The finance market in Northern Ireland has continued to evolve throughout 2025. While we’ve moved beyond the sharp salary increases seen post-pandemic, competition for experienced finance professionals remains high. Employers are having to think more creatively about how they attract and retain talent, and candidates are becoming increasingly selective about what really matters to them in a role.
At Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment, we speak with both employers and candidates across Northern Ireland every day, giving us a real-time view of what’s happening in the market.
Current Salary Snapshot
Based on current market insights and recent placements, here’s a guide to typical salary ranges across Northern Ireland’s finance sector in 2025:
| Accounts Assistant / Part-Qualified | £28,000 – £35,000 |
| Newly Qualified Accountant | £38,000 – £45,000 |
| Management / Senior Accountant | £45,000 – £55,000 |
| Finance Manager / Financial Controller | £55,000 – £75,000 |
| Head of Finance / CFO | £80,000 – £110,000+ |
Key Trends Shaping the NI Finance Market
Total Reward Packages Are Growing in Importance
While base pay levels have stabilised, employers are now differentiating themselves through complete reward packages, flexible and hybrid work options, healthcare, enhanced annual leave, and professional development support. For many candidates, these benefits are just as important as salary when considering a new opportunity.
Skills Premiums for Tech-Enabled Finance Professionals
Employers in NI are increasingly seeking finance professionals with data analytics, ERP, and automation experience. The ability to interpret and communicate data-driven insights has become a key differentiator. Those who can blend technical capability with commercial acumen are commanding a clear salary premium.
Hybrid and Flexible Working Are Here to Stay
Hybrid work remains a top priority. Most employers now offer 2–3 days per week in the office, and candidates are factoring flexibility heavily into their job decisions. Businesses offering remote-friendly policies are widening their talent pool and improving retention.
Sector-Specific Hotspots
Shared Services & SSCs: Continued investment from multinationals in Belfast and the North West.
Manufacturing & Engineering: Strong demand for cost-focused and commercial finance roles.
Public & Not-for-Profit: Increased hiring for compliance, audit and grant-reporting specialists.
Technology: Growing appetite for finance professionals with automation and systems experience.
What This Means for Candidates
Know Your Worth: Understand where your skills fit within current salary bands before negotiating or changing jobs.
Look Beyond the Base: Total package, flexibility, and professional growth matter more than ever.
Upskill Strategically: Focus on high-value areas like FP&A, automation, or business partnering to move your career forward.
What This Means for Employers
Benchmark Regularly: Keep your salary ranges aligned with market expectations to attract and retain top performers.
Sell the Full Package: Candidates now expect flexibility, learning opportunities, and wellbeing support, not just pay.
Communicate Your EVP: Your Employer Value Proposition (culture, purpose, flexibility) should come through clearly in every stage of recruitment.
The Outlook for the Rest of 2025
The Northern Ireland accountancy & finance recruitment market remains candidate-driven, particularly for qualified and senior accountants. Employers who can move quickly, offer flexibility, and demonstrate a clear value proposition will continue to secure the best people.
At Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment, we work closely with clients and candidates across Northern Ireland to provide up-to-date market insights, salary benchmarking, and trusted recruitment advice. Whether you’re hiring your next finance professional or exploring your next career move, we’d be delighted to help you navigate the Northern Ireland market with confidence.
Get in touch
If you’d like to discuss this topic or learn more about how we can help, contact Darrach Teague at darrach@mqrecruitment.ie or call 07941576882
