Organizations across industries are facing a shortage of finance and accounting professionals. Roles in auditing, tax, financial analysis, and reporting are staying open longer than in previous years, which can affect both day-to-day operations and long-term planning. Staffing solutions are one way companies are working to close this gap.

What’s Driving the Shortage?

Several factors are contributing to the reduced supply of finance and accounting talent:

• Demographics: Many experienced professionals are retiring, and fewer graduates are entering the field to replace them.
• Evolving Skill Sets: Employers now seek candidates who combine traditional accounting expertise with skills in analytics, technology, and compliance.
• Work Preferences: Professionals early in their careers often prioritize flexibility and career mobility, which can make long-term recruitment and retention more difficult.
• Regulatory Demands: Changes in tax policy, financial reporting standards, and compliance requirements have increased the need for specialized knowledge.

The American Institute of CPAs reports that about three-quarters of finance leaders find it difficult to fill open roles. This points to a structural shortage, not just a temporary hiring slowdown.

The Impact of Unfilled Roles

Open positions in finance and accounting can cause more than inconvenience. Organizations may face slower reporting cycles, higher compliance risks, and delays in strategic projects. Existing staff often absorb the extra workload, which can lead to stress and higher turnover. The longer positions remain vacant, the more these effects compound.

The Technology Factor

Automation and artificial intelligence are reshaping finance and accounting functions, from invoice processing to predictive analytics. While these tools can improve efficiency, they also change the skill sets employers need. Companies increasingly want professionals who can interpret data, oversee systems, and ensure compliance in a digital environment. The shortage is not just about filling traditional roles, but also about finding people who can bridge finance expertise with technical fluency.

Geographic Variations in Hiring

The shortage is not distributed evenly across the country. Metropolitan areas with large financial sectors face intense competition for talent, while smaller markets may struggle to attract professionals willing to relocate. Remote work has expanded candidate pools in some cases, but it has also increased competition, since companies can now hire from anywhere. Understanding these regional dynamics can help organizations adjust their recruiting strategies and compensation structures.

How Staffing Solutions Help

Specialized staffing partners can give organizations access to talent and hiring models that are not always available through traditional recruitment methods. Common benefits include:

• Access to Specialized Candidates: Staffing firms often maintain databases of professionals with experience in areas such as audit support or tax strategy.
• Flexible Arrangements: Temporary, contract, and project-based placements allow companies to address seasonal or project-specific needs without committing immediately to permanent hires.
• Lower Risk in Hiring: Candidates are typically pre-screened for technical proficiency and organizational fit, which shortens onboarding and reduces the likelihood of early attrition.
• Workforce Planning: Staffing partners can help identify emerging skills needs and provide insight into market compensation and hiring trends.

Building a Competitive Hiring Approach

Salary remains a major factor in recruiting finance and accounting professionals, but it is not the only one. Opportunities for professional development, clear career paths, and workplace flexibility are also important. Employers that address these priorities are more likely to retain staff once positions are filled.

Staffing firms can support these efforts by providing market data, benchmarking compensation, and advising on retention strategies that align with current expectations in the profession.

Partner with ATHENA Consulting

ATHENA Consulting works with organizations to meet their finance and accounting staffing needs. Whether your team requires interim help during reporting season or a permanent addition to support growth, we provide solutions that match qualified candidates to the right roles.

If you are facing finance and accounting staffing shortages, contact ATHENA Consulting to learn how we can help you strengthen your team.