A recent study by MasterCard predicted London would be the most popular tourist destination in worldwide in 2014 with 18.7 million international visitors. It is no surprise, then, that the leisure sector is predicted to remain buoyant in 2015 with hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions hiring accountancy professionals to help manage demand.
Joss Collins, a financial services specialist at Venn Group, says: ‘I predict hot sectors in 2015 will include retail. Retail is continually a strong performing sector. And, with a 25% rise in rental growth in the past year on Oxford Street in London, for example, this trend looks set to continue into next year.
‘Conveying has been a growth area in recent months and the stamp duty reforms announced in the 2014 Autumn Statement should ensure that the property market continues to show signs of vitality.’
Likewise the construction sector promises to perform well in 2015. Post-recession, construction is booming and, as a result, there will continue to be strong demand for accountancy professionals throughout the year.
The ongoing changes in legislation within the financial services sector look set to continue into 2015, with experts predicting sweeping alterations to the existing Basel III international accord. As such, professionals with solid experience in analytics and reporting will continue to be in demand.
Interpret data
Phil Sheridan, managing director at Robert Half, says: ‘Many employers are seeking accountants with effective problem-solving and analytical skills, particularly as data volumes continue to increase. Employers are looking for professionals who can collect, manage and interpret data, and draw the insights needed for more effective decision making.’
Management accountants are sure to be in strong demand in 2015. Organisations are looking for individuals capable of advising on the financial implications of business decisions. With many firms investing in their infrastructure, they want to be sure capital projects will offer a healthy return on investment.
Commercial/finance business partners will be sought after too this year. Finance experts are looking for individuals with broader experience in business, as they seek to improve processes and identify new efficiencies – hence why business leaders recognise the importance of reviewing corporate strategy in the current environment trends.