By Caroline Furness, published 12 April 2026
Hybrid working has become an increasingly important factor in the UK accounting and finance job market. For employers recruiting across accounting, finance, audit and tax, offering the right balance of flexibility, development and reward can make a significant difference when attracting and retaining skilled professionals.
According to our survey, the factors influencing hiring and retention decisions include:
- Salary, benefits & total compensation – 69%
- Hybrid working and remote work flexibility – 64%
- Talent development & upskilling – 57%
- Technological advancements – 52%
- Regulatory & compliance requirements – 52%
- Macroeconomic conditions – 46%
- Employee wellbeing & culture – 45%
Other influencing factors include competition from other sectors (43%), internal transformation initiatives (39%), and DEI and employer branding (30%).
Why Hybrid Working Matters
The continued demand for hybrid working reflects how expectations around the workplace have changed. For many accounting and finance professionals, the ability to combine office-based collaboration with the flexibility of working remotely has become an important consideration when assessing a new opportunity.
For employers, hybrid working can also broaden access to talent by allowing organisations to recruit professionals who may not be able or willing to work in the office five days a week.
However, offering hybrid working alone is unlikely to be enough to attract and retain the best talent. Candidates are increasingly considering the complete employment package, including salary, benefits, career development, company culture and opportunities to build their skills.
Balancing Flexibility with Development
Employers need to consider how hybrid working affects communication, collaboration and professional development. This can be particularly important for junior and newly qualified professionals who benefit from learning from more experienced colleagues.
Organisations that combine flexible and hybrid working with structured training, mentoring and clear career progression can create an environment where employees have both the flexibility they value and the support they need to develop.
Technology also plays an important role. Digital collaboration tools, cloud-based accounting systems and technology-enabled learning can help teams remain connected and productive, regardless of where they are working.
The Future of Hybrid Working in Accounting & Finance
Our findings highlight the importance of taking an integrated approach to talent strategy. Hybrid working, competitive remuneration and meaningful development opportunities all play a role in attracting and retaining accounting and finance professionals.
We believe organisations that successfully combine reward, flexibility, career development and capability building will be best positioned to secure the skilled professionals they need in 2026 and beyond.
For candidates, understanding what employers are offering around hybrid working can also help when evaluating your next career move. The right working arrangement will depend on the individual, the role and the culture of the organisation.
At Sheridan Maine, we understand the changing expectations of both employers and candidates across accountancy, finance, audit and tax. We work with organisations to help them attract and retain skilled professionals while supporting candidates with informed advice throughout their careers.
Looking to recruit accounting and finance professionals, or considering your next career move? Get in touch with Sheridan Maine.
