Confidence has returned to the jobs market as a third of accountants are on the look out for a new role, while more than four out of five are confident their current position is not in danger of being cut.

Canvassing the attitudes of 1,500 employers and employees, the REED Finance 2013 Salary and Market Insight found 39% of UK finance workers were now actively seeking their next job, as 32% of accountants surveyed were doing likewise.

The report found 83% of accountants felt confident that their job was secure and coupled with the revelation that there were now 32% more positions available than in January 2010, the indication is that the UK workforce is becoming increasingly more positive about the economic outlook.

Peter Sherlock, divisional director, at REED Finance, said: 'The jobs market is a good indication of the mood of business and the increase we have seen in finance job opportunities over the past year indicates confidence in the sector. Those at the head of financial functions are feeling increasingly confident to invest in talent and it is encouraging that this has now translated into confidence for workers to look for new roles too.'

Noting that 61% of employers are worried about staff within their accountancy function moving on to seek better opportunities, Sherlock added: 'While it is clear some finance sector employers are concerned about losing talent, it is important to remember that a buoyant jobs market presents opportunity. Employers wanting to hold on to talent should ensure they are investing in staff - through training, personal development and promotion opportunities - and those that are looking to recruit can be confident that the available talent pool has widened.'