Trends in 2023 accounting roles

  • 20-03-23

The finance and accounting industry is expected to experience significant changes in 2023. The talent crunch continues, with accounting recruiters observing a significant shortage of skilled professionals available in the accounting jobs market. As a result, SMEs in particular need to be more competitive in attracting and retaining top talent. From our own market research, when considering a new role, we’ve found that the majority of accounting professionals are seeking hybrid work opportunities, flexible schedules, and most importantly, career development options. Therefore, companies that can offer these benefits are more likely to attract and retain top talent.

With the shortage of candidates currently seeking new roles, it is important for hiring managers to be aware of what the top accounting jobs are in 2023 so that they can prepare to fill vacancies accordingly.

Here at Richard Lloyd, we believe that the most sought-after accounting roles in 2023 will be:

Financial Controller

A Financial Controller is a senior-level accounting professional who is typically responsible for managing the company's finances. This will vary depending on the size of the business. I.e. if the company is an SME with no CFO or Finance Director, the Financial Controller will often be the lead finance person. They normally supervise a small team in a hands-on capacity to ensure that the accounts are all reconciled and financial reports are accurate and compliant with regulations. They will manage the taxation obligations, and the banking relationship and they often have broader management responsibilities. In an SME, they will develop financial strategies alongside the MD or CEO and will seek to provide insight into financial performance to help the company achieve its growth plans. They typically require a minimum of a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, with a CPA or CA certification preferred and a minimum of 10 years of accounting experience.

Finance Manager

A Finance Manager can either report to a Financial Controller or can be the lead finance role within a small organisation. In smaller companies, they will typically be standalone or will manage a small team. Responsibilities often include managing the month-end process, developing budgets, managing the banking relationships and often working with an external chartered firm on taxation matters. Depending on business requirements they will offer strategic financial guidance and help the organisation achieve its financial objectives through analysis and managing the budgeting process. Finance Managers will often have a CPA or CA qualification and a minimum of 8 years of experience.

Financial Accountant

A Financial Accountant plays a significant role in working through the month-end accounting process. They will focus a great deal on monthly reporting, and reconciling accounts, have involvement in the year-end accounting process and also will have duties surrounding taxation and compliance. Commonly, Financial Accountants have a degree and will be studying towards or have gained an Accounting qualification such as CPA, CA, ACCA or CIMA.

​Given the current recruitment climate, you’re not alone if you're struggling with hiring any of these critical positions, but we can assure you that there are high-quality candidates out there who will meet your expectations and requirements. You just need to know where to look.

Use our 140+ years of combined recruitment experience and networks to help connect you with the right accounting talent for any role in your finance team, including Financial Controller, Finance Manager, and Financial Accountant.

If you're looking to hire for accounting jobs in Sydney, contact us at Richard Lloyd Recruitment and speak to one of our experts.