Experienced CFOs could net $321K in new role: Robert Half

Core Insights - The pace of salary gains has moderated recently due to broader economic headwinds, indicating a shift in the labor market dynamics [3][4] - Employers are taking a more measured approach to hiring, reflecting tighter budgets and internal equity concerns, amidst economic uncertainty [4] - Concerns about the cooling labor market and slow hiring are prevalent among economists and finance leaders [4] Salary Projections - The average U.S. salary for CFOs with moderate experience is forecast to increase by approximately 0.6% to $269,750 next year, up from $268,250 [6] - Starting salary projections for first-time CFOs range from $195,500 to $321,750 for those with extensive experience [6] - Overall finance and accounting salaries are projected to rise by 2.1%, slightly below the August inflation rate of 2.9% [6] Sector-Specific Insights - The finance sector's pay raises are expected to outpace the 1.8% national average salary increase across various sectors [6] - 84% of managers surveyed indicated they would offer higher salaries to candidates with "in-demand skills" [6] - Higher than average starting pay is anticipated in public accounting, tax, audit, assurance roles, as well as in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data sciences, and marketing analytics [6]