Finance & Corporate Services recruitment trends
The Finance and corporate services market continues to be influenced by global economic factors, particularly the impact of US trade tariffs on imports. These tariffs have directly affected commodity prices, impacting mining companies’ profitability and share prices. While employment levels in mining remain high, uncertainty surrounds the coming months, prompting greater caution among senior leaders.
In Western Australia’s Senior Finance market, movement has been limited, largely driven by uncertainty in the resources sector. Many candidates are choosing to remain in their current organisations rather than seeking new opportunities, and budget constraints have restricted companies from expanding their teams.
The Procurement sector experienced a dynamic market in 2024, with many organisations centralising their procurement functions and prioritising cost reduction strategies. As a result, procurement teams became increasingly integrated into core business operations, leading to a rise in hiring to support these initiatives.
In Human Resources, demand for professionals has remained steady, particularly in mid-level roles and select senior positions. Organisations continue to seek experienced HR talent to support evolving workforce needs and strategic business objectives.
Finance & Corporate Services recruitment – looking forward
The finance and corporate services market is expected to remain steady in WA supported by continued growth in sectors such as defence and medical research. Looking ahead, commodity prices, global trade, the US election, the WA state election, and emerging technology trends will all influence market demand throughout 2025. However, uncertainty in the global market persists, particularly regarding US tariffs and their impact on WA’s resources sector, budgets, and local spending.
Finance automation will continue to evolve, with increased use of AI and machine learning for routine tasks. HR teams will need to address the impact of AI on job roles, including upskilling and reskilling employees. Business analytics will become even more critical, with a growing need for quick data access to drive enhanced decision-making. Finance professionals will require stronger technology and data protection skills, alongside a willingness to embrace new digital tools.
For the Procurement sector, despite current market caution due to trade concerns, the US election, and fluctuating commodity prices, WA still has several high-value projects in the pipeline. These include the $738M Henderson Defence Precinct, as well as key mining developments such as Mineral Resources’ Lamb Creek, Rio Tinto’s Brockman Mine extension, and Perdaman’s Urea project. Additionally, anticipated government spending post-WA election and potential interest rate reductions could drive increased demand for procurement professionals.
In Human Resources, many organisations are implementing a "return to office" policy and reducing the number of days employees can work from home. HR teams with Line Managers will need to work on clear Employee Value Propositions (EVP) as candidates are seeking companies with stability, good projects and hybrid arrangements. Companies will have a focus on technology, HR analytics and AI through the employee lifecycle improving onboarding, L&D, employee experience, succession planning and retention strategies.
