Lee

Sharp Consultancy's Salary Survey 2025/26: Resilience in the Face of Change: The Evolving Jobs Market by Lee Sweeney

​In last year’s commentary I said that a ‘degree of normality’ had returned to the economy and solid GDP growth had finally ‘rid us of the word recession’.Before I chastise myself horribly, I suspect I wasn’t the only one that couldn’t have forecast what a difference two changes in governments could make (UK first and US second). ​The former immediately created a change in business sentiment which changes to the tax regime further dampened. The word recession reappeared. The latter led to worldwide economic flux for reasons we are all now very familiar with – tariffs anyone?​What does this mean for employment? Employers don’t like uncertainty because it is errr, so uncertain. Some hiring is by necessity, but some is investment; the former continues and the latter reduces. ​The market is however not ‘dead’. We’ve seen ‘dead’ before (think credit crunch and early Covid). We believe that the market has remained surprisingly resilient. I believe that is because businesses have suffered enough shocks over recent years to have become more resilient. Whether I’m right or wrong, the jobs market (for accountants at least) is somewhere between OK and reasonably good. If you have skills, experience and sensible expectations you are very likely to find what you are looking for in relatively short order. "If you have skills, experience and sensible expectations you are very likely to find what you are looking for in relatively short order."Looking through the employer’s lens, good accounting professionals can be found – but they’re not ‘ten-a-penny’. As I discussed in last year’s commentary, employers continue to try and force the issue on increased office-based working and generally (though our survey suggests this is beginning to soften), employees continue to resist. I think we’re still a year or two away from some kind of equilibrium. Salary increases have flattened but job seekers haven’t fully embraced that yet (though again one of our salary survey questions suggests it is softening) and so there is still a need for a degree of generosity to entice potential employees – there is enough choice for them to wait a little longer for the next opportunity if your package isn’t quite attractive enough. ​It appears that private equity firms still have funds to invest and lenders still have appetite to lend and so, perhaps slightly counter intuitively, the deals market still seems to be moving at a reasonable pace with optimism for a better year ahead. ​I like to conclude by turning to my crystal ball and predicting the future. Last year I utterly failed (though as mentioned above, I can perhaps be forgiven). The resilience of the economy (recession didn’t happen) and the employment market gives me hope – economic disaster aside caused by tariffs or some other huge shock, I suspect job seekers and employers will see a reasonably good jobs market. There is definitely some uncertainty in the year to come, but there is a very strong desire in the business community to find a way through or around whatever lies ahead (and experience from shocks gone by to steer a safe course), so the odds of a stable year outweigh the odds of a poor one.Download the full Salary Survey here!​

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Management Accountant Jobs in York

​Management Accountant Jobs: Everything You Need to Know

Are you considering a career as a Management Accountant?

Management accountants play a pivotal role in driving financial performance and strategic decision-making within organisations. In this article, we cover everything from what a management accountant does, to the skills, qualifications, and career progression opportunities in this exciting field.

What is a Management Accountant?

A management accountant is a finance professional responsible for providing financial insights and analysis to support strategic planning, budgeting, and decision-making within an organisation. Unlike financial accountants, who focus on historical data and compliance, management accountants work closely with management teams to forecast future performance and identify opportunities for improvement.

Main Duties of a Management Accountant

The role of a management accountant can vary depending on the size and nature of the organisation, but common responsibilities include:

  • Budgeting and Forecasting: Developing budgets and financial forecasts to guide business planning.

  • Cost Analysis: Monitoring and analysing costs to improve efficiency and profitability.

  • Financial Reporting: Preparing detailed management reports to present to senior leaders.

  • Performance Monitoring: Tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) and identifying trends.

  • Strategic Planning Support: Assisting with financial planning for long-term projects and investments.

  • Risk Management: Evaluating financial risks and recommending mitigation strategies.

  • Variance Analysis: Comparing actual financial performance against budgets to identify discrepancies and areas for improvement.

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Management Accountant?

A successful management accountant requires a mix of technical expertise and soft skills. Key competencies include:

  • Numerical and Analytical Skills: Strong ability to interpret complex financial data and make informed decisions.

  • Communication Skills: Presenting financial information clearly to non-finance professionals.

  • Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in financial reporting and analysis.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities: Developing practical solutions to financial challenges.

  • Time Management: Handling multiple tasks and meeting tight deadlines.

  • IT Proficiency: Familiarity with accounting software and tools such as Excel, SAP, or Oracle.

Qualifications Required for Management Accountant Jobs

While specific qualifications may vary, many management accountant roles require a combination of education and professional certification. Common qualifications include:

  • Bachelor’s Degree: In finance, accounting, economics, or a related field.

  • Professional Certification: Achieving a recognized certification such as:

    • Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)

    • Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)

  • Work Experience: Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level accounting roles.

  • Employers often value candidates who demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development.

Career Progression Opportunities for Management Accountants

Management accountancy offers excellent career progression opportunities. Starting as a junior or assistant management accountant, you can work your way up to senior positions such as:

  • Finance Manager: Overseeing financial operations and leading finance teams.

  • Financial Controller: Managing the overall financial health of the organisation.

  • Chief Financial Officer (CFO): Providing strategic financial leadership at the executive level.

  • Consultant: Advising businesses on financial strategies and efficiency improvements.

Many management accountants also specialise in areas like risk management, data analytics, or corporate strategy, broadening their career prospects further.

Why Choose a Career as a Management Accountant?

Management accountancy offers a dynamic and rewarding career path with opportunities to make a tangible impact on business success. It’s a profession that combines analytical thinking, strategic planning, and the ability to influence decision-making at the highest levels.

Ready to explore management accountant jobs or find the perfect candidate for your organisation? Contact us today to learn how our finance and accountancy recruitment services can help!

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