How to Succeed in Your First Finance Leadership

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.

Read article

Whether you’ve just been promoted to Finance Manager, taken on your first Financial Controller position, or stepped into a senior leadership role at a new organisation, transitioning into management is a big step in your accountancy career.

At Sharp Consultancy, we specialise in placing ambitious finance professionals into temporary, interim, and permanent leadership roles across Yorkshire and the North of England. Here’s our advice for making a strong impression as a newly appointed finance leader:

Start As You Mean to Go On

Scrabble board displaying the word "team success" formed with colorful letter tiles.

Your first few days in a leadership role set the tone for everything that follows. Whether you're managing a small transactional team or a wider finance department, show that you're confident in your abilities but also approachable and open to input.

People will form early opinions based on how you communicate and behave—so be present, clear, and authentic from the start.

Inspire with Purpose

Whether you're leading a budgeting and forecasting team, overseeing audit and compliance, or driving commercial finance strategy, it's important to clearly articulate your short and long-term goals. Show how each team member contributes to these objectives to create shared ownership and drive motivation.

Delegate and Empower

Finance leaders often struggle with letting go of tasks they’ve previously owned. But successful leaders in finance—particularly at the Finance Business Partner, Financial Controller, or FD level—understand the value of delegation.

Give your team ownership over key areas, whether it’s month-end processes, cash flow forecasting, or managing stakeholder reporting. Empowering others helps develop future leaders and strengthens team performance.

Lead by Example

Leadership in accountancy and finance requires technical credibility as well as personal integrity. Be consistent, reliable, and positive. Recognise strong performance—especially during periods of pressure like year-end—and celebrate wins as a team.

Bridge the Gap

It’s not unusual for a divide to form between senior leadership and operational staff. As a finance leader, you often sit at that intersection. Build trust upwards and downwards—position yourself as a collaborative partner to the board while remaining accessible and supportive to your team.

Allow Learning Through Mistakes

Financial leadership isn't about perfection—it's about problem-solving and resilience. Encourage your team to learn from challenges, whether it’s correcting reporting errors or improving a budgeting process. Offer support but avoid micromanaging. You'll build confidence, accountability, and stronger capabilities.

Foster Innovation and Improvement

Challenge the status quo—don’t default to "we’ve always done it this way." Whether you’re exploring ERP implementation, new BI tools, or improving internal controls, show that you value fresh thinking. Encourage your team to share ideas and give them the structure and autonomy to bring them to life.

Woman with a cheerful expression, holding a mug that says "World's Best Boss," celebrating her role as a supportive leader.

Take Informed Risks

Some of the best finance leaders are those who take calculated risks—launching a new cost-saving initiative, proposing a change in reporting structure, or supporting bold commercial decisions with data-led insights. Trust your experience and judgement while always assessing risk from a strategic perspective.

Make Credible, Confident Decisions

Finance leaders are relied upon for clarity. Don’t shy away from difficult decisions—especially when they involve people, budgets, or performance. Consider the facts, consult key stakeholders, and take action with confidence. Even a tough or unpopular decision can inspire respect if it’s well-informed and clearly communicated.

Need Help Building Your Finance Team or Advancing Your Leadership Career?

At Sharp Consultancy, our expert consultants specialise in the recruitment of finance professionals at all levels—from qualified accountants to FDs and CFOs. With offices in Leeds and Sheffield, we support businesses and individuals across Yorkshire and beyond.

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 TODAY and let's chart your career path together.