The number of professional job vacancies in the Republic of Ireland has risen by 21pc in a year, in a sign its economic recovery is gaining pace, according to the Morgan McKinley Irish Employment Monitor for July 2014.
The 21pc increase equates to 9,699 vacancies in July 2014, compared to 7,681 professional jobs on offer in July 2013.
The number of professionals (9,500) seeking jobs in July 2014 also increased, by 4pc, compared to the previous month (9,125), and rose by 3pc compared to July 2013 (9,240).
The report also reveals what is typical for summer months, a month-on-month decrease in vacancies, of 3pc between June and July 2014.
Where the jobs are
In terms of sectors, technology professionals are in such high demand that any candidate seeking to change jobs is receiving multiple offers from other companies or is receiving counter offers, said Karen O’Flaherty, CEO of Morgan McKinley Ireland.
“Ireland’s revival is taking hold as evidenced by the swell in the number of professional jobs vacancies across industries from financial services to pharma to ICT, engineering, science and back support compared to this time last year,” she said.
The report also reveals the property sector has rebounded strongly, resulting in an increase in demand for financial services positions and back office support.
“Many job-seekers in sectors such as financial services and pharma are in the enviable position of being able to attract several offers and those in accounting and finance are seeing an improvement in the packages on offer as opposed to just six months ago,” O’Flaherty said.
Talent shortages in niche areas
Niche areas, such as regulation and compliance, in pharma and financial services, are showing major talent shortages, according to the report, and companies need to focus on internal upskilling to attract talent, as well as ensure they do not lose out economically in the medium term.
O’Flaherty added that many employers are recognising the changes in the jobs market and are trying to attract top talent with packages that focus on more than traditional pay and benefits.