More than half (52%) of finance professionals have ambitions to become entrepreneurs, according to a recent study by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

Furthermore, 62% of those surveyed expect to change jobs within the next two years, indicating a notable transformation in career aspirations.

The ACCA’s annual Global Talent Trends Survey 2025 sheds light on the changing attitudes of professionals in accountancy and finance.

This year’s survey, now in its third year, captures the views of over 10,000 individuals from 175 nations regarding their work experiences and future goals.

Many respondents perceive accountancy as a route to entrepreneurial pursuits, with a significant number considering it a launchpad for establishing their own enterprises.

This trend could be advantageous for employers, as there is a rising demand for accountants with entrepreneurial capabilities in various finance and business positions.

The survey also highlighted that 67% of participants are keen on pursuing accountancy careers centred around sustainability.

This indicates an increasing recognition of environmental concerns and the role finance professionals play in tackling these issues.

Confidence in employability remains robust, with 62% of respondents anticipating a shift to new roles in the next two years.

However, 51% of participants are still engaged in full-time office work, despite a strong inclination for hybrid working arrangements expressed by over 76% of those surveyed.

Concerns regarding diversity were emphasised, with 45% of respondents noting that their organisations focus more on specific aspects of diversity than others.

The acknowledgment of older employees emerged as a significant issue in this regard.

The ongoing cost-of-living crisis is a primary worry, with 41% of respondents expecting a salary increase of at least 11% in the upcoming year.

Additionally, half of the participants feel they are not developing the essential skills needed for future workplace requirements.

While indicators of mental health show slight improvement, challenges remain, with 52% agreeing that work-related pressures adversely affect their mental health.

The trend of ‘side hustles’ is becoming more prevalent, with 43% of Gen Z respondents and 39% across all age groups involved in supplementary employment.

Finally, accountancy is still regarded as a valuable entry point to global career prospects, with 72% of Gen Z and 52% of Gen Y respondents expressing a desire to seek job opportunities abroad.

ACCA Skills, Sectors and Technology global head Jamie Lyon said: “Our 2025 data continues to show a workplace in transition, but one of the exciting themes emerging this year is how accountancy training can be a brilliant early career pathway for building entrepreneurial skills.

“There’s no doubt this in part reflects how career ambitions continue to transform at work.”