Navigating the Finance Hiring Landscape: Trends Shaping 2025

Finance roles remain in high demand, but the hiring process is becoming more complex. 

Required skills are evolving, ranging from AI and automation to data analytics. However, candidates must also have traditional financial expertise. As a result, companies are rethinking their current recruitment strategies to attract and retain top talent. 

Here are some of the top trends to be aware of in 2025 so that you can remain proactive and competitive.

Top 2025 Trends That Should Be on Your Radar

The financial services are rapidly evolving, especially when it comes to fintech, digital, and how clients seek guidance. 

Here are some finance trends for 2025 when aiming to find skilled finance professionals, and how they contribute to in-demand roles. 

Persistent Demand 

 FP&A and ESG talent demand remains high, as does accounting, reporting, and tax-related roles. 

Some of the most in-demand roles are staff and senior accountants, financial analysts, and those who specialize in financial reporting and technical accounting. There is a spike in demand for financial professionals in hot industries, like healthcare and energy, particularly among those implementing new technology. 

Skills Gaps

Analytics, ESG reporting, and tech-driven finance skills are in short supply. These types of skills gaps are seen as the top barriers to business transformation, as reported by 63% of employers. 

Financial services made many of the top ten lists, focusing on industries with increasing skill requirements. These lists include the need for increasing skills across:

• AI and big data
• Technological literacy 
• Analytical thinking 
• Networks and cybersecurity 
• Resilience, flexibility, and agility 

Tight Talent Pool

Unemployment for finance professionals remains below national averages, which means you have a smaller pool to choose from. The national unemployment rate is currently 4.2%. However, unemployment rates for finance and accounting positions are trending well below that average. For example, the unemployment rate for financial analysts is just 1.9%.

In response, reskilling is becoming a priority among many finance leaders, especially in the AI-powered era.

Flexibility and Tech

Hybrid work and AI adoption are key candidate priorities, which is something to consider when aiming to secure top talent. Hybrid, flexible work has become the norm, and those in high demand want the option to improve work-life balance. 

In terms of artificial intelligence, as stated by the Brookings Institution, AI is not destroying finance jobs — it’s rewriting them. Again, for many companies, this will involve hiring and retraining their existing workforce. Data shows that one in three job seekers uses AI, especially those in tech and finance. 

The use of AI is becoming more common, and many candidates are investing in AI literacy to remain competitive. 

Contract Talent

There has been a growing reliance on contractors to address short-term needs. This trend is being driven by fluctuating workloads and the need for specialized skills.  For example, financial institutions often experience peak workloads due to acquisitions, mergers, or new system implementations. When specialized skills are needed for a specific project, these contractors offer a flexible solution. 

Contract staffing solutions can be cost-effective in certain circumstances, as you’ll avoid long-term costs, including salaries, training, and benefits. 

MRINetwork Can Help You Navigate Finance Hiring Trends 

Expertise in finance recruiting across permanent and contract roles. For over 60 years, MRINetwork has helped businesses, including those in finance, by offering tailored talent and hiring solutions. Our team understands the unique complexities of the finance industry, helping you access the top-tier talent you need to thrive. 

From talent management and retained search capabilities to contract staffing solutions, we help you find the right people for the right roles — often before a company even realizes they need to fill such roles. The financial sector is dynamic and ever-changing, which is why we stay ahead of industry trends, helping you find the talent you need today — and help you prepare for the future.

MRINetwork is here to support companies navigating skills shortages and shifting expectations, which is something the finance industry knows all too well. 

Accounting and Finance Recruitment: Next Steps

Finance hiring is competitive — leaders need proactive strategies. That’s where we step in. MRINetwork connects clients with the talent they need to stay ahead. Find finance and insurance offices to supercharge your hiring strategy in 2025 and beyond.