ROBERT WALTERS UK JOBS INDEX – Q1 2017

• The number of accounting and finance roles increased by 41% in the first quarter of 2017 compared to the same time last year.
• Adverts for certified accountants made up 14% of finance roles advertised in the first quarter of 2017, while assistant accountant roles made up 10%. 7% of roles were for finance managers.

The latest Robert Walters UK Jobs Index has revealed that job vacancies for accounting and finance professionals rose by 41% in the first quarter of 2017 compared to the same time last year, outstripping the average level of 25% for all professions.

Mid-level accounting roles made up the largest percentage of advertised roles at 14%, followed by 10% for assistant accountants and 7% for finance managers.

Marcus Blackburn, Associate Director, Robert Walters comments:

“In 2016 many employers scale back or postpone hiring plans as new strategies were developed in the face of an uncertain economic and political climate.”

“However, with confidence steadily rising many businesses are once again looking to expand in 2017, driving demand for accounting and finance specialists, particularly at the mid and junior level.”

“In particular tech, e-commerce, digital and media businesses are looking to take on accounting specialists who can play a strategic role, helping to ensure long term, stable growth as firms look to adapt as Britain’s economy evolves as negotiations to leave the EU develop.”

CONTRACTORS IN DEMAND FROM FINANCIAL SERVICES EMPLOYERS

In addition to rising demand from businesses within commerce and industry, financial services employers are also looking to take on accounting and finance professionals.

With banks and financial services firms looking to capitalise on positive economic conditions, many are keen to secure a flexible workforce, creating opportunities for specialists in contract and interim roles.

Marcus Blackburn, Associate Director at Robert Walters continues:

“Confidence has risen among financial services firms and many are keen to take on staff to make the most of increasing investment activity.”

“These businesses are aware of the current fluid nature of the economic landscape, and as such are keen to secure a workforce which can be flexible to meet their changing needs.”

“This is creating opportunities for contractors, with high daily rates available particularly for those with a background in investment and asset management.”