Hays Human Resources - April 2007

Private Sector

Hotspots

2007 has thus far produced high levels of vacancy activity and a significant increase in the volume of contract opportunities, particularly within the areas of change management and capability development. Requirements in this area will continue over the coming quarter, with a number of organisations embarking on significant initiatives to achieve cultural and behavioural effectiveness.

Some specialisations within HR continue their increasing demand, specifically remuneration and benefits, OH&S, in-house recruitment and organisational development. The number of highly skilled specialists in these areas remains limited and organisational requirements lean toward specific academic qualifications and training in addition to experience.

The market remains competitive particularly within generalist HR where there is regular movement.

The coming quarter

A high level of recruitment activity is expected to continue and there has been considerable movement during the first quarter of the year, with this buoyancy expected to remain as we approach the end of the financial year.

Executive recruitment

This market remains quite steady. Contracting is common and programs leading business transformation or transition are popular, reflecting a growing trend in streamlining fiscal and people performance and effectiveness.

Salaries

Salaries remain competitive at all levels and the number of reward and recognition programs continue to increase in popularity, particularly within the realm of health and well-being initiatives.

Candidate trends

The number of highly experienced HR professionals undertaking contract roles continues to rise while demand for high calibre and highly skilled candidates continues as organisations strengthen their HR function.