By Conor Walsh, published 7 September 2025
As a recruiter in the Practice team here at Sheridan Maine, I see every day how deeply the talent shortage is affecting audit, accounting and tax professionals across. Firms are struggling to attract and retain qualified people, and those who remain are carrying increasingly heavy workloads. This leads to burnout, declining morale and, ultimately, pressure on service quality. Because we specialise in this space, Sheridan Maine is able to step in quickly, identify the right talent, and ease the strain on overstretched teams giving our clients the stability and breathing room they desperately need.
I also hear consistently from partners and managers about how challenging it is to keep pace with rapid technological change. AI, automation and data-driven systems are transforming expectations, yet not all firms are equipped with the expertise or capacity to implement these tools effectively. Training existing staff while managing client deadlines creates a real tension. At Sheridan Maine, we understand these evolving skill requirements, and we focus on sourcing candidates who are not only technically strong but also digitally fluent, people who can adapt, innovate and help firms modernise without disruption.
Regulatory complexity adds another layer of pressure. Whether it’s new audit standards, shifts in tax legislation or the rise of ESG reporting, practices are spending increasing amounts of time navigating compliance changes. The cost of getting it wrong is high, and many firms simply don’t have the bandwidth to stay ahead. This is where Sheridan Maine brings real value: we help firms secure specialists with up-to-date knowledge and sector experience, reducing risk and ensuring they remain compliant, competitive and confident in their output.
Finally, the profession itself is evolving. With routine tasks increasingly automated, firms need people who can deliver strategic insight, commercial advice and strong client communication. The demand for well-rounded talent has never been higher. As a recruiter in the Practice team at Sheridan Maine, my role is to connect firms with individuals who embody that modern skill set—professionals who can navigate change, embrace new expectations and contribute meaningfully to long-term growth. In a time of immense pressure and transformation across the profession, the right recruitment partner truly makes all the difference.
