Introduction
The 2025 Salary Guide for the UK Finance sector captures key trends and role-specific salary data, providing a clear benchmark for hiring and career decisions in today's market. In 2024, the sector saw strong demand for roles in Accounts Payable, Payroll Administration, and Credit Control, reflecting the critical need for efficient financial operations in a complex economic landscape. Technology continues to reshape the industry, with automation increasing efficiency and shifting the focus towards skills in financial software and data analysis.
To stay competitive, employers are enhancing compensation packages, offering performance-based incentives, and embracing hybrid work models that improve work-life balance and appeal to a broader range of talent.Â
Our guide is designed to support both employers and candidates in navigating this evolving landscape. Thank you for trusting us as your recruitment partner in Finance.
Julie Calisir
Managing Director, Finance
Your guide to salaries and trends
This guide is designed to offer valuable insights into the current landscape of Finance roles across the UK. Whether you’re an employer seeking to benchmark salaries, a candidate exploring career options, or simply interested in the latest industry trends, this guide has been crafted to keep you informed and prepared for what lies ahead.
In our guide, you’ll find:
- Key insights from our sentiment survey: Explore current trends, job satisfaction levels, and motivators for Finance professionals, gathered from our latest sentiment survey of candidates and clients.
- Salary tables by region: Discover salary insights across the UK for a range of Finance roles, allowing you to see how compensation varies and helping you make informed decisions wherever you’re based.
Key trends across all industriesÂ
- Rewarding careers: Professionals across sectors are increasingly recognised for the essential roles they play in their organisations. Our survey found that 25% of respondents are satisfied with their current salary, with many seeing room for growth in compensation and career development. For those aiming to progress, now is an ideal time to explore options in your field.
- High mobility: The job market remains dynamic, with 52% of respondents planning to change roles in the next year. This high mobility reflects a competitive landscape, presenting strong opportunities for those looking to advance their careers or explore new roles.
- Salary growth: Salary expectations remain a key driver when professionals consider new opportunities, with 39% of respondents aiming for an 11-20% pay increase and 35% expecting a 5-10% rise when changing roles. This underscores the importance of competitive compensation packages in attracting and retaining top talent.
- Work-life balance matters: Work-life balance is a top priority across all sectors, with 34% of respondents identifying it as their main motivator when seeking a new role. Companies offering flexibility and support around work-life balance are well-positioned to appeal to today’s professionals.
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Key insights for Finance
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1 in 3
Finance professionals report dissatisfaction with their current salary
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1 in 2
candidates expect a 5-10% increase in salary when moving roles
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3 in 5
rate their current work-life balance as “Poor” or “Very Poor”
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3 in 5
identify work-life balance as a top motivator when looking for a new role
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1 in 2
Finance candidates are actively planning to change roles within the next 12 months
Skills in demand
Key skills in Finance include analytical abilities, attention to detail, and technical proficiency in financial software. Professionals who can navigate complex financial data, ensure compliance, and offer insights are highly sought after in the industry.
70%
of financial institutions have increased hiring in compliance roles due to evolving regulations
50%
of finance companies have adopted permanent hybrid working models
29%
cite work-life balance as their primary motivator in a job search.
Looking ahead
As the Finance sector evolves with digital transformation and regulatory changes, opportunities continue to grow for professionals with a blend of technical and analytical skills.
Search is committed to connecting Finance professionals with roles that align with industry advancements and their personal career goals.
Explore all industry salaries for 2025