Struggling to Attract Affordable Finance Talent? Here’s What Finance Assistants in Rochdale Really Cost
Hiring Finance Assistants in Rochdale is increasingly competitive as local businesses battle rising salary expectations, demand for flexible working, and a shrinking talent pool. Whether you’re hiring a junior finance professional or trying to promote internally, understanding current salary benchmarks is crucial for staying competitive without overpaying.
This Rochdale-specific salary survey covers Finance Assistant roles and nearby levels to help you budget accurately, retain talent, and compete for the best candidates.
Finance Assistant Salary Data – Rochdale (2025)
| Role | Salary Range | Most Common Salary Band | Comments |
| Accounts Administrator (entry-level) | £21,000 – £24,000 | £22,000 – £23,000 | Entry route into finance teams. Often includes invoice processing and general ledger support. |
| Finance Assistant | £24,000 – £28,000 | £25,000 – £26,500 | Strong demand for candidates with AAT Level 3+ and Excel skills. Experience with Sage or Xero desirable. |
| Assistant Accountant | £28,000 – £32,000 | £29,000 – £31,000 | Typically AAT-qualified or studying ACCA/CIMA. Supports month-end processes and reporting. |
Variable Pay & Bonuses
- Bonus Potential: Bonuses are rare at this level but some SMEs offer £500-£1,000 annual performance bonuses.
- Study Support: Increasingly offered as a perk, covering AAT or early ACCA/CIMA exams.
- Hybrid Working: 2-3 days office-based is becoming standard for finance teams in Greater Manchester.
Benefits & Perks Overview
- Pension Contributions: Most employers stick to statutory minimum (3%), but larger firms in Rochdale may offer 5%-6%.
- Annual Leave: 22-25 days plus bank holidays is typical.
- Private Healthcare: Rare but offered by some larger businesses.
- Flexible Hours: Growing trend, especially for businesses competing with Manchester-based employers.
Hiring Trends & Market Demand
- Demand is rising sharply for candidates with strong systems experience (Sage/Xero/QuickBooks).
- The REC reports a sustained shortage of skilled finance support staff nationwide, pushing up salaries even in smaller towns like Rochdale.
- Candidates with hybrid working experience are being prioritised, even for traditionally office-based roles.
Recruitment Challenges Employers Face
- Counteroffers and candidates withdrawing late due to more competitive Manchester roles are common.
- Job hopping is increasing – candidates expect progression or pay increases every 18-24 months.
- Local candidates with AAT Level 3+ are often in multiple interview processes simultaneously.
Future Salary Predictions & Market Outlook
- Expect 3-5% salary growth in 2024-2025 driven by demand and cost-of-living pressures.
- Hybrid working will remain a key differentiator—companies offering it will attract stronger candidate pools.
- Study support and clear progression routes will be vital in retaining talent beyond the 2-year mark.
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Where this data comes from
This salary survey was compiled using data from:
- Reed Salary Guides
- Totaljobs Rochdale Market Data
- REC Labour Market Tracker – March 2024
- UK Government Labour Market Statistics
According to the REC, “demand for accounting support roles remains elevated as businesses rebuild post-pandemic, increasing the need for skilled finance professionals in regional markets like Rochdale.”
