Frequently Asked Questions
At Skillfinder International, we believe in clarity. Whether you’re a client, contractor, or job seeker, here’s everything you need to know about how we work.
About Skillfinder International
Who is Skillfinder International?
Skillfinder International is a recruitment and consulting partner specialising in financial services and technology. Founded in 2003, we connect skilled professionals with leading financial institutions and technology providers worldwide.
Where are your offices located?
Our head office is in London, and we also have a fully operational offices in Luxembourg and the Czech Republic supported by our registered entities Skillfinder S.a.r.l and Skillfinder S.r.o
What are your niche markets?
We specialise in high-demand, tech and operational role within regulated markets including:
•Investment Banking
•Fund Management & Asset Services
•Private Banking & Wealth Management
•Banking Operations
•FinTech (Development, Infrastructure & Support)
•Digital Technologies & Tech Transformation
•Risk, Regulatory Compliance & Operational Resilience
•AI, Machine Learning, Quantitative & Data Science
Where do you operate?
We deliver recruitment and consulting services across 22+ countries, including the UK, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, the Middle East, and APAC.
What makes Skillfinder different?
We combine deep market expertise with precision hiring across the globe, we have a long history of successfully finding talent across borders and helping them to relocate to new places. Our consultants understand the technologies, regulations, and people behind financial services, ensuring placements that last.
Recruitment & Consulting Services
Do you recruit for both permanent and contract roles?
Yes. We deliver permanent and contract (freelance)solutions across our specialist markets.
Do you offer consulting or managed services?
Yes. We provide consulting Statement of Work and managed solutions for clients requiring flexible, scalable, or project-based hiring.
How do you ensure compliance requirements are met?
Working in regulated markets means we have to ensure all our candidates have been fully vetted correctly according to each of our client’s requirements. We ensure they know exactly what background checks they will be expected to pass. Where candidates are likely to fail a check – reporting this to the client before the checks are completed. to ensure the right long-term match.
How do you ensure cultural fit?
Our clients are a diverse bunch, that’s why we spend time understanding what type of person will work well in their environment. Recruiting people with your client’s cultural nuances in mind will help deliver the best results.
Do you support international hiring?
Yes. (We’re Skillfinder International after all). We help clients hire and onboard talent across borders, it’s why we are so successful, we’re able to move people from places or unearth candidates able to work remotely. This is contingent on candidates already holding the right to work in the relevant country, as we do not provide visa sponsorship.
Do you recruit for specific banking and technology platforms?
Yes. We support hiring across a wide range of financial systems, technology disciplines and operational functions used across the industry. This includes major core-banking and investment platforms such as Avaloq, Temenos (T24/Transact), TPH, AA, Triple A, Wealth, Data Lake, Infinity and Multifonds, as well as extensive coverage across software and systems development (Java, C#, C++, Python), cloud and infrastructure, cyber and information security, data analysis and engineering, DevOps, QA/testing, and infrastructure support.
Beyond platforms and pure tech, we also recruit for full projects and change teams (PMOs, Business Analysts, Project and Programme Managers) across technology, regulatory and operational change. Our scope further includes operations (trade support, reconciliations, settlements, client servicing, administration, corporate actions, CoSec, tax/FATCA), risk and compliance (market, credit and operational risk, ESG, AML/KYC, anti-bribery and corruption), and comprehensive fund services across alternative investments, private equity, real estate and UCITS - including fund administration, transfer agency, transaction administration, depository, fund accounting, NAV and oversight.
How fast can you deliver shortlists?
Depending on the role, we can often deliver qualified shortlists within days through our established network and proactive sourcing.
Payroll & Compliance
How does Skillfinder handle contractor payroll?
Contractor payroll is processed through the correct Skillfinder entity depending on where the contractor is based. This ensures all payments are made in line with local employment, tax, and compliance requirements.
Do you manage international payroll?
Yes. We manage payroll across multiple jurisdictions, working with trusted local partners to meet tax and employment law requirements.
Are contractors employed directly by Skillfinder?
Contractors provide services as independent contractors or engage via umbrella or management companies, but they are not employed directly by Skillfinder.
Do you support IR35 compliance?
Yes. We ensure all UK contracts are reviewed for IR35 compliance and advise on appropriate engagement models.
How often are contractors paid?
Payments are made monthly, following client approval of timesheets.
Do you provide visa sponsorship?
No. Skillfinder International does not sponsor visas. All candidates must hold valid right-to-work documentation in the country of placement.
What documentation is needed to set up payroll?
Typically: identification, proof of right to work, banking details, and tax or social security documentation.
Do you work with umbrella or limited companies?
Yes. Contractors may work through umbrella companies, preferably a company that is on our PSL or limited companies, provided arrangements are fully compliant with local laws.
How do you ensure compliance with local regulations?
Our compliance team continuously monitors changes in employment, tax, and data protection legislation across every region we operate in.
For Clients
What types of clients do you work with?
We partner with global banks and financial institutions, asset managers, fintech firms, and technology providers supporting regulated markets.
Do you handle confidential or executive searches?
Yes. We regularly conduct confidential searches for leadership and strategic roles.
Do you offer Statement of Work (SoW) or project-based hiring?
Yes. We provide SoW delivery models where project outcomes, deliverables, and milestones are managed end-to-end.
Can you manage supplier consolidation or multi-country hiring?
Yes. Our centralised delivery model helps clients streamline supplier lists while maintaining consistent compliance and reporting.
Can you provide references or case studies?
Yes. We can share anonymised case studies demonstrating successful global delivery and client partnerships.
Do you support diversity and inclusion?
Yes. Equality, Diversity & Inclusion is central to our recruitment process, ensuring every shortlist is fair, transparent, and merit-based.
Can you provide market insights and benchmarking?
Absolutely. We provide up-to-date insights on salaries, talent trends, and regional hiring patterns within financial technology.
Contractor Support
What’s included in contractor onboarding?
We handle contracts, compliance checks, payroll setup, and timesheet access to ensure a seamless start.
How are timesheets managed?
All timesheets are to be approved by the client, and then processed digitally ready for payment.
Who do I contact for payroll questions?
timesheets@skillfindergroup.com
Who do I contact for contract questions?
contracts@skillfindergroup.com
What happens if my contract is extended?
Once the contractor has agreed an updated agreement will be issued confirming the new dates and rates before the extension begins.
How do you handle data protection?
We comply with GDPR and all applicable data protection laws, safeguarding client and candidate information.
Career Opportunities
How can I apply for a job with Skillfinder?
Visit skillfindergroup.com/jobs to view open roles and apply directly.
Can I send my CV for future roles?
Yes. You can register your profile or send your CV to info@skillfindergroup.com
Do you offer career or interview advice?
Yes. Our consultants offer guidance on interviews, salary expectations, and career development across fintech and financial services.
Do you offer visa sponsorship?
No. We do not provide sponsorship. All applicants must hold valid work rights in the relevant country.
Contact & General
How can I contact Skillfinder International?
Phone: +44 (0) 20 3763 9500
Email: info@skillfindergroup.com
Website: skillfindergroup.com
Where are your offices based?
London (Head Office) and Luxembourg (European Office), with recruitment delivery across 22+ countries.
Do you charge candidates any fees?
No. Our recruitment services are completely free for candidates.
How long has Skillfinder been operating?
We’ve been operating since 2003, serving clients and candidates worldwide for over 20 years.
How do I update or remove my details?
Email info@skillfindergroup.com to update or remove your data in line with GDPR regulations.
Need More Information?
If you’re a client looking to discuss a role, or a professional exploring your next opportunity, reach out to our team - we’ll connect you with the right specialist.