WEALTH May 27, 2026 0 Comments

Why Irish Financial Services Are Defying Global Hiring Trends – And What It Means for Your Business Growth

Ever wonder why Irish accountancy and finance pros seem to stick with their employers more than the global crowd? It’s not just luck or the charming Irish way—there’s something deeper brewing beneath the surface. According to the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) 2026 Global Talent Trend Survey, a solid 44% of Irish respondents say their next job might be somewhere else, but that’s still notably less than the 52% global average. What gives? It’s a testament to stronger loyalty, yes, but also a savvy, balanced approach to the evolving world of work—be it hybrid setups, mental health struggles, or the looming presence of AI. This patience, this pragmatism, speaks volumes about culture, career progression, and resilience in the Irish finance sector. Let’s dive into why these numbers matter and what they tell us about retaining top talent in turbulent times. LEARN MORE

Irish accountancy and finance professionals are less likely to leave their employer than their international peers, according to the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) 2026 Global Talent Trend Survey.

Some 44% of Irish respondents to the survey expect their next job to be with another organisation compared to the global average of 52%, pointing to stronger levels of employee loyalty and retention in Ireland.

More than 11,000 people in 160 countries responded to the fourth annual Global Talent Trends Survey, the largest annual survey of accountancy and finance professionals worldwide.

The findings suggest Irish professionals are taking a balanced and pragmatic approach to changing workplace expectations around office attendance, wellbeing and artificial intelligence.

While hybrid working remains the preferred arrangement for the majority of Irish respondents, 58% agreed that spending more time in the office can positively impact future promotion opportunities.

Just under half (49%) of Irish respondents said their mental health suffers because of work pressures, compared with 54% globally.

Attitudes towards artificial intelligence are measured, and only 22% of Irish respondents are worried their employer is investing more in AI than in people.

Irish respondents also reported fewer workplace difficulties between age groups than their international peers.

Just 27% said their organisation experiences challenges supporting collaboration between employees of different generations, compared with 42% globally.

Nearly half (49%) disagreed that this was an issue in their workplace.

“The findings suggest finance professionals in Ireland are taking a balanced and pragmatic view of the changing workplace,” said Stephen Noonan, head of ACCA Ireland.

“Employees clearly value flexibility and new technology, but they also continue to place strong importance on career progression, workplace culture and wellbeing.

ACCA — 44% of Irish respondents expect their next move to be external, compared to 52% globally.

“It is particularly encouraging to see stronger levels of employee loyalty in Ireland, alongside positive attitudes towards collaboration across teams and generations.

“As the profession continues to evolve through AI and wider workplace change, employers who continue to invest in people and skills will be best placed to attract and retain talent.”

Photo: Stephen Noonan. (Pic: File)