Navigating the Evolving Finance Talent Landscape

As organisations continue to navigate economic uncertainties and shifting workplace dynamics, attracting and retaining top tier finance professionals has never been more critical.

Below, we explore four key challenges CFOs and finance leaders must address, along with broader considerations for navigating the evolving talent landscape.

The Return to Office Debate

Hybrid work has become a mainstay of the post pandemic era, yet many organisations are reconsidering the balance between flexibility and in-office collaboration. As businesses face challenges in productivity, mentorship and cultural alignment, the pendulum is swinging back toward increased office attendance.

While flexible work arrangements remain a priority for employees, companies are increasingly mandating in office days to foster efficiency, improve mentorship for junior staff, and accelerate decision making processes. Many larger organisations are employing hybrid models with strategies including:

Performance Linked Office Attendance: tying in-office participation to metrics and incentives, encouraging the value of in person collaborations

Enhanced work environments: Creating inviting, modern office spaces and flexible schedules

Support for life commitments: Subsidised childcare and commuter benefits to ease the transition

However, employee resistance to the in-office model persists, particularly amongst experienced professionals who prioritise flexibility over career progression. Striking the right balance between flexibility and engagement will be a defining challenge for finance leaders in the year ahead.

Economic Uncertainty and Hiring Trends

The economic outlook for 2025 remains uncertain, with factors such as interest rate movements, tighter capital markets, and geopolitical tensions influencing business confidence and shaping hiring trends. Many organisations are cautiously prioritising internal restructuring over external hiring.

This more conservative approach has led to:

Increased competition for fewer roles: driving candidates to prioritise job security and long-term career prospects

High demand for specialised finance skills: such as

• Data analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) expertise
• Cybersecurity knowledge
• Risk management capabilities

While some sectors such as Healthcare and Technology continue to grow, others, such as Retail and Manufacturing face tighter budgets constraints and softer demand. Finance leaders must position their organisations to attract these sought after specialists to remain competitive.

Employer-Employee Dynamics: Who Holds the Power?

Although hiring markets may appear to favour employers, the demand for top finance talent keeps the reality more nuanced. While multiple offers and inflated salaries are less common, demand for the best skilled professionals means they continue to command competitive packages. Employee retention remains a challenge, particularly for businesses that overpromised roles and benefits during the hiring boom of 2021-2022.

To stay competitive, organisations must focus on:

Compelling Employee Value Propositions (EVP): Clearly articulated career pathways and benefits packages

Engagement Initiatives: Programs such as career coaching, mentorship programs, and wellbeing support to foster loyalty and differentiation.

These efforts are crucial for retaining high-performing professionals in an environment where loyalty is increasingly tied to meaningful career development opportunities.

Technology and AI: Transforming Finance Roles

AI continues to reshape the finance function, routine tasks while amplifying the demand for professionals with analytical and strategic expertise. Key areas where AI is driving transformation include:

• Streamlining financial forecasting and operational processes
• Enhancing data driven decision making
• Supporting more precise hiring and team optimisation

However, the rise of AI also highlights the importance of soft skills such as leadership, storytelling, and stakeholder management. These capabilities remain irreplaceable by technology and resistant to automation.

CFOs must invest in upskilling their teams to ensure they are equipped to navigate the demands of an AI-enhanced future.

The Road Ahead: Considerations for CFOs in 2025

As the finance talent landscape continues to evolve throughout 2025, CFOs and finance leaders must adopt strategic, forward-thinking approaches to talent management. Considerations for success include:

Balancing Flexibility and Productivity: Designing hybrid work models that meets both business needs and employee expectations

Navigating Economic Uncertainty: Implementing agile workforce strategies to adapt to changing market conditions

Investing in Technology: Leveraging AI and automation to enhance efficiency while equipping teams with the skills to thrive alongside innovation

Prioritising Employee Engagement: Building pathways for progression and cultivating a workplace culture that retains top performers

By aligning talent strategies with evolving economic and technological advancements, CFO’s can ensure their organisations’ resilience and success in the dynamic year to come.

Author:

Harley Thomas, Partner | Finance & Accounting | Sharp & Carter

Your trusted partners in finance recruitment.

We specialise in connecting CFOs with exceptional finance talent across Australia. Since 2009 our Finance and Accounting team have been committed to building long-term partnerships by leveraging deep industry expertise and a people-first approach.

We excel at recruiting across all levels — from CFOs to Assistant Accountants, Bookkeepers, and Accounts Receivable professionals.

We do more than match skills to roles. What sets us apart is our dedication to understanding your goals, culture, and team dynamics. This ensures that we connect you with individuals who align with your vision and are passionate about making a meaningful impact. As one of Australia’s most experienced recruitment agencies, we prioritise open communication, shared successes, and relationships that stand the test of time.

www.SharpandCarter.com.au