
Red, White and Boost: How UK Recruitment will Benefit Post-US Election
The dust has barely settled on the 2024 US election, but its impact is already rippling across the globe. Whenever there’s a political shakeup in the world’s largest economy, international markets feel the tremors – and this time is no different.
Yet, within the uncertainty lies an exciting opportunity. Today, I want to explore how the aftershocks of the US election might play out and why I believe the UK financial services recruitment market is entering a period of unprecedented promise. With shifting US policies, a growing appetite for European stability and the UK’s unique role in the global economy, we could be looking at a surge in both talent and investment heading our way.
Shifting US policies drive global firms to seek stability in the UK
The recent US election has brought a fresh wave of economic uncertainty. Talk of sweeping regulatory changes and tighter fiscal policies is prompting many global firms to rethink their long-term plans.
It’s not a stretch to suggest that some will look to the UK as a sanctuary of stability, particularly for expansion opportunities. This is already reflected in the UK’s financial sector, which saw a record-breaking 380 M&A deals in 2024 – the highest annual volume since 2012. Such activity highlights the confidence global firms have in the UK’s regulatory and economic environment, reinforcing its reputation as a fertile ground for investment and growth
Stabilising supply chains: The UK’s financial edge
Global firms are increasingly prioritising the diversification of their operations given the unpredictability of American trade and supply chain policies.
For businesses aiming to localise and stabilise their supply chains, the UK stands out as a natural choice, offering a strong infrastructure, easy access to European and global markets, and government-backed initiatives like freeports and tax incentives to attract foreign investment and bolster financial hubs.
This is the kind of stability companies crave in uncertain times, and it’s putting all eyes on the UK financial sector. Complex supply chain investments demand expertise in trade finance, infrastructure funding and risk analysis – all areas where the UK excels. Add to that a likely rush in private equity and M&A activity, and you’ve got a landscape brimming with potential for senior-level finance professionals who can navigate these challenges and opportunities.
For recruitment firms, this is an advantage waiting to be seized. The growing demand for specialised talent in logistics-focused finance roles is set to shake up hiring strategies. The firms that act now to align their recruitment efforts with this trend will be the ones leading the charge as global supply chains increasingly pivot towards the UK.
Tightening US borders may unlock a talent goldmine for the UK
US immigration policies are simultaneously tightening, especially around highly skilled visas, opening a door for the UK to position itself as the go-to destination for top international talent.
Highly skilled professionals in finance, wealth management and investment are looking for markets where they can grow their careers and thrive, without running into endless visa roadblocks. And that’s precisely what the UK offers, with its points-based immigration policy that prioritises highly skilled professionals, and streamlined visa routes like the Global Talent Visa.
Financial firms must ready themselves if they want to capitalise on this talent goldmine. Here are some strategies I see working best:
1. Offer competitive, globalised compensation packages
UK financial firms need to benchmark salaries against global standards and incorporate elements that appeal to international professionals, such as tax-efficient benefits, relocation allowances and child education subsidies.
2. Leverage technology to support hybrid and remote working models
With many international professionals seeking flexibility, cutting-edge collaboration tools and remote work options are the essential pull factors that attract candidates, especially those who have cold feet about relocating full-time.
3. Invest in leadership development and training programmes
If international professionals are going to uproot their lives, they need to know it’ll be worth it. Beyond paychecks, they want real opportunities to advance their careers.
Offering executive coaching or leadership development programmes sends a clear message: this isn’t just a job, it’s a launchpad for your future. These career development pathways will make your firm the obvious choice for ambitious global talent.
4. Show that you’re a future player
The best international talent isn’t looking for a place to tread water. Your firm must demonstrate that it’s not just keeping pace but leading the charge into the future. This means embracing innovations like AI-driven technologies, and showcasing your leadership in areas like ESG., so that you cultivate an environment where top professionals can see a future.
As UK financial services prepares for growth, firms need to think about who they’ve got steering the ship
Several financial services sectors are already poised for growth in the UK, a direct result of post-election uncertainty:
Fintech and digital transformation: As US tech policies become more insular, international innovators in fintech and digital strategy are looking to markets where their work can thrive. The UK’s regulatory sandbox and forward-thinking approach make it an attractive hub.
Renewable energy finance: The UK’s bold investment in green energy, like the government’s £8.3bn funding boost, cements its place as an ESG leader and a hotbed for asset managers and financiers in this space.
Asset management: As US markets grow more volatile, the UK is emerging as a go-to destination for international capital. Professionals skilled in managing diverse portfolios are in high demand to help firms capitalise on this influx.
But no firm can capitalise on these growth opportunities properly without the right leaders at the helm. For recruitment firms, this is where the real challenge lies: identifying leaders who can not only weather the storm but chart new courses in uncharted waters. It’s a tall order, but it’s also an incredibly exciting one.
Hanover can help you thrive in this new era of opportunity
Whether it’s cashing in on global talent, bolstering supply chains or driving investment into local financial hubs, the outcome of the 2024 US election has created a landscape ripe with opportunity for both UK and global financial firms.
If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that the firms who act decisively today – who invest in the right people and the right strategies – will emerge as the winners of tomorrow.
At Hanover, we’re not just recruiters, but partners in your transformation. We connect you with the visionary talent your firm needs to thrive in this new era, while helping you thrive amid evolving mark demands. Contact me directly to see how we can support your goals.