How to Negotiate a Pay Rise in Accountancy &

Why a Strong CV is Non-Negotiable for Finance Professionals in 2025

As a Senior Resourcer at Sharp Consultancy, I’ve reviewed thousands of CVs...From those just starting out to seasoned professionals with decades of experience. One thing remains consistent: in today’s competitive market, a strong CV isn’t optional—it’s essential. Today, South Yorkshire’s finance landscape is more dynamic than ever. With growing demand across sectors like manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and tech, accountancy and finance professionals are expected to bring more than just technical skills to the table. Your CV is your first opportunity to prove you’re up to the challenge. This blog marks the start of a three-part series focused on helping you craft a standout CV tailored to your career stage and goals. In this first post, we’ll cover general CV tips relevant to all finance professionals. In the next two instalments, we’ll dive deeper into: Transactional Finance CVs – how to highlight your experience in roles such as purchase ledger, sales ledger, and credit control. Part-Qualified Finance CVs – how to position yourself for progression while studying towards your qualifications. Stay tuned for practical advice and real-world insights to help your CV rise to the top of the pile. 🕒 First Impressions MatterRecruiters and hiring managers typically spend less than 30 seconds scanning a CV. That means your CV needs to immediately communicate relevance, professionalism, and potential. A clean layout, clear structure, and tailored content can make the difference between landing an interview or being passed over. 🔍 Specialist Skillsets Are in DemandFinance roles today go far beyond number-crunching. Employers want professionals who understand how finance supports wider business goals. Whether it’s streamlining reporting, implementing new systems, or driving cost efficiencies, your CV should highlight the tangible impact you’ve made. This is your chance to showcase your value-add—what makes you different from the next candidate. Use metrics where possible to quantify your achievements and make them memorable. 📍 Standing Out in YorkshireYorkshire is home to a diverse range of industries, from advanced manufacturing and engineering to professional services and digital tech. This diversity creates exciting opportunities—but also fierce competition. To stand out, your CV should reflect sector-specific experience and transferable skills. Whether you’ve worked in a fast-paced SME or a large corporate environment, highlight how your background aligns with the needs of the region’s employers. 📊 Business Acumen is a MustFinance professionals are increasingly expected to contribute to strategic decision-making. Roles in FP&A, commercial finance, and business partnering are on the rise, and employers want candidates who can offer insight—not just information. Your CV should reflect your ability to influence outcomes. Have you helped drive revenue growth? Supported investment decisions? Improved forecasting accuracy? These are the stories that resonate with hiring managers. 📈 Show a Clear Story of ProgressionRecruiters look for signs of growth and development. A strong CV doesn’t just list job titles—it explains the “why” behind each move. Did you step into a leadership role? Take on a new challenge? Gain exposure to a different sector? Even lateral moves can be powerful if they show a deliberate effort to build your skillset. Make sure your CV tells a cohesive story of your career journey. 🔑 Final ThoughtsIn Yorkshire’s fast-moving industries, a sharp, well-crafted CV is your key to unlocking new opportunities. It’s not just about listing experience—it’s about showing impact, adaptability, and commercial value from the very first glance. Whether you’re actively job hunting or just exploring your options, now is the time to invest in your CV. Visit Our Candidate Advice Pages HereLooking 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 TODAY and let's chart your career path together.

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Talking about money can feel uncomfortable, but if you believe you are due a salary increase, it’s important to approach the conversation with preparation, confidence, and professionalism...

In the finance and accountancy profession, where attention to detail and evidence-based decision-making are highly valued, the same principles apply when building your case for a pay rise.

Do Your Research

Before speaking with your manager, make sure you understand your market value. Look at salary surveys, benchmarking data, and industry insights to see what professionals in similar roles — such as Management Accountant, Financial Controller, or Finance Analyst — are currently earning in your region. At Sharp Consultancy, we publish an annual salary survey across Yorkshire, which provides a reliable guide to current trends.

Keep in mind that salary ranges are influenced by factors such as experience, qualifications (ACA, ACCA, CIMA), and location. For example, finance professionals in Leeds may command slightly different salaries than those in Sheffield or surrounding areas.

Consider the Wider Business Context

Your employer’s current financial position will also influence their ability to increase salaries. If the business has recently secured new contracts or is experiencing strong growth, the timing may be right. However, if your sector is under pressure, or the company has faced setbacks, there may be less flexibility. Aim to book a dedicated meeting to discuss your salary rather than raising it informally — this shows professionalism and ensures the focus is fully on your request.

Build a Strong Case

When negotiating, it’s not enough to simply say you deserve more — you need to demonstrate your value. Think about:

Added responsibilities – Have you taken on team management, project leadership, or extra reporting duties?
Measurable contributions – Can you highlight cost savings, efficiency improvements, or commercial insights you’ve delivered?
Professional development – Have you recently completed exams, gained new qualifications, or upskilled in systems like Excel, SAP, or Sage?
In-demand skills – Are you bringing expertise in areas such as business partnering, data analysis, or regulatory reporting that is scarce in the market?

Clear examples with measurable outcomes will strengthen your argument.

Be Clear on Your Expectations

Go into the discussion with a realistic figure in mind. Avoid inflating your expectations with the idea of negotiating down — if the number is too high, you risk shutting down the conversation before it starts. Instead, explain why your chosen figure is appropriate based on your performance, responsibilities, and market research.

It’s also worth highlighting how you plan to continue contributing to the business moving forward — for example, supporting growth plans, developing junior staff, or improving financial reporting.

If the Answer is “Not Yet”

Not every request will result in an immediate pay rise. If your manager says no, don’t issue ultimatums. Instead, ask what steps you can take to secure an increase in the future, and request a follow-up review in a few months. This keeps the conversation constructive and shows commitment to your role.

If, however, you feel your progression opportunities or salary expectations cannot be met, it may be the right time to explore new opportunities in the market.

Partner with Sharp Consultancy

At Sharp Consultancy, we specialise in the recruitment of temporary, interim, and permanent finance and accountancy professionals across Yorkshire and the North of England. With offices in Leeds and Sheffield, our highly experienced consultants have expert knowledge of market salaries and career progression opportunities, helping candidates negotiate their worth or find a new role where they feel valued.

📩 Contact us today for tailored career advice or to discuss your next move.

How to Negotiate a Pay Rise in Accountancy & Finance