Starting a New Finance Role: How to Make the Right

Economic Outlook Roundtable: What Yorkshire’s Finance Leaders Are Saying About Growth, Hiring and the Road Ahead

Senior finance professionals from across Yorkshire recently joined Sharp Consultancy for an exclusive roundtable discussion featuring an economic update from Paul Mount, Economist and Deputy Agent at the Bank of England. The session provided a timely, in-depth look at the UK’s economic landscape — followed by a candid conversation about what businesses are experiencing on the ground.The picture that emerged was one of cautious realism. While official forecasts point to easing inflation and a gradual return to stability, many organisations across the region continue to navigate weak demand, rising labour costs, tightening legislation and stalled investment projects. Yet despite these pressures, there remains a strong sense of resilience and adaptability — qualities that have long defined the Yorkshire business community. At Sharp Consultancy, our specialist finance and accountancy teams speak daily to employers and professionals across commerce, industry, public practice and the not-for-profit sector. What we heard in this session closely aligns with the insight we gather from clients and candidates across the region. Below, we explore the key themes shaping business confidence, recruitment activity and the outlook for 2026. Inflation Is Easing, but Confidence Has Yet to Follow The Bank of England outlined its latest central forecast: Inflation expected to gradually return toward the 2% target. GDP growth set to remain modest but stable through 2026. Interest rates anticipated to settle around 3.5% based on market expectations. Unemployment projected to hold near 5%. However, the sentiment in the room was clear: despite improving headline numbers, confidence across most sectors remains fragile. Many organisations described the environment as “flat” — not contracting, but unable to capitalise fully on opportunities due to economic uncertainty. Sharp Consultancy continues to see this play out: businesses are stabilising rather than expanding, focusing on cash management, operational efficiency and carefully controlled hiring. Labour Costs Continue to Reshape Workforce Strategies Wage pressures were a recurring theme throughout the discussion. Employers highlighted: Significant increases to the National Living Wage. Higher employer National Insurance contributions. Expected future changes to minimum wage equalisation for younger workers. Rising cost and complexity associated with apprenticeships. These factors are pushing up costs at every level of the workforce and reshaping recruitment behaviours. Across Sharp Consultancy’s accountancy and finance divisions, we are seeing: Strong demand for replacement hires where roles are business critical. Lower volumes of growth hires, particularly in commercial and project-focused appointments. Clients increasingly prioritising candidates who bring breadth, adaptability and long-term value. Construction & Infrastructure: Capacity Under Pressure Leaders from the construction sector painted a challenging picture — one mirrored by many Sharp Consultancy clients operating across the wider built environment. Key themes included: Planning delays of 9–10 months, particularly related to the Building Safety Act. Businesses holding on to workforce capacity despite reduced margins — a strategy that may not be sustainable in 2026. Difficulty justifying new capital expenditure under IFRS when future cashflows are uncertain. Concerns that smaller subcontractors may not withstand prolonged delays or reduced demand.Yet, attendees also highlighted that construction could become a catalyst for economic recovery — provided policy reform and planning improvements unlock stalled projects. Manufacturing: Rising Costs and Shifting OperationsLeaders representing manufacturing shared concerns around: Rising energy and operational costs. Increased frequency of site closures and offshoring. Significant challenges in attracting engineering and technical talent. Early signs of contraction in several sub-sectors, with aerospace a notable exception. These pressures reinforce the growing importance of finance leaders who can model scenarios, manage volatility and guide long-term planning — roles Sharp Consultancy continues to support across the manufacturing landscape. Charity & Public Sector Organisations Facing Acute Strain For organisations reliant on local authority funding, the challenges are particularly stark. Attendees reported: Government and council funding caps. Rising NI, wage costs and VAT changes adding millions to annual budgets. Increasingly complex consultation requirements under forthcoming employment legislation. The likelihood of significant cuts to the frontline services in the months ahead.Sharp Consultancy’s continues to work closely with organisations navigating these pressures, supporting clients through restructuring, recruitment challenges and financial planning needs. Recruitment Outlook: Stability Over Expansion Across sectors, the message was consistent: 2026 is expected to be cautious, steady and focused on maintaining capability rather than expanding headcount. Attendees forecast: Workforce levels remaining broadly flat. Hiring driven by essential replacement roles. Transformation, M&A and large-scale project hiring likely to remain subdued. Improved recruitment confidence only once interest rates and policy direction stabilise. For employers, this means sharper competition for high-quality finance talent — an area where Sharp Consultancy’s specialist teams continue to provide targeted, market-led support. What Comes Next? A Slow but Steady Rebuild Despite the challenges discussed, the roundtable ended on a constructive note. Many leaders believe that once interest rates settle and stalled investment begins to move, the region could see a more meaningful upturn — potentially from 2026 onwards. Yorkshire businesses have proven time and again that they are resourceful, resilient and ready to adapt. Sharp Consultancy remains committed to supporting them through every stage — whether stabilising teams, recruiting future leaders, or navigating the next phase of growth. If you’d like to understand what these economic trends mean for your business or team, speak to our specialist consultants for a confidential market discussion. Contacts Us

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The first day in a new job can bring a mix of excitement and nerves—especially when starting a new finance or accountancy position. Whether you’re beginning a new role as a Credit Controller, Management Accountant, or stepping into a new leadership opportunity, the right preparation will help ensure a smooth transition.

At Sharp Consultancy, we specialise in placing high-calibre finance professionals into temporary, interim, and permanent roles across Leeds, Sheffield, and Yorkshire. Here's our expert advice on how to make your first days in a new job count.

Bright pink room with an accountant's desk, chair, and computer, offering a cheerful work environment.

Be Prepared Before You Walk Through the Door

Good preparation goes a long way in helping you feel calm and confident on your first day. Here’s what to consider:

Know your route – Plan your journey in advance, whether by car or public transport. Leave extra time for unexpected delays, especially during peak commuting hours.
Understand the dress code – Appear professional and in line with company expectations.
Get a good night’s sleep – Set yourself up for success by feeling refreshed and ready to go.
Fuel up – Have breakfast and give yourself plenty of time to arrive feeling collected and focused.

Overcome First Week Challenges

The first week in a new finance role often brings a steep learning curve. You may encounter:

Information overload – New systems, procedures, and workflows will take time to absorb.
Team dynamics – Take notes on colleagues’ names and roles to help you build relationships.
Office politics – Stay professional, approachable, and avoid becoming involved in any early gossip or cliques.

Whether you’re joining a small finance team or a large shared service centre, it’s important to remain observant, open, and focused on making a positive impression.

Share Your Experience and Add Value

While it's natural to want to prove yourself quickly, balance this with taking time to fully understand your new environment. Consider:

Where your skills and experience can complement existing team members
How your past achievements can align with current business objectives
Asking questions when needed—this demonstrates engagement, not weakness

Build a Relationship with Your Line Manager

During your first week, prioritise a one-to-one meeting with your manager to:

Understand their expectations
Set short-term objectives
Clarify reporting lines and performance indicators

If you're stepping into a finance leadership role—such as a Financial Controller or Head of Finance—take time to understand the team dynamic so you can lead with confidence and clarity.

Make the Most of Your Probation Period

Most finance roles come with a probationary period, typically lasting 3 to 6 months. This benefits both you and your employer by ensuring the role and company are the right long-term fit.

To get the most from this time:

Seek regular feedback on your performance
Proactively address any areas for improvement
Use the time to build strong working relationships across departments
Raise concerns early, through the appropriate channels

Partner with Sharp Consultancy for Your Next Career Move

Starting a new role is a key moment in your career. At Sharp Consultancy, we support accountancy and finance professionals throughout their job transitions, from first interview to probation success and beyond.

We recruit for a wide range of finance positions—from entry-level finance jobs to senior finance leadership roles—across Yorkshire and the North of England.

Looking for your next career move in finance or accountancy? At Sharp Consultancy, our expertise lies in matching your potential with the perfect temporary, interim, or permanent position. With a well-established presence in Leeds and Sheffield, our seasoned team of consultants extends their services across Yorkshire and beyond. Don't wait for opportunity to knock, reach out to us TODAYand let's chart your career path together.

Starting a New Finance Role: How to Make the Right Impression from Day One