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Despite reports of a number of retailers reducing headcount or implementing recruitment freezes, many are bucking the trend by seeking out the best talent on the market. We look at what attracts accountants to this sector.
While the majority of the larger retailers continue to be cautious in recruiting new talent, a number of the medium and smaller sized retailers are creating new positions. We’ve been working with a number of high street and niche retailers who have been looking for strong commercially minded accounting and finance talent available on the market.
It’s often the high profile nature of retailers which creates a big ‘pull factor’
For others it’s a time for extreme measures. For one specialist high street retailer this has meant a complete overhaul of its entire senior management team bringing in a leaner yet more efficient finance department.
So what is attracting candidates to work in this sector? It’s often the high profile nature of retailers which creates a big ‘pull factor’ while giving accountants the opportunity to combine their genuine passion for the brand or product with their work. Both of these arguably help keep accountants in the sector and attract those from the FMCG and media sector.
In addition it’s the wide variety of responsibilities in a retail accounting role which makes working in the sector attractive. One day you might be discussing trading patterns and finances in laymen terms to a shop manager, the next day you’re creating a strategy on exporting products to a european market making the most of the strength of the Euro. And it’s not uncommon to be exposed to international and franchise accounting processes or being asked to consider the benefits of online retail.
In addition to the commercial and technical skills required, it’s crucial that employers competing for talent stress the need for softer skills when recruiting accounting and finance professionals. Strong communication, management and leadership skills are undoubtedly key to being successful in this sector and there appears to be little room for shrinking violets – it’s all about big personalities!
