By Ringside Talent Partners
May 17, 2024
In recent years, multi-billion dollar fintech companies have taken the accounting and finance industry by storm, attracting top talent with their innovative approach, fast-paced environments, and attractive compensation packages.
As a result, mid-sized banks are facing increasing competition when it comes to hiring the best and brightest in the field. However, by adapting their strategies and leveraging their unique strengths, mid-sized banks can remain competitive and continue to attract top talent.
The Allure of Fintech
Fintech companies have gained popularity among job seekers for several reasons:
- Innovation: Fintech firms are known for their cutting-edge technology and disruptive business models, which appeal to professionals who want to be at the forefront of the industry.
- Flexibility: Many fintech companies offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options and flexible hours, which can be attractive to employees seeking a better work-life balance. 78% of fintech companies are “fully flexible”, meaning they are either fully remote or allow employees to choose when they come in, while only 18% of traditional banks were “fully flexible”.
- Compensation: Fintech firms often offer competitive salaries and benefits packages, including stock options and performance-based bonuses, which can be hard for traditional banks to match. One key reason for the higher average pay in fintech is that traditional banks have large back-office operations where salaries tend to be lower, whereas fintech firms are more focused on higher-paying technical and innovation roles.
How Mid-Sized Banks Can Adapt
Despite the challenges posed by fintech companies, mid-sized banks have several advantages they can leverage to attract and retain top talent:
- Stability: Mid-sized banks can emphasize their stability and long-standing reputation in the industry, which can be appealing to job seekers who value job security and a more predictable career path.
- Culture: By fostering a positive and collaborative work culture, mid-sized banks can differentiate themselves from the fast-paced and sometimes high-pressure environments of fintech firms.
- Professional Development: Mid-sized banks can invest in employee training and development programs, offering opportunities for career growth and advancement within the organization.
- Targeted Compensation: While mid-sized banks may not be able to match the overall compensation packages offered by fintech companies, they can focus on offering competitive salaries and benefits for specific roles or skill sets that are in high demand.
- Partnerships and Innovation: Mid-sized banks can partner with fintech companies or invest in their own digital transformation initiatives to stay at the forefront of technological advancements in the industry, making them more attractive to tech-savvy job seekers.
The Rise of Fintech and the Changing Landscape of the Accounting and Finance Industries
The fintech revolution has forced traditional financial institutions, including mid-sized banks, to reevaluate their strategies for attracting and retaining top talent. By embracing change, focusing on their strengths, and adapting to the evolving needs and preferences of job seekers, mid-sized banks can remain competitive in the face of fintech disruption.
Ultimately, the key to success lies in striking a balance between the stability and tradition offered by mid-sized banks and the innovation and flexibility associated with fintech companies. By finding this balance and effectively communicating their unique value proposition to potential employees, mid-sized banks can continue to attract and retain the top talent necessary to thrive in the ever-changing accounting and finance industries.
Ringside specializes in connecting Accounting & Finance professionals with the right job opportunities in companies ranging from startups to large organizations. We are recognized as a leader in the industry and offers a wide range of services to meet your needs.