Salary guides 2024: Accountancy and finance

In the cost of living crisis, income is necessarily highlighted as household budgets are strained. 

“As many are feeling the pinch, we’ve seen more talent move around to secure higher paid roles,” Reed’s Salary Guide 2024: Accountancy and finance - practice explains. 

Only 18% of respondents are now confident of achieving their financial goals, and another 49% somewhat confident.

The top benefit workers seek is also directly tied to pay: an annual salary increment – 45% want this benefit and just 18% currently receive it.

But that doesn’t mean money is the only benefit employers can offer. 

Those looking to attract and retain top talent, but without the deep pockets that simplify that task, can make the most of the gap between the benefits employees want now and the benefits on offer elsewhere: 

• 36% want flexi time and 20% get it
• 36% seek a four-day working week and 7% get it now

For those looking to make a leap, the Robert Half 2024 Salary Guide lists the most in-demand roles and skills.

In-demand permanent jobs 

1. Financial Analyst 
2. Financial Controller 
3. Finance Director/CFO 
4. Finance Manager 
5. Management Accountant 

In-demand ‘soft’ skills

1. Team management 
2. Commercial acumen 
3. Communication skills 
4. Analytical skills 
5. Flexibility and initiative 

In-demand technical skills

1. Financial modelling
2. Data analytics
3. Digital proficiency
4. Cash flow management
5. Forecasting

We’ve also crunched the salary data to show the average salaries by function and role, and the top salaries at the director/partner level in practice across each region.