Hays Accountancy & Finance - January 2010
Commerce & Industry
Hotspots
The arrival of more favourable economic conditions have produced strong demand for Management Accountants and Business/Financial Analysts to support executive decision making.
Demand has also increased for Systems/Project Accountants with large ERP experience (SAP, JDE, Oracle etc). A high number of system upgrades and new system implementations were fast tracked in the last quarter of 2009 after a year of deferment.
The Government sector needs Accountants with government experience for both contract and permanent positions to meet budget deadlines and assist with increased levels of project work. Demand has also risen for Management Accountants with budgeting and costing experience.
The coming quarter
Most employers are far more positive and are expected to recruit this quarter. Most businesses remained lean in 2009, but as market confidence improves they are now conducting workforce planning and showing strong hiring intentions for the first and second quarters of 2010. The Government sector expects an explosion of activity.
Employer trends
Employers are increasingly using the temporary-to-permanent recruiting option to trial candidates in a role before offering them a permanent position. Permanent salaries have remained constant, but temporary hourly rates have decreased.
Despite an increase in vacancies, many employers remain cautious when recruiting. They are less likely to make quick decisions in their bid to acquire new talent. This provides an excellent opportunity for companies who can quickly identify, interview and hire candidates; they are well positioned to secure the very best talent available.
Candidate trends
Most candidates kept a passive eye on the job market in 2009. Now that the New Year has arrived they are actively pursuing opportunities.
During 2009, many contract candidates sought a permanent position for security. As vacancy activity heats up in 2010, we expect these candidates to return to the contract market.
Candidates are increasingly interested in work/life balance. Positions requiring over 50 hours per week often receive far fewer applications. Demand has also risen for part-time positions, particularly from working parents.
