Knowledge Hub – Finance Recruitment & Accountancy Insights

UK M&A activity slowed in Q1 2025 amid economic uncertainty and tax changes, with many deals delayed until late 2025. PE firms remain eager to invest but cautious, prioritising strong businesses. Lower interest rates could stimulate renewed deal flow later this year.

Building a high-impact finance team is key to supporting business growth. This article explores how businesses can structure finance functions for scalability, align them with strategy, hire for capability, and foster leadership — enabling finance to drive value across the organisation.

Accountants report cautious optimism for the UK economy. While trade deals and small business resilience offer hope, concerns remain over inflation, taxation, skills shortages, and US tariffs. Businesses are prioritising cost control and risk management, with accountants playing a crucial advisory role.

The accounting profession is shifting as younger talent seeks purpose, flexibility and inclusive culture. This article explores how firms can adapt career paths, leadership and values to attract and retain the next generation in a rapidly evolving professional landscape.

A growing number of mid-tier accountancy firms are offering ESG services as demand rises from clients navigating regulations, risk, and opportunity. Despite skills shortages and evolving standards, ESG is becoming a key growth area across the accounting profession.

61% of UK Gen Z accountants aim to be entrepreneurs, says ACCA. The 2025 survey also highlights rising AI readiness, ongoing mental health concerns, strong pay satisfaction, and growing interest in sustainability among UK finance professionals.