What Senior Finance Candidates Are Looking For in 2025
- Tara Forster Sowa
- Mar 20
- 3 min read
As businesses navigate economic uncertainty, digital transformation, and shifting workforce expectations, senior finance professionals are becoming more discerning about where they work. It’s no longer just about salary—sharp candidates want roles that align with their personal and professional aspirations. Companies that fail to adapt to these expectations risk losing out on the best and brightest.
If you’re hiring senior finance talent in 2025, these are five key things they’re looking for.
1. A Clear Path to Influence and Strategic Decision-Making
Senior finance candidates aren’t just looking to crunch numbers—they want a seat at the table. They seek roles where they can shape the company’s future, not just report on its past. If a company still views finance as a support function rather than a strategic one, it may struggle to attract top-tier candidates.
Why It Matters:
The CFO role is evolving—Finance leaders today are expected to drive business strategy, not just financial stewardship.
Decision-making power is crucial—Top finance executives want direct involvement in corporate strategy, M&A, and investment decisions.
They want to be business partners—Gone are the days when finance was a back-office function. Senior candidates expect to collaborate with CEOs, boards, and department heads.
2. Cutting-Edge Financial Technology and Data Analytics
Finance leaders want access to the best tools available to drive efficiency, insights, and strategic growth.
Why It Matters:
AI and automation are transforming finance—Candidates want to work with AI-driven forecasting, automated reporting, and real-time analytics.
Data-driven decision-making is now the norm—Executives expect access to sophisticated dashboards, predictive analytics, and cloud-based finance tools.
Efficiency and accuracy are key—Finance professionals know that outdated or poorly implemented systems can lead to inefficiencies, errors, and wasted time.
3. A Compensation Package That Goes Beyond Salary
Top finance candidates are looking for a total rewards package, not just a paycheque, but a below-market compensation package will instantly disqualify a company in the eyes of elite candidates.
What They Expect:
Competitive base salary and performance-based incentives—Still a key factor, but not the only one.
Comprehensive benefits—Strong healthcare plans, retirement contributions, and wellness benefits.
Flexibility and work-life balance—Hybrid work models and generous PTO policies are increasingly non-negotiable.
4. A Strong, Purpose-Driven Corporate Culture
Finance leaders care about more than just numbers—they care about impact. A toxic workplace or poor leadership will drive candidates away, even with a high salary on the table.
Why It Matters:
Ethical leadership and corporate responsibility—Candidates want to work for companies that prioritize sustainability and ethical finance practices.
A clear company vision—Senior finance executives want alignment between their work and the organization’s long-term mission.
Employee engagement and leadership development—A culture that invests in leadership training and employee growth is highly attractive.
5. Opportunities for Continuous Learning and Professional Growth
The best finance executives don’t just rest on their laurels—they seek growth. Companies that don’t invest in executive development risk losing top talent to more forward-thinking organizations. A lack of growth opportunities signals stagnation, which is a red flag for ambitious finance leaders.
What They Expect:
Access to mentorship and peer networking—Engagement with other top leaders through conferences and professional organizations.
Cross-functional exposure—Senior finance candidates want opportunities to work across different business units to broaden their expertise.
Conclusion
The senior finance talent market in 2025 is more demanding than ever. Today’s executives aren’t just looking for a job—they’re looking for influence, innovation, and a workplace that aligns with their values and ambitions. Companies that offer strategic involvement, cutting-edge technology, comprehensive compensation, a purpose-driven culture, and continuous learning opportunities will stand out. Those that don’t will find themselves left behind, struggling to attract the best minds in finance.
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