Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment – Accountancy & Senior Finance Recruitment Specialists, Ireland

Client Case Study: Building a Finance Team for Global Aviation Leasing MNC

Posted on 9 March 202626 March 2026 by Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment

How Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment Enabled Scalable, High-Quality Hiring

Background

Shannon Engine Support, a global leader in aviation leasing based in Shannon, Co. Clare, operates across multiple international jurisdictions with a strong focus on governance, technical excellence, and long-term career development.

As the business scaled, its finance function became central to supporting growth, internal mobility, and operational continuity. Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment partnered closely with the organisation building on a trusted relationship spanning over 15 years with senior HR and finance leadership to deliver both permanent and contract finance hires, including newly created roles and backfills driven by internal promotions.

Challenge

Rapid growth created sustained demand for high-calibre accountancy & senior finance professionals across multiple roles. Each hire was business-critical, with:

●	High technical and governance standards

●	Strong emphasis on cultural alignment and long-term fit

●	Limited tolerance for delays or misaligned candidates

●	A competitive, niche talent market

The client required consistently relevant shortlists of interview-ready candidates, without the inefficiencies of volume-led recruitment.

Solution

Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment delivered a consultative, relationship-led approach focused on quality, speed, and alignment:

●	Deep role scoping with hiring managers to define technical, cultural, and team requirements

●	Market-led positioning, advising on salary benchmarks, talent availability, and competitiveness

●	Targeted multi-channel sourcing, combining headhunting, referrals, database search, and trusted networks

●	Access to passive talent, leveraging long-standing relationships to engage high-quality candidates

●	Rigorous screening, ensuring only interview-ready, well-aligned profiles were presented

●	Agile process management, with tight feedback loops to maintain momentum in a fast-moving market

Outcome

The partnership delivered consistent, high-impact results, supporting both immediate hiring needs and long-term talent strategy:

●	100% of submitted candidates progressed to interview stage

●	Average fill rate 2 weeks (offers accepted)

●	100% fill rate across all roles (18/18 Roles 2023 – 2026)

●	Strong retention and internal progression across hires

●	Ongoing exclusive partnership built on trust and delivery

“Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment deliver every time, professional, responsive, and highly trusted. The team truly understands our business, and the quality of candidates reflects that. Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment is an extension of our team, there’s no one else I would trust with these hires.” – Caroline O’Brien, Chief People Officer

Partner With Us

If you need specialist finance talent in a competitive market—without wasted time or misaligned CVs—Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment delivers.

Recruitment built on trust, insight, and results.

The Most In-Demand Finance Jobs in Ireland for 2026 – and What to Expect

Posted on 5 March 202612 March 2026 by Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment

As we step into 2026, finance jobs in Ireland are being reshaped by economic shifts, evolving skillsets, and regional dynamics. While market conditions remain competitive, fresh opportunities are emerging, from part-qualified roles to senior advisory positions. Whether you’re hiring into your finance team or considering your next move as an accountant, understanding what’s driving Irish market trends is critical.

We draw on the latest salary data, industry reports, and our real-time insight from working with employers and professionals across the country to explore which finance jobs are most in demand, where the opportunities lie, and what both clients and candidates can expect in the year ahead.

Market Overview. What Changed in 2025?

2025 was marked by cautious optimism, and as we move into the New Year this mood continues. According to recent research by Deloitte, over 70% of Irish CFOs expect their company’s revenue to increase in 2026, with nearly a third feeling more confident about their organisation’s financial future than just three months ago.

In the Republic of Ireland, salary levels remained competitive, particularly in areas like FP&A, payroll, and regulatory reporting. Notably, tech skills, ESG exposure, and systems experience (like SAP S/4HANA) became increasingly valuable as finance teams adapted to automation and digital transformation.

Meanwhile, Northern Ireland’s financial services sector outpaced other UK regions in growth, with demand for professionals skilled in ESG/CSRD reporting and ERP system migration remaining strong, particularly in Belfast.

The Most In-Demand Finance Jobs for 2026

Based on our recruitment activity and the latest salary benchmarks, here are the finance jobs seeing the most traction right now.

Part-Qualified and Support Roles
These continue to be a cornerstone of finance hiring in 2026. Employers value candidates with strong Excel, system migration, and automation experience. Part-qualified professionals with exposure to Power BI and SQL are especially in demand as finance teams shift toward a more analytical function.

2.	FP&A and Commercial Finance Professionals who can translate numbers into strategic insight are in high demand. FP&A roles have seen a notable salary uplift, especially in sectors like manufacturing, aviation, and IT. Strong forecasting, budgeting, and business partnering skills are essential.

Audit and Advisory
Audit professionals with Big 4 or mid-tier backgrounds are actively being recruited into both practice and industry roles. Internal audit, transaction services, and risk assurance continue to offer strong progression paths, especially for those looking to step into more commercial environments.

4.	Payroll and Shared Services Leaders With multinational firms expanding operations across Ireland, payroll managers with international scope and SOX compliance experience are highly sought after. Those who can lead transformation or automation projects are commanding premium salaries.

5.	Financial Controllers and Finance Managers These remain key strategic hires for growth-stage companies and larger corporates alike. There’s particularly strong demand for commercially focused FCs with team leadership and systems change experience.

Regional Trends Across Ireland and Northern Ireland

The finance jobs market across Ireland is not uniform with notable regional variations shaping opportunities and salaries.

Dublin remains the salary frontrunner, offering rates that are 7–10% higher than elsewhere in the country. However, there is also strong hiring activity beyond the capital, particularly in Limerick, Galway, and Cork, where demand is rising for finance professionals in the manufacturing and pharmaceutical sectors.

Northern Ireland, meanwhile, continues to experience rapid growth in financial services, but a salary gap persists, with roles in Ireland commanding up to 25% more. That said, the presence of multinational employers in Belfast is helping to narrow this divide, especially for those with ESG and regulatory reporting expertise.

For candidates willing to relocate or commute cross-border, finance jobs in areas such as payroll, financial reporting, and FP&A offer compelling career opportunities across both jurisdictions.

Download the 2026 Salary Guide

Want to explore the full salary ranges for accountant jobs and senior finance roles across Ireland and Northern Ireland?

Download the full guide here for detailed salary tables, benefits trends, and regional comparisons.

What Employers and Candidates Should Focus on in 2026

For Employers:

●	Refine your briefs: Vague or overly complex job specs are still costing teams great candidates. A concise, realistic role brief will attract better talent faster.

●	Speed up processes: The best candidates often receive multiple offers. Shortlisting and feedback timelines matter more than ever.

●	Invest in retention: Employers offering mentoring, hybrid flexibility, and clear progression plans are winning the war for talent.

●	Embrace tech skills: Prioritise candidates with data literacy and ERP experience—even in traditional roles like AP/AR or payroll.

For Candidates:

●	Build your commercial acumen: Whether you’re newly qualified or experienced, the ability to link financial data to business impact is key to standing out.

●	Get interview ready: With companies placing more weight on cultural fit, prepare for interviews that go beyond technical ability.

●	Understand your value: Use our salary guide to benchmark your expectations and confidently negotiate offers.

●	Stay open to sector shifts: Many roles in aviation, tech, and manufacturing now favour candidates from diverse financial backgrounds.

Let’s Talk About Your 2026 Finance Hiring or Career Plans

Whether you’re building out a finance team or preparing for your next move as an accountant, we’re here to help. At Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment, we offer consultative support grounded in real market insight and senior-level expertise.

Why ESG and CSRD Expertise Is Essential for Today’s Finance Teams

Posted on 2 March 202612 March 2026 by Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment

Organisations and finance leaders are facing a new wave of challenges and opportunities closely linked to their ability to align operations with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. A key driver of this shift is the upcoming CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) reporting requirements in Ireland.

These regulations, which mandate comprehensive and standardised sustainability reporting, are changing how companies approach their financial reporting and governance structures. As a result, finance professionals with a strong understanding of ESG and CSRD are becoming increasingly sought after, as they play a critical role in ensuring compliance and driving strategic growth. However attracting and retaining these skills is not always straightforward.

Why Finance Leaders Need to Prioritise ESG and CSRD

For businesses in Ireland, CSRD reporting requirements are now an inescapable reality. The regulations, which will impact over 50,000 companies across Europe, requires organisations to:

●	Disclose detailed information on how their activities impact the environment, society, and governance, including the risks and opportunities related to sustainability.

●	Include ESG data in their traditional financial reporting, giving a holistic view of the organisation’s performance.

●	Provide assurance on sustainability reports via external verification, similar to that applied to financial audits.

●	Bring reporting in line with EU-wide reporting standards allowing for consistency and comparability across companies.

●	Address how climate-related risks affect their business model and operations, and include governance structures for managing these risks.

●	Evaluate and report on the ESG performance of their supply chains, ensuring transparency and accountability across all business relationships.

●	Depending on the size and type of business, organisations must meet specific deadlines for submitting their sustainability reports, with larger businesses facing earlier reporting timelines.

The Impact of CSRD Regulations on Finance Functions

A move towards stricter ESG regulation in Ireland via the CSRD’s rigorous reporting requirements will have a direct impact on finance functions. Finance teams must now:

Integrate Non-Financial Data

It is now a requirement to include non-financial data, such as sustainability metrics, within financial reports to comply with CSRD standards. This will not only increase the volume of work but will also necessitate new skills, tools, and interdepartmental collaboration to ensure compliance.

Incorporate Sustainability Goals into Corporate Strategy

With 82% of investors seeking greater integration of ESG considerations into corporate strategies, teams must ensure that sustainability objectives are embedded within the overall business strategy.

Ensure Sustainability Reporting is on Par with Financial Audits

Companies must demonstrate a clear commitment to sustainability by providing assurance on sustainability reports, at the same level of rigor as financial audits.

Develop Talent Strategies to Support ESG Reporting

It is now crucial for businesses to recruit finance professionals with both traditional financial expertise and the technical skills necessary for navigating complex ESG reporting frameworks. We are already beginning to see the impact here as evidence shows 62% of organisations have begun assigning sustainability responsibilities to C-suite roles.

Benefits of ESG Competencies for Businesses

For organisations in Ireland, the adoption of new CSRD reporting standards provides numerous advantages, both immediate and long-term. Here are some key benefits:

Regulatory Compliance
Ensuring compliance with EU’s CSRD reporting requirements is not optional. Failing to meet these standards could result in penalties and reputational damage. Finance professionals with expertise in ESG reporting will be able to guide businesses through these complex regulations, reducing the risk of non-compliance.

Investor Confidence
As sustainability becomes a key factor in investment decisions, companies that can demonstrate solid ESG credentials will attract more investment. Investors are increasingly looking for transparency and measurable impact when it comes to environmental, social, and governance practices.

Strategic Growth
ESG expertise in the finance team enables businesses to identify opportunities for strategic growth aligned with sustainability goals. This might include new revenue streams, improved operational efficiencies, and enhanced stakeholder relationships. Understanding how ESG impacts financial performance can help businesses pivot in ways that open up new growth avenues.

Brand Reputation and Trust
Consumers and employees alike are increasingly prioritising sustainability. By prioritising ESG and aligning with CSRD reporting standards, businesses not only comply with regulatory requirements but also build a reputation as a responsible corporate entity. This trust can be a key differentiator in a competitive market.

How To Attract and Retain Finance Talent with ESG and CSRD Expertise

Employers need to act quickly to secure finance talent with ESG and CSRD knowledge. However, finding the right candidates requires more than just a technical skills match.

Here are some steps you can take to ensure you attract and retain the best professionals:

Look Beyond Traditional Financial Expertise
It’s essential to look for candidates who not only have a strong financial background but also a proven track record in ESG. Candidates with experience in sustainability reporting or those who have worked with international standards such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) or the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) will be valuable assets to any team.

Cultural Fit is Key
ESG compliance requires creating a culture that values sustainability. Look for candidates who are passionate about environmental and social issues, as their commitment will inspire others within the company. A strong cultural fit is essential for long-term success in driving sustainability initiatives forward.

3.	Invest in Continuous Learning and Development ESG and sustainability regulations are constantly evolving. Offering ongoing training and professional development opportunities in ESG compliance and CSRD reporting is a great way to ensure your team remains ahead of the curve.

4.	Use Specialised Recruitment Agencies Working with a specialist recruitment firm like Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment can help employers connect with exceptional candidates with the unique skill sets needed for ESG and CSRD compliance.

Demand for finance professionals with ESG and CSRD expertise is growing, and businesses that fail to adapt to these changes risk falling behind. These competencies are now critical not only for compliance but also for business growth, investor relations, and brand reputation.

If you’re looking to find talented senior and mid-level finance professionals with ESG and CSRD expertise, Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment is here to help. Our extensive network and understanding of the finance and sustainability sectors, we can help you secure the right candidates to drive your business forward.

Quarterly Talent Market Insights: Accountancy & Finance

Posted on 19 February 202619 February 2026 by Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment

Get Your Exclusive Insight into What’s Driving Recruitment Across Ireland

Staying ahead in Ireland’s ever-competitive finance market requires an understanding of the trends shaping the salaries and benefits on offer.

Our Quarterly Talent Market Insights for Accountancy & Finance offers an essential overview of the industry shifts driving hiring, compensation structures and benefits informed by industry professionals and recruitment experts.

It’s designed to help finance professionals and employers alike make informed decisions by showcasing sector-specific expectations and strategies for recruitment and retention.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge to optimise your hiring processes and career decisions.

What’s Inside?

●	Detailed market breakdowns for Dublin, Northern Ireland, and the rest of Ireland.

●	Insights into emerging trends, such as the rise in hybrid working and the demand for experienced finance leaders.

●	Key strategies to help both professionals and employers navigate the talent market.

Key Highlights from the Quarterly Insights Guide

Northern Ireland

●	Base pay levels have stabilised, but total reward packages including flexible/hybrid work, healthcare, enhanced annual leave, and professional development are increasingly important.

●	Strong demand in shared services, manufacturing & engineering, public & not-for-profit sectors, and technology finance roles with automation and systems expertise.

●	Finance professionals with data analytics, ERP, and automation skills command salary premiums.

●	Hybrid work (2-3 days in office) is now a standard expectation, widening talent pools and improving retention.

Republic of Ireland

●	Dublin remains highly competitive with moderated salary inflation but strong demand for niche skills like FP&A, finance business partnering, data analytics, ERP, and automation.

●	Sector hotspots include Tech & FinTech, Pharma & Life Sciences, and Construction & Real Estate.

●	Flexible working and wellness benefits are key differentiators alongside competitive pay.

●	Outside Dublin, regions like Cork, Limerick, and Galway show steady growth with strong demand in med-tech, manufacturing, shared services, and scaling SMEs.

●	Hybrid work is established but more varied regionally, with shorter commutes and work-life balance highly valued.

Download the Report

Access the full Quarterly Talent Market Insights here:
Quarterly Talent Market Insights: Accountancy & Finance

Salary Benchmarking

For detailed salary benchmarking and to explore salary ranges by role and region, visit our dedicated 2026 Salary Guide landing page:
Explore the 2026 Salary Guide

Author: Martina Quinn Finance Recruitment