By Rory Bysouth, published 5 January 2026
As a recruitment consultant in the UK, I’ve been closely monitoring how ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) regulations are reshaping the finance sector. In 2026, ESG will no longer be an optional consideration - it will be a critical factor in accounting, audit, and tax roles. Organisations across the UK are preparing for stricter ESG reporting requirements, and this shift is already influencing the demand for ESG-savvy finance professionals.
For accounting professionals, ESG will add a new dimension to traditional responsibilities. In 2026, accountants will be expected to integrate ESG metrics into financial reporting, quantify the impact of sustainability initiatives, and ensure compliance with governance standards. From a recruitment perspective, this is creating strong demand for candidates who can combine core accounting expertise with ESG knowledge. Professionals with prior experience in sustainability reporting, carbon accounting, or ESG frameworks will be highly sought after in the UK market.
Audit roles are also evolving. ESG reporting is increasingly subject to independent verification, meaning auditors will need to provide assurance on climate-related risks, social responsibility metrics, and governance practices. In 2026, I expect a surge in demand for auditors who can deliver compliant and verifiable ESG disclosures. Companies will prioritise candidates with both financial acumen and ESG literacy, making these hybrid roles more competitive and highly specialised.
Even tax professionals will see a shift. ESG-related incentives, carbon reporting obligations, and sustainable investment tax reliefs will become standard practice. Organisations will seek tax professionals who can navigate sustainability-focused tax compliance while maximising financial benefits. From a recruitment standpoint, professionals who combine tax expertise with ESG understanding will have a distinct advantage in the UK job market.
At Sheridan Maine, we are helping both companies and candidates prepare for this change. In 2026, ESG will push recruiters to prioritise professionals who can integrate compliance, sustainability, and traditional finance skills. It is thought that businesses that invest in ESG talent will benefit from better compliance and stakeholder trust, while candidates with ESG experience will find themselves in high demand with exciting career opportunities. For anyone working in accounting, audit, or tax, ESG appears not to be just a trend - it is shaping the future of finance recruitment in the UK.
