How firms are Evolving their Benefits Packages to Attract and Retain Top Talent
As the UK accounting and finance sectors prepare for 2026, employee expectations are evolving beyond salary alone. Flexible working, professional development, and wellbeing initiatives are increasingly valued by finance professionals, and firms that adapt their benefits packages accordingly will gain a competitive edge in attracting and retaining talent. Drawing on survey data and industry insights, this article explores the most sought-after benefits, highlights sector-specific trends, and offers guidance on designing future-ready employee offerings. Sheridan Maine partners with organisations to help craft benefits strategies that balance flexibility, career growth, and wellbeing, ensuring a workforce that is engaged, resilient, and prepared for the challenges ahead.
By Caroline Furness, Published 25 March 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, UK accounting, audit, and tax employers are prioritising flexible working, professional training, and structured career progression as key components of their employee value propositions. According to our survey:
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Flexible / hybrid work arrangements – 78%
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Professional training / certification support – 72%
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Career progression / mentoring programs – 67%
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Bonus schemes (≥5%) – 61%
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Pension / retirement ≥5% – 58%
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Annual leave ≥25 days – 56%
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Private health insurance – 54%
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Mental health / wellbeing programs – 48%
This data reflects a shift toward holistic employee offerings, recognising that compensation alone is no longer enough to attract and retain talent. Professional services firms embedding hybrid working with mentoring programmes have successfully reduced mid-level attrition, while finance teams in retail and pharmaceuticals combine flexibility with funded development to retain ERP and data-skilled professionals.
We believe that employers who integrate flexibility, career development, and wellbeing initiatives will remain most competitive in 2026, appealing to professionals at all stages of their careers.
Sheridan Maine partners with organisations to craft benefits and policies that attract and retain top talent, balancing flexibility, development, and wellbeing for a future-ready workforce.
