About 58% of finance professionals in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region are open to new job opportunities despite economic uncertainty, according to a survey.

The annual Global Talent Trends Survey 2024 by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), which surveyed 9,889 finance professionals, in 157 countries across the globe, suggests excitement among finance and audit employees with the possibilities that AI affords, but also enduring concern about its impact on jobs. The survey delves into key workplace elements such as hybrid working, diversity, mobility, mental health, and the cost of living.

It continues to show that employers and employees alike grappling with workplace challenges on multiple fronts including the cost-of-living crisis and concerns regarding pay in the profession, mental health issues, and meeting employee demands, and hybrid working.

The findings of the survey reveal more pressure on employers to get their employee engagement strategies right.

In addition to accountancy and finance, there are more professionals in the region looking for a pay rise this year, a notable dichotomy exists, with approximately 50% believing that they can achieve their financial goals by transitioning to a new organisation. This underscores the pressing need for organisations in APAC to rethink their talent retention strategies, aligning career progression and financial recognition with the expectations of their workforce.

In Singapore specifically, the survey reveals compelling insights. Notably, 7% of respondents expressed intentions to explore a new location or country in their next career move, with 4% considering such a move potentially sometime in the future. Improved salary and remuneration emerged as primary motivators for these prospective career shifts.