Companies need to train employees working in finance to balance their work and home lives or risk losing them to a competitor, new research claims.

Recruitment consultancy Robert Half quizzed 1,100 finance professionals and found that almost 40% find achieving a work-life balance the biggest challenge to promotion.

This is most acute in the 36 to 55 age bracket, in which almost half (44%) struggled to achieve a balance. Just 28% of those aged under 25 reported the same.

The report shows that finance professionals are comfortable with leaving their current employer for a better job, and 58% are dissatisfied with their career progression.

Dave Jones, UK managing director of Robert Half, said the results offered a warning to employers.

“Our survey reveals a very serious message for employers – that finance professionals are not afraid to move companies to further their careers.

“Achieving a healthy work-life balance is one of the most difficult challenges employees face so they need some help from their bosses. Companies need to encourage their staff to work reasonable hours, and those in charge need to lead by example,” he said.