Financial executives expect hiring in finance and accounting to accelerate during the fourth quarter, says a survey by Robert Half International.

Nineteen percent of chief financial officers surveyed said they plan to add full-time employees and 5% expect staff reductions. The net 14% increase is up 10 points from the third-quarter projection.

“Continued business growth and a focus on compliance initiatives have heightened the demand for finance and accounting professionals,” says David King, executive vice-president with the firm.

“As the competition for talent increases, companies need to be able to thoroughly evaluate candidates and extend employment offers quickly, as experienced professionals are often inundated with numerous offers.”

The report is based on interviews with more than 270 CFOs from Canadian companies with 20 or more employees.

Another survey released today found that the hiring climate is also positive in other industries.

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