Is a Pay Rise on the Cards in 2025? Matrix Recruitment Says Yes, but Only if You Work in These Key Areas

Salaries in Ireland are projected to remain high in 2025, according to Matrix Recruitment.

The recruitment agency, which has just published its Salary Guide for 2025, predicts that salary bands will remain steady compared to 2024 wages in the year ahead. However, roles that are difficult to fill are expected to see rises in salary scales as companies compete to attract and retain top talent.

Speaking about the 2025 jobs market, Kieran McKeown, MD of Matrix Recruitment, said: “The unemployment rate in Ireland is expected to remain low throughout 2025, creating a strong labour market and a stable base for economic growth in the year ahead. While this is positive, it does come with challenges for employers, particularly in sectors that are crying out for skilled talent.

“In terms of salaries, we predict that wages will be in line with 2024, which saw increases due to the continued cost of living. With inflation on the way down, this should mean more money in people’s pockets. In areas where there are talent gaps, the competition to entice candidates will lead employers to increase the salaries on offer. The skills shortage will be particularly acute in the Financial Services, Accountancy, and Environmental Sustainability sectors.”

For job roles that are in high demand, the Matrix Recruitment Salary Guide predicts an average salary increase of 10 – 11%.

Financial Services

In 2024, the Financial Services industry faced an unprecedented surge in regulatory scrutiny, driving a sharp increase in demand for professionals specialising in regulatory compliance and risk management.

As a result, Compliance Officers at all levels of experience should see salary increases of 7% -13% next year, particularly in the Dublin region. Entry-level wages are also expected to jump as companies aim to attract more finance professionals into this area.

Salaries for risk management roles will also rise, with increases of 11% – 22%. As Dublin is a financial hub for many global companies, the demand for talent will be particularly acute in the capital.

Continued digital transformation in the finance sector will place an emphasis on recruitment for professionals skilled in AI, data analysis, cybersecurity, and FinTech in 2025, with talent shortages leading to longer hiring timelines.

Accountancy

Professionals in tax, data analytics, and consultancy are in short supply heading into 2025. The integration of AI in routine tasks is elevating the need for advisory and strategic professionals, pushing salaries higher in this area in particular.

Financial Controllers will see starting salaries rise by up to 10% in Dublin, while outside Dublin, experienced professionals may see increases of up to 13%.

Internal Auditors are also expected to see wage rises of 12% – 22% in Dublin. In regional areas of the Midlands, West, and South, salary bands for experienced Internal Auditors may increase by up to 7%.

Engineering

Professionals with expertise in renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and AI integration will be critical in 2025 as the industry undergoes significant advancements.

Automation Engineers will be in high demand, with maximum salaries for experienced professionals predicted to increase by up to 12%.

Project Managers outside Dublin are also in line for salary increases, with baseline salaries expected to rise by up to 7% regionally.

Supply Chain

Geopolitical tensions and fluctuating markets are driving a surge in demand for analytics professionals within the Supply Chain sector, particularly those skilled in AI-driven logistics. This trend is set to continue, with experienced Procurement Specialists outside Dublin expected to see the greatest increase in salary expectations, with maximum salaries rising by up to 17%. In Dublin, professionals can expect a more modest 7% increase.

Project Managers should also see salary increases of 6% – 9% next year as recruitment ramps up in key areas in 2025. There will also be a significant focus on recruiting Supply Chain Managers and Demand Planners, according to Matrix Recruitment.

Contract work will be on the rise in the Supply Chain sector next year as companies navigate a dynamic and uncertain environment.

Environmental and Sustainability

The push for renewable energy and eco-friendly practices is creating demand for roles such as sustainability consultants, environmental engineers, and ESG specialists. These roles will be a key recruitment focus for 2025, according to Matrix Recruitment.

Certifications like LEED and ISO 14001 will enhance candidate competitiveness and earning potential. Sustainability Managers can expect salaries between €60,000 – €85,000, depending on location and experience. Environmental Consultants can anticipate salaries between €45,000 – €65,000, with those in Dublin earning slightly more than their regional counterparts.

Quality and Biopharmaceuticals

Growth in life sciences and biotech is driving demand for professionals in quality assurance, lab automation, and R&D. Salaries in these roles have risen in recent years and will remain high in 2025 as companies compete to attract and retain top talent in a tight labour market. In addition to competitive salaries, employers are expected to offer enhanced benefits to address talent shortages. The most in-demand roles include Quality Managers, Lab Technicians, and Microbiologists.

To access the complete 2025 Salary Guide, please click here.