Qualified accountants in short supply

Scotland is currently suffering from a lack of skilled accountancy professionals, a new poll reveals.

Conducted by CA Magazine, the survey found that employers in the area of having difficulty in recruiting accountants of a high calibre, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (Icas) notes.

In fact, 57 per cent of Scotland's 50 largest accounting companies reported "serious challenges" when faced with the prospect of recruiting new staff.

Moreover, Icas states that the issue is likely to be long-term.

Robert Outram, editor of CA Magazine, said that it was good news for jobseekers in the profession.

"It’s good news for CAs [chartered accountants] looking for a move, or a salary hike, but bad news for their employers," he commented.

Mr Outram added that retention and recruitment have become problematic in the industry.

Accountants were recently advised by recruitment specialist Max Williamson to look for vacancies that are suitable and provide long-term benefits rather than initial remuneration packages that could offer exotic holidays.