Seasonal factors are behind the 2pc decline in the number of new professional job vacancies in Ireland from 7,953 in July 2012 to 7,828 in August 2012, however, professionals with IT development skills continue to be in demand, the Morgan McKinley Irish Employment Monitor reveals.
“The dips in job availability and professional job seeker numbers are expected and indicative of the summer period. August is traditionally a more subdued month for the Irish professional jobs market as many hiring managers and job seekers take time off,” said Karen O’Flaherty, chief operations officer, Morgan McKinley.
August 2012 also reflected a 2pc decrease from 11,365 in the number of professionals entering the jobs market month-on-month. However, when compared to August 2011 (10,965), the volume of new professional job seekers increased by 1pc.
The number of professional job opportunities also rose by 1pc when compared to July-August 2011 (7,767).
In terms of job seekers that employers want, O’Flaherty said that in addition to professionals with IT development skills, part qualified and qualified accountants with a second European language, internal auditors and procurement managers top wanted lists.
Growth in graduate hiring
Graduate hiring also saw growth, said O’Flaherty, particularly within the financial services and banking sectors this month, which reflects historical seasonal trends for this time of year when ‘fresh’ graduates enter the hiring market.
“Larger companies have begun to hire internal recruitment teams – a positive indicator for future hiring plans,” O’Flaherty added.
Morgan McKinley anticipates increased hiring activity for September.
“With decision makers returning from leave, there is a need for the remainder of recruitment budgets to be allocated and met before the end of 2012,” said O’Flaherty.
