Eight out of ten accountants surveyed anticipate a pay rise this year, according to the recruiter's Pay & Bonus Survey, which interviewed 872 professionals on remuneration expectations, readiness to move jobs and confidence about finding a new role.

While 79% are expecting a salary hike this year, most believe the increase will be modest with 51% saying they expect an increase of between 1-3% of base salary, with only one in five anticipating 4% to 10%.

Confidence is highest in the south east (89% expecting a pay rise) and London (85%), above the Midlands and North, where 71% are expecting to receive more money in 2015.

The survey shows two-thirds of respondents are also holding out for a bonus, with over a third seeking up to 10% of base salary.

There are also indications that accountants who feel their pay packet does not mirror their work contribution are prepared to make a move. A third (35%) of accountants are already looking for a new role, the survey reveals, with a further 22% planning to start their search within the next twelve months. 

Overall, accountants are largely positive about their career prospects, with three times as many confident of their ability to find a new role as not. 

Andrew Setchell, director of accountancy recruitment at Robert Walters, said: 'The fact that many accountants are expecting a pay rise and bonus this year is a strong signal of market optimism, and indeed we expect demand for high quality accounting staff to increase this year. 

'Given the strength of the economy and the level of confidence around job numbers, we expect to see many accountants on the move this year.’