Accounting and finance vacancies were up by 24% last month compared to the same period last year, according to research by professional recruitment specialists Badenoch & Clark.

The firm's July Talent Spotlight survey found a 14.3% rise in overall vacancies in the sector. Contract vacancies have increased by 19.2% this month and 51.9% compared to the same period last year, which Badenoch & Clark says is evidence of a new 'try before you buy' approach to accounting recruitment.

There is also a change in the types of skills in demand according to Peter Howarth, who is operations director, accounting & finance, Badenoch & Clark. He says: 'Audit managers are finding themselves in demand for senior reporting roles as employers ditch a "like for like" recruitment strategy in favour of higher levels of understanding of reporting standards and technical issues. This is particularly the case in PLCs and larger businesses as they seek to become more robust in their reporting.'

Lean manufacturing experience is another sought-after element on an accountant's cv as manufacturers prepare for growth in an improving economy. There has also been an upsurge in public sector accounting and finance vacancies, with double the number of roles on offer in the NHS, local government, housing and charity sectors over the past year.