Hays Facilities Management
JANUARY - MARCH 2012
Hotspots
Electrical or mechanically-minded Facilities Managers are in demand, particularly those that have a clear understanding of the commercial construction process. This is being driven by the need to improve the energy efficiency of buildings and building management systems. It relates to the need to implement a building management plan into the front end design and construction of the building structure to reduce long term management costs of the building.
There has also been a rise in demand for highly skilled HVAC Services Engineers and HVAC Controls Engineers. Experienced Commercial Facilities Managers are also wanted as a result of changes in contract ownership and an increase in business.
Overcoming skills shortages
We are encouraging employers to look overseas for candidates that have tertiary qualifications in facilities management and have gained relevant experience working with facilities management companies. Across the local market, employers are willing to consider trade-orientated candidates who have good business sense and can be moulded into the right role.
Overall, there needs to be more imagination regarding candidate attraction strategies, while the more forward-thinking employers are offering training and development opportunities and flexibility. They are well positioned to then secure the best candidates.
The coming quarter
There has been limited growth in the number of roles becoming available in the facilities management sector and this is not expected to change. We have noted a bigger push in the market for technically-minded Facilities Managers, but general Facilities Managers vacancies have stalled following limited growth in the commercial property sector. It is likely that the market will continue to pick up over the coming quarter.
Executive section
Employers have been recruiting at the executive level and are looking for senior candidates who can add value at the top end of their business. They want experienced individuals who are able to build the company’s profile and help win more specialised contracts.
Employer trends
Recruitment processes are still too lengthy and many are taking extra precautions to ensure they are taking on the right individual. Salary levels have remained consistent due to a candidate-rich market which puts employers in a position to dictate their desired levels. We are only seeing employers shortening their timeframes when there is an urgency to hire.
Candidate trends
There has been a steady influx of high quality candidates in the current market, while those still remaining in their roles are open to opportunities and are looking at new options as they become available. A number of candidates are returning to Wellington from overseas, in addition to new entrants to the market.
