New York and London remain the twin powerhouses of global finance. Capital markets in both cities are adapting to shifting deal activity, regulatory scrutiny and new forms of capital raising. Where capital flows, communications demand follows and the hiring landscape for financial PR and investor relations professionals tells a compelling story. As a recruiter focused exclusively on financial communications, I see first-hand how hiring practices diverge between these two hubs.
Market Backdrop
In New York City a resurgence in capital markets activity is fuelling demand for strong storytelling. IPO pipelines are reopening, private credit continues to expand and hedge funds are competing aggressively for attention. That competition translates into a surge in demand for communications specialists who can cut through noise, manage complex stakeholder expectations and position firms for growth.
London faces a more selective environment—particularly in equity markets—but activity remains healthy in debt issuance, infrastructure M&A and private capital. ESG-linked financing continues to gain ground and regulatory scrutiny from the FCA keeps reputation management high on the agenda. Communications hires here tend to be more targeted and strategic, with ESG and regulatory expertise increasingly sought-after.
Hiring Practices: NYC vs London
New York
- Searches move quickly, with firms willing to pay premiums to secure proven talent. The best candidates often have multiple offers on the table.
- High base salaries and sign-on bonuses remain key differentiators. Counter-offers are common, making retention a constant challenge.
- Candidates with deal communications, activist defence, or alternatives experience are in particularly high demand.
- Flexibility is limited at many firms, making hybrid or remote-first roles a major selling point for candidates.
London
- Firms spend more time on cultural fit and long-term potential over quick wins.
- Flexibility and hybrid working is not just tolerated, it’s a genuine selling point for top talent.
- Candidates with ESG & sustainability credentials, especially those comfortable navigating global frameworks, are securing premium roles.
- Beyond salary, purpose, progression and team culture often make or break a hire.
What Each Market Can Learn
NYC from London – Place greater emphasis on flexibility, invest earlier in ESG and sustainability narratives, and broaden hiring beyond traditional Wall Street pedigrees to attract purpose-driven talent.
London from NYC – Move faster to secure talent, sharpen compensation strategies and invest more in tech-driven finance communications expertise.
What This Means for Hiring
While market conditions shift, one thing is constant: capital markets firms in both New York and London need communications professionals who can turn complexity into clarity and manage reputations in high-stakes environments. For employers, understanding regional hiring dynamics is key to winning the best people. For candidates, the ability to blend technical fluency with strategic storytelling is what sets them apart. As someone who advises across both markets, I see the opportunity clearly: firms that adapt their hiring approach, balancing speed with selectivity and compensation with culture, will be best positioned to attract and retain the communications talent that drives competitive advantage.
Whether you’re hiring top Financial Communications talent or considering your next career move, our team would be delighted to support you.
Rachel L’Estrange heads up the Global Corporate and Financial desk where she uses her sector knowledge to support teams gain industry talent across the USA, London and the UAE.
Hanson Search is a globally recognised, award-winning talent advisory and headhunting consultancy. Our expertise lies in building successful ventures worldwide through our recruitment, interim and executive search in communications, sustainability, financial communications, public affairs and policy, digital marketing and sales.
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