Finance Job Market Report
October 2026
Provided by CV Screen
What’s happening to demand?
OVERVIEW
The Finance jobs market has steadied. Vacancies eased in the spring but were broadly stable in Q3, and September brought a welcome rise. With more people actively looking for work, employers have more choice than they did earlier in the year, but experienced finance professionals are still in demand.
Demand for Finance Staff
Finance vacancies fell by around 12% between Q1 and Q3 2026, with most of the fall in the spring. Since then the market has steadied: Q3 was broadly unchanged on Q2, down just 1%, and September was up 9% on August.
Finance is a core function in every business, and the need for reporting, compliance and financial planning skills continues whatever the economic climate.
Availability of Finance Candidates
Average Job Application Rates (all roles)
The number of finance professionals actively looking for work rose slightly in Q3, up 1% on Q2. September saw a sharp rise, with Finance candidate activity reaching its highest level of the year.
With vacancies easing and more people on the market, employers have a wider choice of candidates than they did at the start of the year. That doesn’t mean hiring is easy: the most experienced and qualified candidates are still attracting several offers, and those who move quickly are the ones securing them.
Advice for Employers & Job Seekers
For employers: this is a good time to hire, with more finance candidates on the market than earlier in the year. To secure the best people, be clear on salary from the start, keep the interview process short, and be ready to make an offer quickly. Strong finance professionals rarely stay on the market for long.
For candidates: competition for roles has increased, so it pays to stand out. Tailor your CV to each role, highlight the systems and reporting experience employers are asking for, and be ready to move quickly when the right opportunity comes up. Working with a specialist recruiter gives you access to roles that are never advertised.
Outlook for Finance Jobs Market
Heading into the final quarter of 2026, the Finance jobs market is quieter than at the start of the year but shows clear signs of stabilising. Vacancies held steady through Q3, September brought a rise in new roles, and candidate activity reached its highest level of the year.
We expect demand for experienced finance professionals to remain steady, as businesses continue to need strong reporting, cost control and compliance skills. For employers, a larger pool of candidates makes this a good time to hire. For candidates, the market is more competitive, so preparation and a well-targeted CV will make the difference.
Next Steps?
CV Screen has been placing Finance and Accountancy professionals since 2000. Whether you need permanent, contract or interim staff, or you’re looking for your next role, our Finance team can help.
Employers: Register a Vacancy
Candidates: Register a CV
Call our Finance team on 0345 200 8170
For the wider picture, see our full Job Market Report, or find out more about our Finance Recruitment services.