Salary battle proves tough for 70% of finance professionals: Robert Half

Recent research from Robert Half has revealed that finance employees are looking to increase their pay yet are struggling to negotiate successful terms.

The research, Robert Half 2025 Salary Guide, found that 49 per cent of employers stated that candidates were more demanding when it came to requesting an increase in salary compared to the previous year.

It also found that 70 per cent of finance workers said it was more challenging to negotiate a pay rise now than it was in the same period last year, with only 9 per cent of workers having reported it as less challenging and 21 per cent having noted there was no change.

Nicole Gorton, director of Robert Half, said the research uncovered the war wagering between workers and their employers about their remuneration.

“Our 2025 Salary Guide paints a picture of the complex salary dynamic that will shape the job market this year,” Gorton said.

“The current work environment faces a salary dilemma. Employers continue to face budget constraints and focus on cost management while the demand for higher pay has become louder from employees who haven’t had a significant pay rise during a turbulent few years despite their hard work and their need to feel financially stable.”

The survey demonstrated 92 per cent of finance workers would not let challenging salary negotiations stop them from asking for a pay rise this year.

The survey asked workers on what basis they would expect a salary increase over the next year, with 35 per cent having said recognition for increased efforts in their role, 34 per cent said a need for a higher income and another 34 per cent said valuable acquisition of new skills or qualifications.

On the other hand, 30 per cent of employers agreed that merit warranted a pay rise, while 26 per cent stated all employees were evaluated on similar criteria and other reasons could also influence salary decisions.

According to the research, if employers could not meet worker demands, 32 per cent said they would leave their position immediately or begin looking for work elsewhere, while 38 per cent would bide their time and maintain good ethic, 41 per cent would focus on professional development and 37 per cent would ask to revisit the conversation at a later date.

Gorton said employees were becoming more vocal about their contributions and compensation expectations and that inflation affected their “hip pocket.”

Permanent roles that were in highest demand in the finance and accounting sector for national average salaries included financial controllers, FP&A manager/business partners, finance managers, financial accountants, management accountants, assistant accountants and AP/AR officers.

“Failing to recognise and reward top performers is a costly oversight. While salary increases aren’t always feasible, open communication, robust benefits packages and professional development opportunities are necessary for maintaining morale, engagement and loyalty,” Gorton said.

“After all, competitive compensation and comprehensive rewards are essential for attracting and retaining top talent as well as remaining an employer of choice.”