Recent data gathered by ACCA for their Global Talent Trends Survey 2024 suggests that Accountants are in demand, open to job opportunities and willing to move roles to further their careers.

In fact, almost half all the 10,000 respondents across 157 countries indicated they expect to their next role within 12 months, and 68% said they’re hoping to move role within the next 2 years.

Looking closer to home, 41% of UK respondents reported they want to move role in the next 12 months, with 54% expecting their next role to be external to their organisation.

And this sentiment among Accountancy professionals is undoubtedly presenting a talent retention challenge for employers. However, taking a closer look at the data can help shed some light on what businesses can do for, and offer to, their staff to influence their decision to stay put.

Which is exactly what we’ve done:

Offer career progression opportunities – 36% reported they aren’t satisfied with the career opportunities they receive from their current employer, so having clearly defined progression paths and promoting greater internal mobility is essential.

Improve learning and development – 48% that they’re not developing the skills they need for the future workplace in their current organisation and are prepared to move role in order to do so.

Prioritise mental health – Although the UK scores favourably compared to the other regions in the survey, 38% still want more support managing their mental health from their employer. In fact, almost one-third have considered resigning due to wellbeing issues, so this should be high up on business’ agendas.

Foster a diverse and inclusive culture – With 64% indicating a strong diversity and inclusivity culture would be a key factor in deciding to work for an employer, making DEI a priority is not only good for your retention, but your talent attraction too.

Continue with hybrid working – The results suggest that 70% say that hybrid working is their preferred arrangement and 68% feel more productive when working remotely. Striking the right balance for your teams is key, however, with 49% suggesting that working remotely makes collaboration harder for them.

Keep an eye on the effects of wage pressures – Despite 48% of respondents saying they’re happy with their current salary, half said they will ask for a pay rise in the next 12 months. Some 49% suggested they believe the best way to improve their salary is to leave their current organisation for pastures new.