The financial landscape is evolving fast, and 2026 will reward companies that plan ahead rather than wait for stability. Even as markets show signs of recovery, uncertainty remains the defining characteristic of today’s economy. For finance leaders, that uncertainty is also opportunity—the chance to strengthen teams, refine forecasting models, and turn volatility into a competitive edge.
Financial forecasts for 2026 remain generally positive, but signs of strain persist after the macroeconomic turbulence of 2025. Throughout the past year, GDP projections were revised downward, food prices stayed elevated, and global trade policies shifted unpredictably, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
Looking ahead, EIU experts expect new waves of volatility driven by protectionist trade measures, geopolitical conflict risks, and evolving monetary policy.
That’s why now is the time to build a finance team designed for agility and resilience. Is your organization prepared to recruit, develop, and retain financial talent that can thrive in uncertainty? Explore the latest CFO hiring trends and discover how resilient finance teams are setting the pace for success in 2026.
Financial forecasts for 2026 remain positive but exhibit signs of weakness stemming from the macroeconomic upheavals of 2025. Throughout 2025, GDP forecasts were trimmed down, food prices remained high, and trade policies were volatile, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit.
Understanding the 2026 Economic Landscape
Key economic indicators and forecasts for 2026 continue to weigh on businesses. The Conference Board believes higher tariffs and uncertainty could stunt GDP growth. Consumers will face higher prices. Fiscal policy might not help much.
This macroeconomic uncertainty brings potential challenges and opportunities for businesses.
Challenges
- Developing budgets for departments as revenue waxes and wanes
- Slowing global growth could stunt revenue
- Rising costs could force higher prices for products
- Tariffs could reduce purchasing power
Opportunities
- Focusing on innovation using software tools, such as AI-based platforms
- Improving operational efficiency in finance
- Building financial resilience
- Strategic reallocation to high-growth sectors to stimulate revenue growth
Finance Recruiting Strategies for 2026
Your finance recruiting strategy should emphasize internal promotions and finance team development.
A strong CFO sets the tone, and financial leadership recruitment means looking inward to hire the right officer. Around 65% of CFO hires in 2025 were internal promotions, notes High Radius. Another survey shows 59% of CFOs are hired from within. External hiring was just at 28%. Internal promotion benefits abound. The person is already familiar with how your business operates and what success entails. Additionally, it fosters a sense of continuity throughout the rest of the company. A seasoned CFO could command upwards of $ 320,000 for their expertise. But the right hire can make a huge difference in your company’s operations.
Look for a CFO who knows what AI tools to use for finance. A large majority, or 85%, of finance leaders are advancing their AI knowledge, notes Decision Inc. Leverage technology and AI in recruitment processes to look for red flags, innovation, and thought leadership in your CFO or finance team hiring.
Focus your recruiting efforts on cross-functional finance skills and adaptability. Half of CFOs prioritize strategic thinking and commercial acumen when hiring team members. CFOs are investing in the agility of their people while also seeking to enhance operational efficiency across the entire company.
CFO Hiring Trends in 2026
Note these CFO hiring trends in 2026 as part of an economic volatility strategy.
High Radius states that 92% of CFO appointments stayed within the same sector. So, if you don’t have a solid candidate from within your team, focus your finance recruiting strategy on sector-specific CFO hiring.
There is a growing demand for tech-savvy CFOs, which is understandable given the rise of AI-based platforms. Look for a CFO to drive technological innovation by:
- Implementing or overhauling enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems
- Using AI in finance hiring
- Integrating artificial intelligence for greater efficiency
- Managing change
- Driving organization-wide adoption of new technologies
Emphasize value creation in finance and operational efficiency. Companies seek CFOs who can drive sustainable growth and organic value creation. It doesn’t matter if your team is more streamlined if it doesn’t create additional revenue.
Building a Resilient Finance Team
Developing economic volatility strategies means your team must be resilient in the face of challenges. Your finance recruiting strategy builds this foundation.
Identify key roles and competencies for the finance team development. The key is to develop your team’s expertise by creating a well-rounded, cross-functional team. Upskilling and cross-training can alleviate a gap if someone departs.
Focus on optimizing financial operations and enhancing data fluency. Data analysis with your ERP is only as good as the people who interpret the information to make informed decisions.
Implement continuous learning and development programs. Upskilling internally, along with learning and development, has several benefits:
- Keeps your team engaged
- Builds long-term success
- Creates adaptability and agility
- Supports strategic growth
- Rewards current talent
- Increases retention
- Makes your team understand other business roles
- Addresses skills gaps
Foster a culture of adaptability and innovation. If you’re not continually improving, your competition is.
Encourage cross-functional collaboration and strategic thinking. Strategy is about how your company overcomes challenges and grows over time.
Recommendations from MRINetwork
Our team highly recommends retooling your finance team development through internal promotions, upskilling, and creating an adaptable, agile, tech-savvy team.
Contact MRINetwork for more ideas on how to build finance team resilience as your company moves forward.
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