Q & A FOR EMPLOYERS

Sharp Consultancy’s Salary Survey 2026/27: Finding the Best Talent in a Competitive Yorkshire Finance Market

Over the past 12 months, the Yorkshire finance and accountancy employment market has entered a relatively stable period following several years of volatility and rapid salary inflation.Hiring activity remains consistent across most finance disciplines, however employers are adopting a more cautious and measured approach to permanent recruitment, likely borne from the economic uncertainty businesses are navigating. As a result, there has been a wider increase across interim hires and salary movement has become more controlled with recruitment processes taking longer than in previous years. Despite this stabilisation, skills shortages continue to be a defining feature of the market. This is particularly evident between the qualified and senior level, where replacement hiring in key roles continues to exceed the available candidate pool and the data reflected in this salary survey aligns closely with what we are seeing daily across the Yorkshire finance market. While hiring volumes have levelled out, the underlying challenge remains unchanged: demand for high-quality finance professionals continues to outweigh supply. What the data does not always fully capture, but we have seen consistently across the market, is the increasing complexity behind each hire. Employers are no longer simply recruiting for technical capability; they are seeking finance professionals who can influence, adapt and add value, often in uncertain trading conditions. This has resulted in longer recruitment timelines, narrower shortlists and a growing reliance on trusted market insight to secure the right individuals. Across the candidate market we are seeing a more selective approach to new opportunities. Job seekers are making increasingly considered career decisions, weighing role scope, leadership quality, flexibility and long-term opportunity alongside salary. Many of the strongest candidates are not actively applying for roles, which means traditional, employer led recruitment strategies are no longer sufficient. Employers are no longer simply recruiting for technical capability; they are seeking finance professionals who can influence, adapt and add value, often in uncertain trading conditions.This is where a relationship-driven recruitment partner becomes vital. At Sharp Consultancy, and through our work with our executive division - The CFO Partnership - our long-standing relationships across the South Yorkshire finance community allow us to engage with high-performing talent that is not always visible to the wider market. Our understanding of both client environments and individual career motivations enables us to make introductions that are aligned not just on skills, but on culture, ambition and long-term fit. In a market where salary growth is increasingly controlled and competition for talent remains intense, our ability to advise, challenge and guide both clients and candidates is vital. Recruitment partnerships built on trust, transparency and deep market knowledge are what ultimately ensure the best outcomes - securing the right talent for our clients, and the right opportunities for the candidates we represent.

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For many, it’s not ‘business as usual’ but more ‘business in unusual times’. These are some of the most commonly asked recruitment questions from employers across Yorkshire to our highly experienced team of consultants.

I’m concerned about staffing levels – what can I do if people take time off because they are sick or have to care for others?

It is essential to make provisions for absenteeism and temporary or interim staff are an ideal solution. Specialising in a range of roles and at all levels from admin support to senior managers and directors, these are experienced individuals who can hit the ground the running at short notice.

I need temporary staff but I don’t have time to conduct interviews – what should I do?

We have an extensive network of temporary finance and accountancy professionals, all of whom have been previously interviewed and background checked by our experienced consultants so the right individuals can be in place typically within 24 hours of a need being identified.

We are seeing increased demand and need a new finance manager – are people looking for roles?

Very much so. There are sectors such as food retail and production, logistics and distribution, healthcare, online education providers, pharmaceuticals and IT suppliers and infrastructure where demand has increased and, as a result, need to expand their teams. Through our extensive database we can reach out to the very best talent and identify the top candidates for your recruitment needs.

Can I recruit a temp and make the position permanent when things return to normal?

It is important to be clear on the terms from the outset to ensure the right candidate is identified; it is not unusual for a role to become permanent, however some temps may not want a permanent position. Discuss this with your recruitment partner and they will identify ideal candidates.

How can I conduct interviews remotely?

With many people working from home, it can be easier to schedule interviews remotely. Platforms such as Zoom can replicate face-to-face meetings as closely as possible. Take a look at our advice on how to conduct a successful remote interview here

I have a new member of staff due to start – what should I do during lockdown?

Try to replicate your usual induction process albeit remotely. Provide induction packs online or via email, conduct a virtual tour and schedule introduction meetings via Zoom or Google Meet. Communicate your expectations for their first week and establish a routine for updates and progress checks. For more suggestions take a look here

Sharp Consultancy specialises in the recruitment of temporary, interim and permanent finance professionals. With offices in Leeds and Sheffield our highly experienced team of consultants recruit for positions throughout Yorkshire and beyond CONTACT UStoday to discuss your recruitment needs with a member of our team.