Could Ireland claim a top 20 global financial centre spot by 2025?

'Talent' is one of the key action measures in the plan, aimed at ensuring there is a pipeline of professionals who are supported and ready to address the changing needs of the financial services sector, including emerging skills gaps. Working alongside other initiatives, such as Ireland’s National Skills Strategy 2025, businesses and educational institutions have a framework that will enable them to work together and build a diverse finance talent pool.

These professionals aren't only drawn to the country by the prospect of building a successful finance career, they are more interested in a meaningful career. In 2020, 1,400 professionals upskilled in sustainable finance, and it's projected that figure will consistently rise. The industry is only beginning to see the potential of the sustainable finance market and how investments are contributing to a climate-neutral economy.

Becoming a centre of excellence for ESG Bonds

Furthermore, the strategy is a roadmap for the country to become known as a centre of excellence for ESG bonds. These bonds fund projects with positive environmental, social or governance outcomes and are topping the agenda for more and more investors across Ireland and further afield. Though the shift in focus towards more responsible investment philosophies and practices was seen before COVID-19, the pandemic has turbocharged the transition.

While it might have been thought of as a niche years ago, more and more ESG trends are shaping the investment market, and no nation can ignore sustainable investing. The jury might still be out on whether ESG bonds are more profitable, but there is no denying that this new way of investing is often less volatile and less susceptible to fraud, as well as being associated with a lower cost of capital.

Learn more about how Marks Sattin can help you

We're a leading financial services recruitment agency, with offices across Europe, including a committed team based in Dublin. Our unrivalled experience sourcing talent in the financial services sector means there's no team better equipped to help you find your next accountant, financial analyst or CFO. It's our goal to show our clients and candidates that location is no barrier to finding the perfect person or role. Whatever your needs, our team will work with you to find the best result.

Learn more about financial services recruitment at Marks Sattin and how we're committed to developing careers and connecting companies with talented professionals.