Ireland's accountancy job market is experiencing a remarkable upswing, with contracting and temping offering an array of opportunities for professionals.
Ireland’s flourishing accountancy talent sector
Ireland's reputation as a premier European financial hub continues to attract a steady influx of multinational corporations and financial institutions, amplifying the demand for highly skilled accounting professionals. According to recent data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO), Ireland’s financial services sector accounted for 9.1% of Ireland's Gross Value Added (GVA) in the last fiscal year. With specialised accounting skills specifically in high demand, businesses are actively seeking professionals with niche expertise, in roles such as tax optimisation, regulatory compliance, or financial analysis.
A report by the Irish Accounting and Finance Association (IAFA) in 2023 highlights that the demand for certified accountants with specific sectoral knowledge has increased by 15% in the past year. Embracing contracting or temping allows accountants to cater to this demand, carving out a unique niche for themselves in the market. This growth in Ireland’s accountancy and financial sector has organisations looking to temporary and contract employees to meet talent demand.
The contracting economy in Ireland: reshaping the workforce landscape
The rise of the contracting economy has revolutionised how organisations view talent. Employers are pivoting not only towards project-based work arrangements but towards skill-based employment, as can be seen by the demand for people with specialised accounting skills.
This new way of viewing needs has seen the demand for temporary and contract accountancy professionals surge.
Research conducted by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in 2023 revealed that a staggering 78% of accounting firms in Ireland plan to increase their utilisation of contract workers and contractors in the foreseeable future.
Contracting and temporary opportunities for professionals
Workplace flexibility
The flexible nature of contract and temporary roles allows accountants to work on a wide range of projects in different industries and corporate settings. The ability to take on different challenges gives them valuable cross-industry experience and improves technical skills.
Future opportunities
Contracting and temping often serve as stepping stones to permanent roles within organisations. As accountants work on various projects, they build valuable connections with professionals and decision-makers across diverse sectors. These networking opportunities can lead to referrals, recommendations, and potential collaborations on future ventures. Establishing a strong personal brand as a contractor can elevate one's professional reputation and lead to a stream of rewarding opportunities.
Continual professional development
To remain at the forefront of the competitive accountancy job market in Ireland, continuous professional development is imperative. Reputable accounting organisations such as Chartered Accountants Ireland and ACCA offer training programs, workshops, and resources to ensure contractors stay abreast of evolving regulations and technological advancements.
The future of Ireland's accountancy sector
Ireland's accountancy contracting sector presents a vibrant landscape of opportunities for professionals seeking to advance in their careers. Discover our current opportunities on our website or get in touch with the Cpl Accountancy and Finance team today.
Sources
Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), 2023
Irish Accounting and Finance Association (IAFA), 2023