High Willingness to Change – but Selective Movement in the Finance Job Market
Almost half of the respondents are planning to change their job in finance in 2026, and a further 22% are considering doing so. At the same time, just over half of those willing to change jobs are currently actively looking. This reluctance to take immediate action makes clear that the finance candidate market exists but is much more selective than in previous years. Instead of reacting impulsively, many professionals view a job change as a strategic decision, shaped by their need for security, clearly defined roles and long-term prospects.
“The survey clearly shows that many employees are unsure and considering a job change without acting immediately. For employers, this means the candidate market is there, but it is sensitive to conditions and offerings,” explains Stefan Bäuchl, Managing Director of Schulmeister Management Consulting Hamburg GmbH.
Survey Details and Sample Profile
A total of 1,122 finance professionals from Austria and Germany participated in the study. The largest age groups were 36–45 years (33%), 46–55 years (36%) and 26–35 years (23%). Women accounted for 55% of respondents, resulting in a slightly female-skewed sample. This cohort represents experienced professionals who are midway through their careers and seeking both stability and growth opportunities.
Job Security as a Key Influence on Career Decisions
Perceptions of job security in finance roles were mixed. Around one third of respondents believe their job may be at risk in the medium term due to current economic conditions, though most do not feel immediately threatened. This uncertainty does not lead to rash resignations but instead results in cautious behaviour. For many, stability remains a central factor in deciding whether to stay or look for a new position — a trend reflected in broader labour-market research showing that economic uncertainty and job quality concerns continue to influence employee decision-making.
Income Developments Heighten Sensitivity to New Opportunities
In addition to subjective perceptions, the survey found measurable financial impacts: 38% of respondents report a decline in their annual income due to the current economic situation. This has directly affected many finance professionals’ personal finances, making them more open to new job opportunities — especially where salary structure, planning certainty and career development prospects are communicated clearly.
Leadership, Career Prospects, Salary and Team Fit Remain Key Factors
While salary continues to be important for job satisfaction and willingness to change jobs, the survey highlights consistent patterns of dissatisfaction in finance roles. Among the most commonly cited issues were:
- Lack of transparent and supportive leadership
- Limited career progression and development opportunities
- Poor team fit
These same factors — combined with a competitive salary and interesting responsibilities — also rank highly as criteria that make employers attractive to talent. This aligns with broader employment trends showing that cultural and interpersonal factors play a pivotal role in career decisions.
Conclusion for Employers: Clear Positioning Required in 2026
The latest survey results make one thing clear: the finance labour market in 2026 will be dynamic but demanding. Many professionals are open to changing jobs, but they expect security, prospects and appreciative leadership — alongside competitive compensation. Employers that address these expectations clearly and strategically will secure a lasting advantage in the competition for qualified finance talent.
About Schulmeister Management Consulting Hamburg GmbH
Schulmeister Consulting has been specialising in the placement of finance and business roles for 25 years. Each year, the firm successfully fills around 500 specialist and leadership positions in accounting, controlling and tax.
In addition to the German market, Schulmeister Consulting operates from several locations in Austria and the Czech Republic and employs a team of around 50 professionals.
