It’s tempting to think: “We’ll worry about January 2026 hiring when the new year gets closer.”
But in today’s market, that mindset could cost you the very people you most want to hire. The truth is simple: top finance and accountancy talent won’t wait until 2026. They’re already moving. And the firms that delay are losing out.
The Reality of Today’s Talent Market
In finance recruitment, the strongest candidates are:
- Already in conversations with employers.
- Serving three-month notice periods.
- Signing offers for January starts months in advance.
Permanent hiring delays don’t just mean “waiting a bit longer.” They mean watching your competitors secure the professionals who could have transformed your business.
Why the Best Talent Doesn’t Wait
Proactive candidates act early. High performers don’t sit on the market — they explore new roles when they’re ready, not when companies get around to hiring.
Top firms are already searching. Your competitors are running accountancy talent searches now, not later.
January starters need September action. With three-month notice periods, the calendar is already set: interview in September → offer in October → start in January.
The Cost of Waiting
Delaying your permanent hiring process has knock-on effects:
- Reduced choice: fewer qualified candidates still available.
- Reactive hiring: rushed interviews and sub-optimal offers.
- Performance lag: vacancies carried into Q1 2026 slow down growth and delivery.
In short: waiting until 2026 to hire isn’t a neutral decision. It’s a competitive disadvantage.
How to Secure Top Talent Now
- Start your accountancy talent search immediately. Build a shortlist of candidates open to a January start.
- Brief a recruiter early. Agencies with active networks can connect you to people already considering their next move.
- Think long-term. Hiring timelines have shifted — embracing forward planning gives you a competitive edge.
The best candidates aren’t waiting until 2026. And neither should you.
