Discover the Salary Guide
The world of finance and accounting in the Netherlands is changing rapidly. Companies are strengthening their digital capabilities, seeking better insight into financial performance, and looking for ways to build long-term resilience.
In this blog, we provide an overview of the key trends and insights from the Robert Half Salary Guide 2026 for finance and accounting in the Netherlands.
Finance as a driving force behind digital transformation
Where finance teams were once mainly responsible for reporting and compliance, they now play a central role in strategic decision-making. Finance is a key player in digital transformation, automation, and risk management.
Demand is growing for professionals who not only understand numbers, but also know how to use technology to improve business processes. Expertise in data analysis, AI-driven reporting solutions, and smart budgeting tools is especially sought after. Companies want financial experts who can bridge strategy and technology — people who translate insights into action and contribute to organizational growth.
Growing demand for future-focused financial talent
According to our research, nearly 40% of Dutch companies plan to expand their finance and accounting teams. The focus is on controlling, accounting, financial planning & analysis (FP&A), and risk & compliance.
These roles are essential for growth, transparency, and efficiency. At the same time, employers report increasing difficulty in finding the right people. Professionals with knowledge of digitalization, regulation, and data analysis therefore have an excellent position to advance their careers.
Specialized skills lead to higher salaries
Labor market shortages continue to motivate companies to pay more for candidates with rare expertise. More than two-thirds of Dutch hiring managers in finance and accounting say they offer higher salaries to professionals with specialized skills.
Knowledge of data analytics, financial modeling, regulatory filings, and financial analysis is particularly valued. For employers, this means that investing in internal training and talent development is a smart strategy to retain knowledge. For professionals, it opens the door to more growth opportunities — and better compensation.
Development and upskilling take center stage
Naar de Salarisgids 2025
Finance professionals are not standing still. Most financial specialists in the Netherlands want to further develop skills that align closely with the digital transformation of finance. The most popular areas for development include financial planning & analysis (FP&A), financial modeling, and the use of AI-driven reporting and automation tools.
Those who continue to invest in these skills strengthen their position in a rapidly evolving job market.
Flexibility remains important, but compensation remains a key factor
Although hybrid work often remains the norm, the number of professionals willing to return to the office (at least partially) is increasing — especially when a clear financial incentive is offered.
Research shows that more than 70% of finance and accounting professionals are willing to work entirely on-site if they are compensated accordingly. This also means that 30% would not return to full-time office work, even with financial incentives. This highlights the importance of a healthy balance between remote and on-site work.
Employers adjusting their workplace models would do well to recognize these expectations and align their compensation strategies accordingly. A transparent and market-based approach helps maintain talent motivation.
Where is the highest demand for financial talent?
Demand for financial professionals is high across multiple sectors. Companies in logistics, business services, manufacturing, food, and energy are actively seeking talent.
It is the case for both for temporary roles such as accounting clerks, AR/AP accountants, or controllers - and for permanent positions such as accountants, controllers, and finance managers.
What will you earn in finance and accounting in 2026?
Visit the Robert Half Salary Guide
Your salary in finance and accounting depends on your specific role, experience, and region. Whether you are at the start of your career or ready for your next step, understanding salary trends can help you make more informed decisions about your future.
More career tips? Visit the Robert Half Salary Guide 2026.
