Turbulent market conditions are still providing new opportunities, as financial services contractors are rapidly discovering.

The number of senior business analyst contractor jobs and senior project management jobs in financial services has increased by 22.4% since the start of the year, according to research by Joslin Rowe Interim.

James Guttridge, head of Joslin Rowe financial services interim recruitment, said: "The majority of senior business analyst contract jobs and project management contracts are focusing on reducing risk and improving operational efficiency. And, whilst it may seem counter intuitive, when companies are trying to rationalise costs they are willing to pay top daily rates for the skills to implement this."

According to Joslin Rowe Interim research, average daily financial services contractor rates are running at around £800 a day - over £200,000 per annum. However, some investment bank jobs are paying a premium. Guttridge added: "Financial services contractors are highly valued, but their stock rockets if they parachute in mid-project. Effectively, they’re taking a risk. If the project turns around, the financial services contractor can bolster their CV and their pay packet. Rates can rise by 25% to £1,000 a day in this type of scenario. But if the project fails, or continues to flounder, then it’s something that needs to be managed very carefully on a CV so as not to affect future employability."

Typical skills in demand at the moment amongst the financial services interim recruitment agencies include process flow charting, system integration management, strong influencing and negotiation skills, business analysis and project management.