Hays Accountancy & Finance - April 2009

Commerce & Industry

Hotspots

Experienced company accountants with specific industry backgrounds are a hotspot of current demand, particularly within the manufacturing sector. Management accountants and financial or performance analysts with NZCA qualifications are also required, particularly within the FMCG sector.

Newly qualified accountants are also required, as are assistant accountants with New Zealand commercial experience who are studying towards their professional qualifications. Credit controllers and payroll clerks are needed, particularly those with local experience or specific software knowledge.

The coming quarter

Vacancy levels have risen for newly qualified accountants, as well as management and financial accountants, as the surge in demand generates movement in the market. Over the coming quarter, demand for accounts payable and receivable clerks with two or more years experience is expected to increase.

Executive recruitment

Demand for finance managers and financial controllers slowed over the last quarter. In the Profession, demand for senior accountants and business advisory services managers remains extremely high. Qualified and experienced candidates with corporate finance and management consulting experience are in high demand as are directors and senior managers within external audit.

Salaries

Due to a high demand for experienced NZCA qualified staff, salaries are expected to remain strong, with many commercial organisations still paying premiums to recruit top talent in spite of the economic downturn. High demand for experienced management accountants and financial analysts is driving employers to be more flexible in their salary offerings, particularly to candidates with strong experience but no professional qualification.

Candidate trends

The flow of newly qualified candidates has slowed noticeably, with many candidates waiting for their annual salary review before considering other opportunities. Candidates with specialist skills are in short supply, particularly management and cost accountants as well as financial analysts in the commercial sector and tax, audit, risk and corporate finance specialists in the Profession.