Fintech Growth and Rising AI Investment Drive Transformation in UK Hiring for Internal Audit

The UK internal audit job market is rebounding sharply in early 2025, driven by regulatory pressures from the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) and updates to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). In January 2025, vacancies jumped 70% month-on-month, reflecting firms’ urgent push to strengthen compliance. London’s share fell to 46% as financial institutions expanded risk functions across regional hubs. With enforcement tightening and corporate liability rising, demand for internal auditors is expected to continue growing throughout 2025, reversing 2024’s hiring slowdown.

Internal Audit remains a critical function

England and Wales’s accounting and internal audit job market is undergoing a notable shift in early 2025, driven by regulatory enforcement and economic recovery efforts. While Internal Audit vacancies declined 28% from 2023 to 2024, the sector remains critical, comprising 13% of total accounting roles in 2024. A sharp rebound began in January 2025, with 90 new vacancies in the first two months, reflecting banks’ focus on strengthening internal controls. The 70% month-on-month increase in January highlights growing demand, while a 44% rise from July to August 2024 suggests seasonal hiring trends. With compliance pressures rising, demand for internal auditors will remain strong throughout 2025.

Regional Shift in UK Internal Audit Hiring

London’s internal audit job market is experiencing a notable decline, with its share dropping to 53% in early 2025, down from previous years. A 33% year-on-year fall in vacancies highlights shifting hiring strategies, as financial institutions expand compliance functions beyond the capital.

 The South is emerging as a major hiring hub, with a 92% surge in vacancies, now holding 18% of the market. This trend reflects a broader decentralisation in the sector, driven by cost-saving measures and regulatory pressures. As hiring patterns evolve, regional financial hubs are increasingly becoming focal points for internal audit recruitment.

Ben Harris, Associate Director, Morgan McKinley commented: “The surge in internal audit hiring, particularly outside London, highlights a fundamental shift in how financial institutions approach compliance and risk management. With mounting regulatory pressures and economic uncertainty, firms are prioritising robust internal controls and governance. The sharp increase in contract and permanent roles reflects the growing need for experienced audit professionals to navigate evolving corporate liability regulations.”

Surge in Internal Audit Hiring at Evlyn Partners Signals Strategic Shift

Analysing internal audit hiring trends among key financial institutions reveals shifting organisational priorities. Evelyn Partners posted 60 internal audit vacancies in 2024.. This surge may indicate preparations for a potential sale, as enhanced internal controls bolster financial transparency and regulatory compliance. Strengthening its audit function positions Evelyn Partners as a more attractive acquisition target.

In contrast, Goldman Sachs saw a decline in internal audit job postings, down to 34. This aligns with its strategic investment in audit automation and operational efficiencies, reflecting broader industry trends in compliance innovation.

 Top 10 Companies, Internal Audit, Banking Sector, UK, 2023-25 (Jan-Feb)