The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) has become the first accountancy body to join the South Yorkshire Skills Bank, a regional initiative designed to address the area’s shortage of finance and business skills.
The partnership will make AAT courses available through the Skills Bank Portal, offering local businesses subsidised access to training that strengthens financial management and decision-making. Grants can cover up to 60% of training costs, helping employers upskill their teams and improve productivity.
Regional labour data shows that financial expertise is among the most in-demand capabilities in South Yorkshire, with 37% of job vacancies requiring finance skills, while only 7% of candidates list them. Accounting, auditing, and analytical skills are highlighted as critical gaps.
AAT’s national ‘Filling the Gap’ survey reinforces these findings, revealing that more than a quarter of UK employers face difficulties recruiting finance and accounting professionals. Employers also report shortages in data analysis, artificial intelligence, and financial modelling — areas increasingly vital to modern business operations.
The collaboration between AAT and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority is positioned to strengthen the region’s business resilience by equipping employers with the financial expertise needed to sustain growth and competitiveness.
 has become the first accountancy body to join the South Yorkshire Skills Bank, a regional initiative designed to address the area’s shortage of finance and business skills.){kind=link}