2026

Salary Guide

Industry Compensation & Market Insights
Explore salary benchmarks, workforce trends, and strategic insights to stay competitive in today’s talent market.

Inside the Report

Hiring Trends

Gain exclusive insights into job seeker and employer priorities shaping the 2026 hiring landscape.

Hot Jobs & Credentials

Learn key functions driving career growth in 2026 across accounting, finance, tax, audit and HR fields.

Salary & Bonus Report

Access salary and bonus information for more than 48 accounting, finance and HR roles.

Benefits, Incentives & Perks

Explore impactful workplace incentives influencing the decision-making of today’s professionals.

2026

Outlook

Across accounting, finance and HR, companies are rethinking what matters most — favoring skills over degrees and paving the way for a more accessible, merit-driven job market. In 2026, the acceleration of AI adoption in all three sectors is expected to continue creating demand for hybrid skill sets that combine technical expertise with strategic thinking.

With weak job growth in Q3 & Q4, employers that invest in reskilling, digital transformation and flexible hiring models are best positioned to thrive in this evolving landscape.

94%

Ninety percent of companies report they make better hires based on skills rather than degrees, and 94% say skills-based hires outperform degree-based hires. (ADP)

AI is Reshaping Roles & Skills in 2026

AI is no longer a future concept — it’s now embedded in daily operations across finance, accounting and HR departments. From automating routine tasks to enhancing organizational planning, AI helps professionals work smarter, not harder

81%

say AI boosts productivity, and 86% report reduced mental load thanks to automation. (AccountancyAge)

61%

of HR leaders are actively planning or deploying generative AI tools. (Gartner)

Century Group Identify. Evaluate. Deliver.

Century Group stands as a top recruitment and staffing firm
dedicated to providing superior talent to start-up, mid-market and Global 1000 enterprises.

With a wealth of experience spanning more than three decades,
we leverage our specialized focus and vast talent network to swiftly identify, evaluate and deliver professionals that meet your business needs on a temporary, temp-to-hire or direct hire basis.

Century Group <span>Identify. Evaluate. Deliver.</span>

About Us

At Century Group, we’re more than recruiters — we’re former accountants, HR professionals and seasoned search professionals who know the ins and outs of the industries we serve. With deep roots in finance, accounting and human resources, our team understands the unique challenges of hiring and retaining talent in a competitive market.

We don’t just fill roles — we build relationships. With a sharp eye for top performers and a clear understanding of what drives business success, Century Group connects companies with professionals who are ready to make an impact.

In the last decade, we’ve conducted over 35,000 direct hire and temporary assignments for leading companies in a growing range of industries, successfully filling positions in accounting, finance, tax, audit and HR functions.

Direct Hire Solutions

We offer a proven process for talent solutions that tracks candidates throughout their careers. More than 70% of our candidates have advanced degrees and credentials from renowned entities like the Big 4 and Fortune 500.

Professional Staffing Solutions

Navigating the complexities of uncertain markets requires foresight. Century Group leads the way by proactively identifying talent before your needs arise. We provide tailored, short-term solutions and prescreened professionals with the skills to match any long-term hire.

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Do your skills match your paycheck?

Download our 2026 Salary Guide to gain exclusive insights.