Bram Naus N8 Qb1 Z Ak K88 Unsplash

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. ​

Read article
Professional Practice

Professional Practice

Back to Disciplines

Professional Practice Recruitment: Advance Your Career with Sharp Consultancy

At Sharp Consultancy, we have been the leading authority in professional practice recruitment in Yorkshire and the North Midlands for over 30 years. Our dedication to excellence and extensive industry experience make us the top choice for high-level roles in professional practice, including Senior Partners, Directors, and Managers.

Why Choose Sharp Consultancy?

  • Specialised Expertise: Our experienced consultants focus exclusively on professional practice recruitment, providing you with unmatched insights and valuable industry connections.

  • Proven Experience: With three decades of expertise in this field, we have a thorough understanding of the unique demands and trends within professional practice.

  • Tailored Job Matching: We prioritise aligning your career aspirations with the right opportunities, ensuring a perfect fit for both you and your future employer.

Explore Professional Practice Career Opportunities

As a professional in practice, you can discover an array of exciting career opportunities, including:

  • Semi Senior/Senior Accountant

  • Tax (from Junior to Director positions)

  • Audit (from Junior to Director positions)

  • Corporate Recovery (from Junior to Director positions)

  • Business Services & General Practice (from Junior to Director positions)

Benefits of Partnering with Sharp Consultancy

  • Expert Guidance: Our dedicated team assists you in achieving your long-term career objectives in professional practice.

  • Customised Job Matches: We understand the significance of discovering a workplace that allows you the freedom to thrive. which is why we focus on matching you with roles that align with your skills and aspirations.

  • Extensive Network: With robust relationships across the North, we are uniquely positioned to connect you with opportunities that fit your career goals.

Join Our Network

Ready to take the next step in your finance career? Submit your CV today to express your interest. Our commitment to excellence ensures you’ll receive the support and opportunities needed to thrive in your Transactional Finance career.

Submit CV

  • Quote

    ​I have no hesitation in recommending Lee to anyone in my network. In particular, he has kept in touch with me over the last 5/6 years being a source of impartial advise when needed.

    Adam
    Adam
  • Quote

    ​Lee is the consummate professional and very personable. He was helpful and understanding throughout the whole process and I appreciated his openness and integrity which gave great confidence in every conversation.

    Daniel
    Daniel
  • Quote

    ​Lee has been absolutely fantastic throughout the hiring process. I have a somewhat unusual background for a role in M&A, but he immediately picked up on my tremendous drive to do all the things necessary for a role. The depth of experience and love of the job enables Lee to know what firms want / need from candidates beyond the standard cookie-cutter approach which 99% of headhunters use. From a personal perspective, Lee has spent a lot of time getting to know me and helping me think about how to present myself at interview. Absolutely top-notch.

    Investment Banker, Relocating from London
    Investment Banker, Relocating from London
  • Quote

    Beyond just filling positions, Sharp Consultancy helped us ensure that our hiring process was efficient, cost-effective, and aligned with our long-term goals. They truly became a trusted extension of our HR team, and their support allowed us to focus on what we do best—growing our business.

    Donna Hardman - Managing Director
    Donna Hardman - Managing Director

Speak with a specialist today.

Charlie Marper

Charlie Marper

Senior Business Manager

View