The SaaS & Financial Data sector is dynamic and has seen a lot of changes in 2023 and is moving towards a more diverse workforce in 2024. Amelia Clark, Consultant at RCQ Associates, reflects on the trends that emerged in 2023 and offers an outlook for 2024.
"Shortages in certain skills have affected the talent pool meaning that to remain competitive, companies are now offering remote working flexibility, alongside visa sponsorship. SaaS/financial data is a key sector to have embraced hybrid or fully remote work models, demonstrating a commitment to flexibility and adaptability. This has resulted in a more diverse workforce in the SaaS space.
Another interesting area of investment for the industry is that upskilling and reskilling initiatives for finance professionals has been prioritised. Acknowledging the swift evolution of technology, companies are expected to invest significantly in training their existing workforce. This commitment aims to bridge skill gaps, ensuring that finance teams remain competitive and agile in the face of the rapidly changing landscape.
Following a series of hiring freezes early in the year, employers in the sector moved to actively seeking individuals with strong technical expertise, strategic decision-making abilities, and an adaptable mindset to navigate the evolving terrain of financial technology. We observed a particular demand for financial analysts within the space.
A standout trend in this sector has been the emphasis on cyber security skills. As financial data underwent rapid digitization, companies prioritised the recruitment of professionals well-versed in cybersecurity measures. Looking ahead to 2024, we anticipate continued innovation in the hiring landscape for finance professionals, with a further expected demand for candidates with expertise in blockchain technology. This is driven by companies exploring innovative ways to secure transactions and streamline financial processes.
In summary, 2023 saw the SaaS/financial data field being one of the embracing the opportunities presented by the evolving digital landscape, with a continued commitment to upskilling and flexibility at work. The industry is poised for further innovation in 2024, with increased demand for blockchain expertise and a continued emphasis on leveraging data analytics".
