What lies ahead in 2026?
In 2026, opportunities for finance professionals continue to be strong.
In this article, Moir Group Director, Stephen Moir, provides an outlook for the year ahead and shares his top five insights and strategies for finance and accounting professionals to thrive in the new year.
1. Good finance executives provide confidence during times of uncertainty
Australia was affected by a string of economic challenges in 2025. The cost-of-living crisis, US-imposed tariffs and the impact of AI created uncertainty for businesses. Further fuelling this uncertainty were job-cut announcements from major organisations, such as big banks and large technology companies, affecting thousands of white-collar workers.
While Stephen said the outlook for 2026 may again be one of uncertainty, he remains optimistic about the prospects for executives in the finance, accounting and ESG sectors. He emphasised that highly skilled executives can help businesses withstand external challenges.
“Good finance executives have a big impact on organisations,” Stephen said. “If you’re confident in your CFO, that they’re making good decisions, are competent and add value back to the business, then it gives everybody in the organisation confidence.”
Key opportunity: A skilled finance executive uses the uncertain landscape as an opportunity to showcase their skills and bring clarity to the organisation.
2. Adaptability and strong interpersonal skills are important for career progression
Stephen believes accounting and finance executives are primed for major opportunities in 2026 because of their ability to oversee non-finance responsibilities.
“The role might still be called CFO, but today, they often look after IT, HR, sustainability, data security, AI and other functions,” he said.
Stephen added that CFOs often become CEOs, and this shift may require them to further strengthen their interpersonal skills. Other top skills Stephen considered necessary were curiosity, and an ability to embrace change and see it as an opportunity.
“I think that curiosity is important,” Stephen said. “I think people skills are really key. You have to be really good at business partnering, working with multiple stakeholders and getting on with people. All of these people traits are really important heading into next year.”
Key opportunity: Be curious and embrace change if you aim to thrive as a business leader.
3. Focus on sustainability reporting
Stephen highlighted the growing focus on sustainability reporting.
“Reporting on your company’s sustainability performance is becoming increasingly important,” he said. “Good companies are across this; if you’re strong in this area, it’s a good sign that you’re a strong company because you take it seriously.”
Stephen added that many opportunities will emerge in both the reporting and implementation aspects of sustainability.
“The next stage is the implementation,” he said. “There are good opportunities there and a lot of that is going to fit under finance, which is why a lot of CFOs have responsibility for this function.”
Key opportunity: Consider the opportunities present in the reporting and implementation aspects of sustainability.
4. Believe in yourself and your capabilities
Stephen encouraged executives to take on new opportunities, even if they are challenging.
“Often in these times where things move quickly, the opportunities are there,” he said. “You just have to put your hand up, back yourself and jump in.”
Stephen went on to discuss the importance of overcoming imposter syndrome. “Don’t think it’s just you,” he said. “Have a go and if it is a good company culture, people will support you. If you’re working in an environment that you’re not suited to, then you may have to make a change.”
Key opportunity: Take on new and challenging opportunities to enhance your skillset.
5. Recruit the right employees for the position
For companies looking to succeed during uncertain economic times, Stephen advised recruiting candidates that fit the culture. He added that candidates in finance have an advantage because they have transferable skills.
“In these times of change, finance employees can bring ideas and skills from other industries that could really benefit your organisation,” Stephen said.
Finally, Stephen suggested that finance executives recruit candidates who are quick learners.
“Focus on people that are excellent,” he said. “Even if someone does not have all the skills, if they are excellent, they will pick them up quickly, they will learn quickly, and they will get a good outcome.”
Key opportunity: Hire candidates that fit your company culture. This can have a positive impact on your organisation.
If you have any recruitment needs in your team on a permanent or temporary basis we would be delighted to assist.
Moir Group is a specialist finance, accounting and ESG recruitment company. We cover temporary and permanent roles from Financial Accountant to CFO level. We also recruit Sustainability and ESG positions across all industry sectors.