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The global challenges of recent years have continued to impact the finance recruitment market in 2024. This roundup highlights key trends observed throughout the year, as well as opportunities and challenges for 2025.
Qualified finance professionals have faced a more challenging market compared to previous years. Recruitment processes are taking longer, with UK vacancies down by 25% compared to countries like the US, Germany, and Australia. This slowdown has been attributed to a combination of factors, including economic uncertainty, inflationary pressures, and shifting regulatory environments. Additionally, many organisations have adopted a cautious approach to hiring, focusing on internal restructuring and cost-cutting rather than expansion.
The rise of automation and AI in finance is also reshaping the job market, as certain roles—such as transactional accounting and reporting—are becoming less in demand. Instead, employers are prioritising candidates with advanced technical skills, data analytics expertise, and the ability to drive strategic decision-making. Below are the standout trends:
Improved Packages & Development Opportunities: Employers have enhanced compensation packages and personal development offerings to attract and retain top talent.
Adoption of Remote/Hybrid Work: Smaller, high-growth companies continue to prioritize hybrid and remote working, allowing access to talent pools beyond their immediate location.
Focus on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I): Organizations have strengthened their focus on inclusive hiring practices to foster better decision-making and create welcoming workplaces.
Economic Uncertainty: Inflation and fears of recession have prompted cautious hiring practices, slowing recruitment and intensifying job competition.
Longer Hiring Processes: Securing interviews has become more difficult as hiring managers capitalize on an oversupply of candidates.
Shift Toward In-Office Work: Larger companies, including Amazon and PE-backed firms, are reverting to full-time office models despite evidence supporting the benefits of hybrid arrangements.
Looking ahead, several recent trends indicate areas of growth and potential:
Technological Transformation: The rise of AI and other innovations is reshaping finance functions, driving the need for upskilling in new business models and cost structures.
Growth in Venture Capital & Private Equity Activity: Increased movement within the venture capital and private equity sectors could boost market confidence and create new job opportunities.
Sector-Specific Opportunities: Niche areas like renewables and data centres are set to attract significant investment, making specialization in these fields highly advantageous.
If you would like to discuss this article in more detail or how we can support your 2025 recruitment needs, please get in touch:
Jed Brokenshire
E: jed.brokenshire@goodmanmasson.com
T: 020 7324 0511
