In the year ahead, developments in the financial markets, the geo-strategic outlook, and the growing emphasis on sustainability and ESG standards will continue to drive demand for finance professionals with sector-specific technical expertise. “In 2025, flexibility and growth opportunities will define the competition for top talent in banking and financial services, where technical skills alone are no longer enough,” says Stephen Fournier, principal at recruitment specialist Robert Walters.

Most in-demand banking & financial services professionals in 2025

• Compliance & Risk Management Specialist

• Accounting & Finance Specialist

• Investment Specialist

Key skills for banking & financial services professionals in 2025

• Proactivity

• Resilience

• Strong business acumen

• Excellent interpersonal skills

Rise in temporary and entry-level roles

Next to permanent positions, the banking sector is expected to see an increase in temporary roles in 2025, as companies seek agile staffing solutions to adapt to market fluctuations and regulatory demands. Temporary roles provide flexibility for both employers and employees, allowing organizations to meet short-term needs and individuals to gain varied experiences and skills. 

“Additionally, we anticipate that there will be more opportunities for entry-level positions, particularly in risk & compliance and digital transformation, as banks and insurers invest in developing new talent,” says Stephen. “These roles will offer graduates and early-career professionals the opportunity to learn and grow within the banking environment.”

Skill needs are evolving

Stephen: “As companies place greater emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria, there will be a growing need for professionals who can integrate these principles into financial strategies and operations. This trend will drive demand for roles such as ESG analysts and sustainability consultants within the banking and financial services sector.”

Moreover, banking professionals will be required to adapt to new technologies and regulatory landscapes quickly. Knowledge of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation will be increasingly valuable. The ability to support continuous process improvement initiatives in a rapidly evolving environment will be crucial for success in these roles.

Talent attraction and retention in 2025

To attract and retain top talent, organizations must not only offer competitive compensation packages but also create supportive and inclusive work environments that promote work-life balance and offer clear career advancement pathways,” says Stephen Fournier. “Employers will also need to focus on fostering a culture of continuous learning and development to keep their workforce competitive. Training programs and professional development opportunities will be essential in equipping employees with the necessary skills to thrive in the future banking landscape.”

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