The Accountancy & Finance sector continues to evolve, with automation and digital transformation reshaping roles. This 2026 Salary Guide benchmarks market activity from 2025, highlighting the specialist skills in highest demand, the latest salary ranges and how employers are competing for finance talent across Ireland.

Accountancy & Finance Job Market Outlook 2026: Skills in Demand and Salary Insights

Salary Growth Stabilising

Following a period of significant salary inflation in the accountancy industry over the past number of years, we anticipate salaries to stabilise in 2026. Whilst this will not be a true statement for every job function, the lower and mid-level positions which have seen the most growth over the past few years will be impacted. 

AI Adoption Reshapes Roles

The rapid adoption of AI technology will continue to impact the accountancy sector at pace in 2026. AI will continue to automate routine tasks that were previously time consuming and required transactional staff to action repetitive duties. In addition, AI tools will enhance data analysis and provide strategic insights, changing the role of Accountants who find themselves adding more value as a strategic advisor to senior management teams. 

Demand for Tech-Savvy Accountants

2026 will see a changing demand from employers who are no longer looking to hire ‘Traditional Accountants’. Employers will place a greater emphasis on hiring candidates with a blend of knowledge and technological proficiency, including data analytics, and IT systems expertise. Whilst strong IT skills have long been an integral part of the accounting profession, the fast-evolving technological landscape has placed a greater emphasis on the ability of accounting professionals. Companies are actively seeking candidates who can play a lead role updating their IT systems and future proofing their efficiency in this AI age. 

Hybrid Work Divergence

It is anticipated that in 2026 we will continue to see a shifting landscape in regards to hybrid working. We expect to see a greater number of large multinational companies in Ireland continue to move more towards a predominantly office based model following the lead of their American parent companies. It is likely that these new requirements will not suit all employees and this will result in enhanced turnover of staff. 

At the opposite end of the spectrum are the SME companies who had resisted hybrid working models until now. We expect to see a higher percentage of companies of this size introduce hybrid working in some form. The main driver for this will be to retain and attract staff in a competitive market.