The first quarter of 2026 has set a strong and confident tone across the Northern tax market. From Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool through to Edinburgh and Glasgow, there is a clear sense of momentum building.
Hiring activity has been consistent across all key regions, and importantly, this does not feel like a short-term spike. Firms are investing with intent, backing their people, strengthening their regional presence and planning for long-term growth.
What is particularly encouraging is the resilience of the market. Even against a backdrop of global uncertainty, demand for high-quality tax professionals remains steady. For candidates, this creates a market that offers both stability and genuine opportunity.
A Market Full of Opportunity
Across both the North of England and Scotland, the current landscape is defined by choice.
Large independent firms continue to perform strongly, while Big 4, Top 10 and national firms are investing heavily in their regional teams. At the same time, many regional practices are expanding their capabilities, particularly in specialist areas.
This mix is creating a competitive but opportunity-rich environment. Whether you are looking for progression, a change in specialism or a different type of firm, there are more options available than we have seen in recent years.
Private equity investment and ongoing market consolidation are playing a key role in driving this activity. These trends are not only supporting growth within firms, but are also creating movement across the talent pool, keeping the market buoyant.
Where Demand Is Strongest
While opportunities exist across the board, several areas have stood out during Q1 and continue to shape hiring conversations:
Corporate Tax
Corporate tax remains the standout area across the Northern market.
Demand has been consistently strong over the past 18 to 24 months, particularly at Manager and Senior Manager level. Firms of all sizes are investing heavily, with compliance specialists especially sought after.
Despite earlier expectations that technology might reduce demand in this space, the opposite has proven true. The increasing complexity of tax regulation means firms are placing even greater value on professionals who can combine technical accuracy with commercial awareness.
Indirect Tax
Indirect tax is following a similar pattern of sustained demand.
Opportunities remain strong across both advisory and compliance roles. While advisory experience continues to be highly valued, candidates from compliance backgrounds are also in a strong position, with a wide range of roles available.
A noticeable trend across both the North and Scotland is the continued investment in indirect tax teams. More firms are building out this capability, giving candidates greater choice and a broader range of career paths.
Senior Leadership
At the senior end, Director-level hiring has been a key feature of the Q1 market.
Firms are looking for individuals who can go beyond technical delivery. Leadership, commercial thinking and the ability to shape and grow teams are all in high demand.
This trend is consistent across corporate tax, indirect tax and private client, reflecting a clear focus on long-term growth and succession planning.
A Shift Towards Qualified Talent
Another clear trend across the market is the increasing focus on fully qualified professionals.
Part-qualified opportunities are becoming less common, as firms place greater emphasis on completed qualifications and practical experience. While there are a number of possible reasons behind this shift, the message for candidates is clear.
If you are currently studying, completing your qualification before making a move is likely to open up more opportunities and put you in a stronger position.
Looking Ahead
Q1 has made one thing clear. The Northern tax market, across both the North of England and Scotland, is in a strong position.
Demand is steady, firms are investing and opportunities exist at every level. For candidates, this is a market where being informed and prepared can make a real difference.
Whether you are actively considering a move or simply keeping an eye on the market, 2026 is shaping up to be a year full of opportunity across Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Glasgow and beyond.
If you are not actively looking, staying informed is just as important. In a market like this, the right opportunity can appear unexpectedly. Being prepared puts you in the best position to take advantage when it does. Feel free to reach out for a confidential chat: sam.minor@pro-tax.co.uk
