Hays Information Technology - July 2010

Hotspots

A number of large scale projects have resulted in demand for strong technical candidates, particularly within the banking, telecom and energy sectors. Those with a solid background in sales and consulting will be highly regarded as such candidates are more likely to create opportunities for new business.

The majority of projects won by the consulting firms recently involve Oracle, JAVA, C# and .Net so there is a need for talented candidates with more than five years of experience. There are a variety of roles available, including Developers and Project Managers. They are primarily contract roles.

Within the consulting environment, the IT&T sector is most active and is seeking candidates with at least ten years experience to assist with new projects. A number of telecommunications companies are recruiting for a variety of roles, from Project Managers through to Consulting Directors and Domain Experts.

The coming quarter

There is an expected increase in vacancy activity across all industries considering the number of projects won across the region recently. Many employers have aggressive recruitment plans and are looking to hire for new roles that are being created on both a permanent and contract basis.

Executive recruitment

There are opportunities for candidates, particularly Consultants and Directors, who can help grow the revenue of the company. These roles are the result of new ventures starting up, replacements of those moving to new roles or due to ill-performing businesses.

Movement has certainly risen at this level due to increased demand in the market and the fact that the vendors are building their resource pools exponentially to expand business opportunities across the region.

Employer trends

Employers have been confident to hire again due to the fast economic recovery. Most companies are looking for specialist talent or domain experts who are technically sound and business focussed.

Employers are willing to pay a higher price for the right candidate and will consider overseas candidates with previous experience in the ASEAN market.

Salaries have increased by up to 20 to 25 per cent and some highly qualified candidates even to 30 per cent. The recruitment process has increased from three to five interviews and so the process of closing a position takes around 30 to 45 days.

Activity in the contract market is increasing as employers are opting for three, six or 12 month contract assignments as a way to achieve quick sign-off or to hire staff in the interim until they fill the role permanently.

Candidate trends

Candidates are aware that 2010 is a better year for them and that they now have more options.