demand.
Key upskilling areas included:
Data Analytics: Tools like Tableau, Power BI, and SQL.
Cloud Accounting: Platforms such as Xero, QuickBooks, and NetSuite.
AI Integration: Leveraging machine learning for tasks like fraud detection and forecasting.
Takeaway: Employers who invested in upskilling their teams drove digital transformation and retained top performers.

Retention and Employer Branding as Priorities

Throughout 2024, businesses recognised the importance of retention strategies in a competitive hiring market. Enhancing employer branding and workplace culture became key to reducing turnover and attracting top talent.
Top strategies included:
Offering flexible working arrangements.
Developing clear pathways for career progression.
Enhancing employee benefits and professional development opportunities.

Reflecting on 2024 with Elevate Partners

The past year reinforced the need for organisations to adapt to emerging trends in accounting and finance. From the rise of ESG roles to increased demand for finance transformation experts, businesses that embraced these changes were best positioned to attract and retain top-tier talent.
At Elevate Partners, we remained at the forefront of these trends, partnering with employers to build high-performing teams that delivered results.

Looking ahead to 2025? Contact Elevate Partners to learn how we can support your hiring strategy and secure the talent you need for continued success.