What should the US finance market plan for in Q4?
As the end of the year approaches, so do budget finalisations, year-end reporting & holiday commitments. All of which can put your team under pressure in every direction.
This time of year, is particularly important & busy for the US financial services market as workload can increase rapidly, and deadlines seem to all come at once. We understand this means finance teams can be understaffed and employees can experience high rates of burnout. That’s why recruiting for contract consultants can be of so much value, particularly within accounting roles.
We spoke to Tom Bostock, Senior Associate Vice President in our US financial services contract team, about what hiring managers should be planning for right now. Below we have detailed the key takeaways from our conversation with Tom. Take a read to better understand how recruiting contracting consultants can improve efficiency, decrease team stress and keep your business moving.
What do US hiring managers in financial firms most often underestimate?
“The cost of falling behind,” Tom explains. “If accounts aren’t submitted on time, it can lead to audit issues and significant fines. Recruiting the right contractor is a far better option, and it protects your team from burnout at the same time.”
“Timing in recruitment plays a part too. Many permanent candidates are reluctant to move until year-end bonuses are paid, which makes contract talent the most practical way to fill gaps now.“
What is your top advice for finance hiring managers during Q4?
“Always put your team’s wellbeing first. My biggest advice for any hiring manager, whether that’s in the financial industry or not, is making sure their team aren’t overworked or overstressed. When a team is stretched too thin, particularly within finance, the quality of the work suffers.” As Tom says getting support in early protects both your people and the standard of your reporting. That’s why considering your contract recruitment plan now could help your team in the long run.
What finance roles would you suggest hiring managers prioritise when planning Q4?
“Prioritize the roles that could slow you down. Look at where annual close and budget finalization are most likely to create bottlenecks. That way, your contract recruitment support goes exactly where it will have the biggest impact.”
How can contractors help projects keep moving in Q4?
“Projects often need specialist expertise your permanent team doesn’t have the bandwidth to cover during this time period. Bringing in a contractor with the right experience means those projects keep moving without pulling your team away from day-to-day priorities.”
How can contractors help hiring managers plan around teams’ holidays & breaks?
“Availability for interviews and onboarding shrinks quickly in Q4, so the earlier you move, the better. Starting the conversation now means your contractor can be in place before the busiest weeks begin. With contractors able to work fully remotely and a quick turnaround from our team, support can be in place when you need it most.”
Need to find the right candidate for your firm?
The US contract finance market is busy right now. Speed matters, but so does finding the right person, and that takes trust and genuine expertise. That’s what Oliver James does best. Our specialist team have worked in the US financial services market for over two decades. We work with our clients to find the right person quickly, so you’re never waiting on talent to move forward.
If you are in the US financial industry and would like to discuss your hiring plans, get in touch with Tom
