Harper May | Knowledge Hub | UK Accounting Recruitment Agency

UK accountants are leading globally in AI adoption, with 90% expecting a major impact on their profession. More UK firms have AI strategies and tools in place, driving faster transformation, improved efficiency, and competitive advantage in the tax sector.

Crisis fluency is emerging as a vital CFO skill. Beyond resilience, today’s finance leaders must anticipate disruption, lead under pressure, and guide cross-functional teams through uncertainty — making this capability essential for strategic success in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

Accountancy hiring in commerce and industry has surged by 17% in 2025 — the strongest rebound in over a decade. Regional hotspots and demand for ESG, AI, and hybrid-ready talent are driving growth, while financial services vacancies are set to fall.

The UK’s new Industrial Strategy outlines reforms to boost professional services, including accountancy. Key changes focus on AI adoption, audit reform, sustainability reporting, skills development, and regional growth hubs—aiming to make the UK the world’s most trusted advisory sector by 2035.

Agentic AI is set to transform tax workflows by autonomously managing complex tasks such as compliance, audit preparation, research, and planning. As it evolves, it will reshape how tax professionals work, enabling greater efficiency, insight, and strategic contribution.

Finance professionals across the UK are being recognised for their leadership, advocacy, and impact — from global finance roles to grassroots tax reform. These honours celebrate how accountancy continues to shape strategy, support communities, and drive change across the country.