Accountancy jobs rise as businesses search for professionals

The number of accountancy jobs has increased as businesses search for professionals to fill roles in the sector, according to a survey from recruitment consultant Robert Walters.

The survey showed that demand for accountancy professionals has remained strong throughout 2017, with the number of job roles in the UK rising by 15 per cent in the third quarter of the year.

Shortage

The increase in accountancy job roles comes as a result of businesses in the sector facing a skills shortage, with businesses still looking for highly skilled professionals to fill roles despite uncertainties over Brexit.

Robert Walters revealed the skills that are the most in demand in the accountancy sector, with technical group accountants, analysts and transactional leads being amongst the most sought-after.

Skilled regulatory specialists are also in high demand and are being offered higher salaries and contractor day rates as a result of employers facing pressure from regulators.  

The survey also revealed the most important factors for finance professionals when searching for an employer, with career progression opportunities, company culture and team dynamic being more valued than salary.

Strong

Commenting on the increase in accountancy vacancies, Robert Walters Director Phill Westcott said: “Demand has been strong throughout the year for finance professionals, particularly at mid-level with employers facing significant skills shortages.”

He added that there has been a shift towards more employers making use of contractors in order to create a more flexible workforce, especially due to the challenges and shifting economic conditions surrounding Brexit.