Hiring Insights for the UK Financial Services Sector: May 2026

Financial services recruitment has entered 2026 on a strong footing, with hiring activity increasing across insurance, banking and professional services.

While London remains the dominant centre for specialist talent, growth is becoming increasingly dispersed across the UK as employers respond to skills shortages, cost pressures and shifting business priorities. What’s emerging is a market shaped just as much by long-term structural change as by the wider economic environment.

But how is this playing out across different areas of financial services hiring?

At Sanderson, we keep our finger on the pulse of the latest market movements so we can help you understand how these trends may impact your hiring strategy and where the opportunities may lie.

That’s why we’re pleased to share our latest Report produced in partnership with VacancySoft, highlighting the key developments across the UK Financial Services market during May.

Here’s a sneak peek of some of the key insights:

Claims Hiring Driven by Talent Shortages

London claims vacancies were 12% higher in Q1 compared to last year, with March alone running approximately 30% ahead of March 2025, reflecting a widening experience gap, as retirements accelerate and insurers compete for highly specialised talent.

Northern Cities Continue to Attract Professional Roles

The North of England is seeing sustained growth, with professional vacancies reaching a record high in March and cities like Manchester and Leeds continuing to attract roles that would previously have been London-based.

Actuarial Demand Accelerates

Demand for actuarial talent remains elevated, particularly in London with vacancies running approximately 16% ahead of early 2025 levels.

Scottish Banking Market Sees Significant Growth

Scotland is emerging as a key growth area within banking with commercial banking vacancies roughly trebled since the beginning of 2025, now exceeding banking operations roles.

Underwriting Talent Shortages Intensify

London underwriter vacancies are running at almost double the volume of the next-largest role category, highlighting the scale of demand and ongoing talent shortages in this area.

If you’d like a more detailed overview of these trends, including the latest market data, vacancy totals and insights into the most in-demand roles, then download the full Report below.

Have any questions? Don’t hesitate to get in touch, we’re here to help you turn insight into action.