Financial services
It's not just about accountancy and financial services. Scotland has a demand for financial skills in marketing, digital and other exciting sectors.
What impact could you make?
I really enjoy my job. I like talking to different customers every day, being able to help them with whatever they need. In the past year, my confidence has really grown in the job and I've learned a lot. I learn lots in my job every day.Lorena CocozzaCustomer Service Modern Apprentice, HSBC UK
Financial services at a glance
With the development of banking apps, both digital and customer service skills are in demand. New technology has opened up new ways of interacting with customers, saving money and analysing the market.
Employment
In 2023, there were 69,600 people working in the financial services industry across Scotland.
Job availability
Between 2023 and 2026, it's expected there will be 1,900 people needed to fill job openings in Scotland.
Job diversity
As of October 2023, there are 393 Modern Apprentices across Scotland training in financial services.
Invest in your future
We’ve pulled out some of the most popular financial services job profiles for you to explore.
Things you may not know about financial services
As of February 2023, 97% of the United Kingdom's population had a day-to-day banking account.
Source: Statista
Scotland is one of Europe’s financial services leaders. We’re the second largest international financial hub in the United Kingdom.
Source: Scottish Business News
FinTech (Financial Technology) is growing rapidly in Scotland. Since 2018, the number of FinTech companies has increased from around 20 to more than 140.
Source: FinTech Scotland
What subjects you could take in school
We've pulled together some examples of subjects and Foundation Apprenticeships (FAs) that could be useful for getting into a financial services career.
Accountancy FA
Financial Services FA
business
English
maths
design and manufacture
Organisations making a difference
Discover organisations within financial services and how they’re making an impact.
Scottish Financial Enterprise
Scottish Financial Enterprise is the representative body for Scotland’s financial services industry. It supports members ranging from small, local companies to global organisations.
Visit Scottish Financial Enterprise
FinTech Scotland
FinTech Scotland encourages collaboration within the FinTech world. To do this, they connect organisations within the financial sector.
Visit FinTech Scotland
Investment 20/20
Investment 20/20 is part of the Investment Association. It points you towards guidance, trainee programmes and events to help kickstart your future in finance.
Visit Investment 20/20
Future Asset
Future Asset encourages girls at school across Scotland to consider a career in the world of investment.
Visit Future Asset