As Chicago swelters under a summer heat wave, the business climate is warming up too—especially when it comes to finance and accounting hiring.
After a cautious start to the year, we’re seeing renewed urgency among employers. At Katalyst Group, we specialize in connecting high-performing organizations with top-tier finance and accounting talent—and right now, the market is shifting. Whether you’re filling a gap, scaling your team, or planning ahead for Q4, now is the time to act.
Why Midyear Momentum Is Building
Companies across industries are picking up the pace after months of hiring slowdowns. Roles that were once delayed are now back on the table—particularly in financial planning, corporate accounting, and audit support. According to recent reports, finance teams are grappling with talent shortages and rising workloads, prompting leaders to move quickly on hiring plans.
We’re seeing increased demand for both permanent and interim finance talent as companies position themselves for a strong finish to 2025. In fact, many of our clients are accelerating searches to avoid the fall hiring crunch.
The Risk of Waiting Too Long
Hiring timelines are stretching—especially for in-demand roles like controllers, analysts, and FP&A leads. By the time fall arrives, you may be competing for talent in an already tight market. Delaying now could mean lost productivity, overstretched teams, and stalled initiatives when clarity is needed most.
Hiring midyear allows you to get ahead of the competition, onboard more thoughtfully, and ensure your team has the capacity to meet year-end goals.
Finance Professionals Are on the Move
We’re also seeing a shift in candidate behavior. After staying put through earlier uncertainty, top finance professionals are now open to new opportunities—particularly those offering flexibility, growth potential, and purpose-driven leadership.
This creates a unique window for organizations to engage highly qualified, often passive, candidates—before the most in-demand talent is snapped up.
Why Now? Because the Market Is Moving
Companies are reopening searches that were paused earlier this year.
Finance professionals are reentering the market and exploring new roles.
Delays now could lead to lost time and missed opportunities in Q4.
Many organizations are experiencing increased workloads and skills gaps, especially in FP&A, reporting, and compliance. Being proactive—rather than waiting—can help you stay ahead of the surge.
What Roles Are in Demand?
We’re seeing high demand in:
- Interim controllers and project-based accounting support
- Financial analysts and FP&A talent
- Strategic CFO and finance leadership roles
Hiring midyear gives you a clearer path to onboard and build momentum before the Fall 2025 hiring rush begins.
How Katalyst Group Can Help
As a specialized finance and accounting recruiting firm based in Chicago, our team combines deep industry knowledge with a proactive, high-touch approach. Many of our recruiters come from accounting and finance backgrounds themselves, giving us a unique understanding of both the technical and cultural needs of each hire.
Whether you need a strategic CFO, interim controller, or hands-on financial analyst, we help you hire smarter—so your team is ready when it counts.
Let’s Make the Most of the Momentum
There’s no better time to strengthen your finance and accounting team. Let’s talk about your goals and how we can help you navigate this market shift with confidence.
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