For years, South Africa experienced a steady outflow of its top Chartered Accountants, as international firms eagerly snapped up the best new talent. But for the first time in a decade, that dynamic has shifted — and for South African employers looking to hire CAs, this presents a rare opportunity.
Why more CAs are staying in South Africa
Traditionally, global players like PwC, Deloitte, EY, and KPMG absorbed a large share of newly qualified South African CAs. Global economic shifts and reduced overseas demand have reversed that trend, creating an unusually deep local talent pool.
<25%
of the typical number of South African CAs secured UK roles in 2025, compared to prior years
Deeper pool
More top-tier CAs available locally than at any point in the past decade
Narrow window
When international demand recovers, the best candidates will leave again
Here is what has changed in the international market:
- Slower international hiring: Major UK and EU firms have pulled back on recruitment due to market uncertainty.
- Fewer roles abroad: Economic uncertainty and reduced demand in the UK mean fewer auditors are leaving their roles — resulting in fewer vacancies for newly qualified South African CAs.
- Smaller outbound flow: As a result, less than a quarter of the typical number of South African CAs have secured UK roles for 2025.
What this means for South African businesses:
- More top-tier CAs are available locally right now.
- There is less competition from overseas firms for the same candidates.
- This is a short-term hiring opportunity — but one that will not last forever.
The window is open, but it is narrow
If market conditions abroad improve, demand for South African CAs will surge again. The best candidates will leave. But right now, companies that move quickly can secure high-performing CAs before they are hired by competitors, and fill critical finance roles without inflated salaries or bidding wars.
The hiring challenge: it is not volume, it is speed and fit
Having more candidates available does not automatically make hiring easier. The challenge for most businesses is identifying the right candidate quickly, before a competitor does. This is where specialist recruitment makes the difference — not in generating volume, but in surfacing the right fit fast.
Blue Recruiting's CA-focused platform allows employers to view candidate video profiles, filter by skillset and experience, and assess candidates at a glance — reducing hiring time significantly and ensuring you do not miss out on top talent.
Act now: the best newly qualified CAs will be off the market soon
The best CAs will always be in demand. Right now, they are here — qualified, available, and looking to build careers locally. This is the time to hire. Do not miss the chance to secure high-calibre finance talent before the global market reopens and the window closes.