There was a 70% surge in internal audit UK vacancies in January 2025, according to a poll by Morgan McKinley and Vacancysoft.
This jump is being driven by regulatory pressures from the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) and updates to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA).
And, with enforcement tightening and corporate liability rising, demand for internal auditors is expected to continue growing throughout 2025, reversing 2024’s hiring slowdown.
London’s internal audit job market is experiencing a notable decline, with its share dropping to 53% in early 2025, down from previous years. A 33% year-on-year fall in vacancies highlights shifting hiring strategies, as financial institutions expand compliance functions beyond the capital.
Ben Harris, Associate Director, Morgan McKinley said:”The surge in internal audit hiring, particularly outside London, highlights a fundamental shift in how financial institutions approach compliance and risk management. With mounting regulatory pressures and economic uncertainty, firms are prioritising robust internal controls and governance. The sharp increase in contract and permanent roles reflects the growing need for experienced audit professionals to navigate evolving corporate liability regulations.”
