Finance and accounting salaries aren't growing evenly in 2027. Rather than raising compensation across the board, many employers are reserving larger salary increases for professionals with expertise in areas such as AI, financial systems, compliance and data analytics.
Drawing on exclusive data from the 2027 Canada Salary Guide From Robert Half, this article highlights 8 higher-paying finance and accounting roles in Canada, along with the skills, certifications and industries shaping hiring in 2027.
2027 Salary trends for finance and accounting jobs
Specialized skills command higher salaries
With skills gaps leading to project delays and even cancellations, today’s hiring managers need to offer competitive salaries to attract and retain candidates with the skills needed to complete priority initiatives.
As finance and accounting teams continue to adopt AI-enabled tools, automation and advanced financial systems, employers are placing greater value on professionals who can combine technical expertise with strategic thinking. According to the 2027 Salary Guide, 54 per cent of finance and accounting hiring managers are offering salaries above their planned ranges to secure top talent, with 82 per cent citing specialized expertise as a reason.
Employers continue to seek candidates with expertise in areas such as financial modelling, forecasting, data analytics, regulatory reporting and technical accounting, along with experience using ERP platforms including Microsoft Dynamics 365, Oracle NetSuite and SAP S/4HANA. Professionals who can combine these technical capabilities with sound business judgment and the ability to validate AI-assisted financial processes are often well positioned for higher-paying opportunities.
8 higher-paying finance and accounting roles
The following roles represent some of the higher-paying positions in Canada's finance and accounting fields for 2027. While compensation depends on factors such as experience, location and organization size, these positions often command higher starting salaries because of their strategic responsibilities and the specialized expertise required.
Chief Risk Officer – Financial Services: National midpoint starting salary of $244,500
Chief Risk Officers (CROs) lead enterprise-wide risk management strategies to protect organizations from financial, operational and reputational threats.
Typical duties include:
Developing and implementing comprehensive risk management frameworksIdentifying, assessing and monitoring key risks across business unitsLeading internal teams in risk analysis, reporting and mitigation planning
Chief Financial Officer: National midpoint starting salary of $231,750
The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a pivotal C-Suite executive who serves as a strategic partner to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Board of Directors, orchestrating all aspects of an organization's financial health and strategic growth.
Typical duties include:
Developing and executing the overall financial strategy, including budgeting, forecasting, long-range planning and capital allocationOverseeing all financial operations, including accounting, treasury, tax, payroll and internal controlsEnsuring the accuracy, integrity and timely reporting of financial statements in full compliance with Canadian accounting standards (ASPE/IFRS) and other regulatory bodies
Treasurer: National midpoint starting salary of $199,500
The Treasurer role requires excellent communication, technological, problem-solving and analytical abilities. Candidates for treasurer usually need at least 10 years of professional experience in finance and accounting jobs, and public accounting experience is a plus.
Typical treasurer duties:
Establishing and maintaining relationships with commercial bankers, allowing open discussion on terms of available financingResearching and analyzing financing options and providing recommendationsStructuring debt arrangements
Chief Compliance Officer: National midpoint starting salary of $194,500
The Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the organization's adherence to complex financial services regulations within Canada.
Typical duties include:
Developing, implementing and maintaining the overall compliance frameworks and policiesOverseeing and monitoring adherence to Canadian financial services regulations (e.g., OSFI, IIROC, MFDA)Identifying, assessing and mitigating compliance risks associated with financial products and operations
Managing Director: National midpoint starting salary of $192,750
A Managing Director is a senior executive responsible for leading a significant business unit, division or strategic function within an organization. This role drives strategic direction, oversees operational execution, and is accountable for achieving substantial business growth and financial performance.
Typical duties include:
Developing and executing the strategic vision and annual operating plans for their assigned areaOverseeing all aspects of operations, ensuring efficiency, quality and profitabilityDriving business development and fostering key relationships with clients, partners, or stakeholders
Vice President of Banking and Financial Markets: National midpoint starting salary of $177,750
A Vice President (VP) of Banking and Financial Markets is a senior executive responsible for leading and overseeing strategic initiatives, operations and client relationships within the banking and broader financial markets sector.
Typical duties include:
Developing and executing strategies to grow market share and revenue within banking or financial marketsManaging and expanding high-value client relationships, providing expert financial solutions and adviceOverseeing the development and launch of new financial products or services
Vice President of Finance: National midpoint starting salary of $174,750
The Vice President (VP) of Finance is a senior executive responsible for the strategic oversight and operational excellence of an organization's financial health.
Typical duties include:
Leading the annual budgeting, forecasting and long-range financial planning processesOverseeing all financial reporting, ensuring accuracy, integrity and strict adherence to Canadian accounting standards (ASPE/IFRS)Managing treasury functions, including cash flow, working capital and foreign exchange exposure
Tax Director – Corporate Accounting: National midpoint starting salary of $174,000
Tax Directors must be highly motivated and take the initiative to stay up-to-date with industry and government regulations through continuing education and subscriptions to professional journals.
Typical duties include:
Reviewing various corporate tax returns and year-end tax accruals, estimating income taxesConducting research and planning according to current tax law, and advising senior management on the tax impact of current and proposed company activities and transactionsIdentifying ways to minimize the organization’s tax liability each year in accordance with current tax laws
Pay-boosting certifications
Professional certifications continue to be an important way for finance and accounting professionals to demonstrate technical expertise and leadership capabilities. Depending on the role, employers may value credentials such as the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) designations.
Industries with strong demand for finance and accounting talent
Demand for finance and accounting professionals remains strong across industries managing business growth, complex financial reporting and ongoing transformation initiatives.
According to the Salary Guide, hiring demand remains strong across:
ConstructionFinancial services/insurance Insurance ManufacturingMining/resourcesProfessional services
Top skills and areas of experience in 2026
Competitive salaries remain important, but they're only one part of attracting and retaining top finance talent. Many professionals also evaluate the overall rewards package when considering new opportunities, including paid time off, remote and hybrid work options, flexible schedules, bonuses, and profit-sharing opportunities.
Organizations that pair competitive compensation with a strong total rewards strategy are often better positioned to attract experienced professionals in today's competitive hiring market.
Whether you're hiring finance talent or planning your next career move, understanding which skills, certifications and roles are commanding higher compensation can help you make more informed decisions.
Explore the full 2027 Canada Salary Guide From Robert Half for additional salary benchmarks, hiring insights and compensation trends.
