By Caroline Furness, published 15 February 2026
In 2025, UK employers in accounting, audit, and tax reported that recruitment agencies remained the most effective hiring channel, with 61% of hiring managers citing their success. Close behind were employee referrals (47%) and company careers portals (44%), highlighting the enduring value of personal networks and direct engagement. LinkedIn also played an increasingly important role, used by 40% of employers to reach passive candidates.
The data reflects a market dominated by passive talent, particularly in specialist roles. For example, finance transformation professionals within professional services were often recruited via specialist agencies or targeted LinkedIn outreach, requiring time and careful strategy. Meanwhile, retail and pharmaceutical organisations successfully tapped employee referral programs to attract mid-level analysts with ERP and data expertise.
Other channels such as job boards (34%), internal HR initiatives (29%), specialist finance consultancies (25%), and university graduate programs (22%) played supporting roles, while printed publications (6%) had minimal impact.
Looking ahead to 2026, firms that invest in proactive sourcing strategies, leveraging both agency partnerships and targeted direct outreach, will be best positioned to access scarce talent pools and secure the professionals critical to their growth.
At Sheridan Maine, we combine industry insight with targeted recruitment strategies to help clients reach top accounting and finance talent, whether through agencies, referrals, or direct engagement.
