At the start of the year there was cautious optimism around the industry but due to challenges that have been well documented, many employers have had to scale back operations, with some reducing headcount instead of expanding.
In our conversations with business leaders and candidates, it’s clear that, despite these headwinds, demand for experienced accounting and finance professionals remains resilient. If anything, the shifts we’re seeing are reshaping what “in-demand” talent really looks like. The HighView team has been actively supporting our clients on a wide range of accounting and finance searches. And while each mandate is unique, a few themes consistently rise to the top.
1. System Implementation & the Rise of AI Dashboards
It’s no longer enough to simply close the books. Finance leaders are expected to deliver insights in real time, and that means systems matter. Whether it’s implementing Yardi, JD Edwards, or NetSuite, or layering in PowerBI and AI dashboard, companies are putting a premium on accountants who can bridge finance and technology. The ability to configure, integrate, and actually make sense of these tools is separating top candidates from the pack.
2. IPP Experience Moves From “Nice” to “Need”
The complexity of today’s ownership and financing structures makes investment property portfolio (IPP) experience essential. We see it in every mid-to senior-level role we recruit: employers want professionals who know their way around consolidations, joint ventures, and investor reporting. For candidates looking to grow their careers in real estate, early exposure to IPP work is quickly becoming non-negotiable.
3. Project Experience Still Matters
Yes, new developments have slowed. But project accounting skills, budget tracking, cost reporting, supporting financing processes, remain in demand. Why? Because these skills are transferable across corporate, development, and investment functions. Employers value accountants who understand how dollars flow through a project, regardless of the market cycle. It’s a perspective you can’t pick up in pure corporate roles alone.
4. Flexibility & Hybrid Work as a Talent Magnet
One trend that comes up in almost every conversation: flexibility. Accountants know they can do much of their work from anywhere, and hybrid has become the expectation. The sweet spot for most seems to be two to three days in the office. Employers who embrace this model have a clear edge in attracting and retaining top talent.
Looking Ahead
Accounting and finance may not make the loudest headlines in Canadian real estate, but they remain the backbone of the industry. The firms that recognize this, and evolve their hiring strategies to reflect these realities will be best positioned for growth when the market does rebound.
At HighView, we see this firsthand every day: candidates with the right mix of technical expertise, system fluency, and adaptable project experience are the ones who stand out.
If your organization is planning ahead or actively hiring in accounting and finance, let’s connect. We’d be glad to share what we’re seeing in the market and help you secure the right talent for the year ahead.
Co-founder of HighView Partners, Nicola brings over twenty years of experience in real estate recruitment across Canada. Nicola has worked with over 100 real estate employers and has successfully executed over 1000 searches throughout her career. Her focus on the real estate industry means she has built relationships with current and future real estate leaders. Her passion for connecting people who perform has created exceptional results and trusted relationships.
Nicola holds a degree in Psychology and a diploma in Life Coaching, and is a member of the Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC). Her professional opinion has been featured in Canadian Property Management Magazine, and she has worked closely with BOMA. Nicola has also been a guest speaker at various industry events where she shares her expertise in attraction, retention and recruitment. Affiliated with Toronto CREW, Nicola is an advocate for women in real estate and supports various committees.
Outside of work, Nicola volunteers in her local community and supports several local charities. She enjoys travelling, reading, cooking (with a glass of red wine), and spending time with her family and friends.
Based in Vancouver, Richard leads HighView’s recruitment and talent search practice on the West Coast. Richard has been connecting people who perform in Canadian real estate since 2010. The industry regards him as one of its most diligent and professional recruiters. Originally from the UK and now a proud Canadian citizen, Richard has a far-reaching professional network, having also spent time in Sydney, Australia. Richard embodies HighView’s values and is resolute in his commitment to do the right thing by his clients and candidates.
Richard holds a BA in Criminology and International Politics. Over the past decade, Richard is proud to have helped hundreds of real estate professionals move forward in their careers. He is dedicated to staying on top of market news and industry trends, and is a familiar face at real estate associations, including NAIOP, BOMA, UDI, ICSC, and ULI.
Outside of work, Richard lives a healthy and active lifestyle. He thrives on setting new challenges and personal goals. From competitive road cycling, running and cross-country skiing, he can’t say no to a little friendly competition
