The number of full-time employees in accounting and finance departments could remain little changed in the third quarter, according to the latest Robert Half Financial Hiring Index. Eighty-seven per cent of chief financial officers (CFOs) interviewed expect to maintain their current staff levels in the upcoming quarter. Five per cent of respondents said they plan to add accounting and finance employees, while 3 per cent anticipate staff decreases.

Despite the conservative hiring forecast, nearly four in 10 (38 per cent) executives said they face a recruiting environment that is either somewhat or very challenging. This is up from 32 per cent last quarter.

The Robert Half Financial Hiring Index, part of the company's quarterly Professional Employment Report, is based on telephone interviews with more than 270 CFOs across Canada. It was conducted by an independent research firm and developed by Robert Half International, the world's first and largest staffing services firm specialising in accounting and finance.

"Although financial hiring is expected to hold steady in the next three months, candidate shortages in high-demand areas are rising," said Kathryn Bolt, president of Robert Half Canada. "Organisations seek professionals in areas such as payroll, financial analysis and accounting, and those unable to make a full-time hire are working with temporary or project professionals to alleviate staff workloads and access specialised skills immediately."

Accounting and Finance Hiring -- By Industry

Executives in the construction industry expect to do the most hiring in the third quarter, according to the survey. Twenty-two per cent of respondents in the sector said they expect to add accounting and finance professionals, compared to 4 per cent who anticipate cutbacks.