We expect to see growth continue in key areas including Front Line Fraud, Case Management, Risk and Compliance. Traditional services will continue to develop with an increased investment in tech designed to further develop the digital customer experience across all products and services. Salaries will remain steady in 2024, with no significant uplifts expected.
Consolidation and Room for Expansion in the Irish Banking Market
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Over the past year, the Irish banking industry faced internal and external challenges, specifically the exit of two major institutions and a period of heightened uncertainty surrounding interest rates and inflationary pressures.
The Irish banking industry directly employs nearly 30,00 people with the majority of them concentrated in the top few (AIB, BOI etc) institutions. These banks comprise a large share of the market, combined they contribute between 40%-70% of the total banking revenue in Ireland.
โLooking ahead, the current market is poised for growth in 2024 as companies aim to fill market gaps left by the departure of KBC and Ulster Bank.
While inflation is expected to decrease to 2% throughout 2024, the recent phase of rising interest rates has enabled banks to increase profitability. Last year's interest rate hikes led to a heightened demand for restructuring and arrears talent, a trend that may extend into 2024.
Wealth management firms will need to strategically invest in talent to capitalise on their recent growth and sustain this positive trajectory throughout 2024.
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โIn-Demand Roles Offering Competitive Packages
โโThe expanding growth in the banking sector is creating an increased demand for specialised talent.
Ongoing developments in the regulatory landscape, particularly from a risk and compliance perspective, are continuously evolving and influencing the talent market.
Roles in high demand include:
Credit Risk (at all levels)
Pensions & Investment Administration
Corporate Lending
Regulatory Compliance
Financial Advisor/Planner
These roles are particularly sought after as the banking industry adapts to evolving regulatory frameworks and strategic priorities.
In-Demand Qualifications in the Banking Sector
Entering the banking sector typically requires specific qualifications as it's a highly structured industry. People with the right qualifications can look forward to a competitive salary and a comprehensive range of benefits.
Within Wealth Management and Banking, the expected qualifications include:
Accredited Product Adviser (APA)
Qualified Financial Adviser (QFA)
Regulatory functions focus on compliance, accounting, audit, and risk.
Compliance:
Licentiate of the Association of Compliance Officers in Ireland (LCOI) and Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS).
Associate Chartered Accountants (ACA), The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)/ Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA).
Audit and Risk:
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA).
Professional Risk Managers' International Association (PRMIA)
In Investments, the preferred qualification is:
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
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Top Benefits in the Banking Sector
Besides a rewarding career with a significant salary, in-demand working in the banking industry and expect additional benefits including:
Contributory Pension
Performance Related Bonuses
Individual or Family Healthcare Coverage
Life Assurance
Remote/Hybrid working options
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Ready to Expand Your Banking Team?
Reach out toCpl's Banking Recruitment Team for a consultation on how we can help you meet your talent needs for 2024 and beyond.