NI Students Urged To Explore Fintech Careers

Northern Ireland students are being encouraged to consider careers in the rapidly growing fintech sector, highlighted by the UK government as a key area for future economic growth.

The UK is a global leader in fintech, home to an estimated 2,500 firms employing 76,500 people, with that number projected to reach 105,500 by 2030. Northern Ireland is a recognised fintech hub, boasting the highest concentration of fintech employment in the UK, with over 7,000 people in high-paying roles. Entry-level pay in fintech is estimated to be 60% higher than the average graduate starting salary.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has identified fintech as a vital sector for economic growth, making it an opportune time for graduates to enter this thriving industry known for competitive salaries and development opportunities.

However, a significant skills shortage threatens to hinder the sector's growth. To maintain the UK's leading position in fintech innovation, it is crucial to attract the next generation of professionals. CompareNI.com has launched its fifth annual Fintech Scholarship to raise awareness of career opportunities in the sector. The 2024 scholarship was awarded to Bronagh Cassidy, an Economics student at Ulster University, who received a £1,000 bursary.

"2024 was another positive year for the local fintech industry here in Northern Ireland," said Ian Wilson, Managing Director of CompareNI.com. "Our own price comparison site CompareNI.com saw an incredible surge in customers hunting for savings. With the cost of living still on the rise, it is important for consumers to continue to shop around and reduce their spending where they can."

Wilson added: "I would recommend a career in fintech to any student in Northern Ireland, given the wide range of options available from marketing to coding to business management and client relations, plus the wealth of benefits and competitive salaries on offer. Fintech really is an industry that caters for students from all educational backgrounds so no matter what or where you studied, it’s key to do some research and see what would interest you in this sector."

The CompareNI.com Fintech Scholarship application process involves a short online form asking students for their thoughts on how the sector could improve recruitment and the issues they currently face. The winner will receive a £1,000 bursary and the opportunity for work experience at CompareNI.com.