HR remains in demand, says survey

HR professionals with restructuring and downsizing experience are in demand by businesses looking to cope financially with the recession, according to Robert Walters’ latest Salary Survey.

Darren Wentworth, Director of Robert Walters human resources division, comments: “One of the key considerations for all HR functions operating in the current economic climate is handling restructuring and redundancies in a fair and reasonable manner. Many businesses are acting now to protect their reputation and brand by hiring experienced employee relations experts.”

With the inevitable disputes arising from poor market conditions, 2008 saw an increase in demand for employee relations experts compared to 2007. As organisations attempt to minimise disruption and negative press coverage resulting from redundancies, this trend is expected to continue in 2009.

However, it’s not good news for all HR practitioners: the survey findings revealed a reduction in the levels of permanent HR recruitment, although this was counterbalanced by an increase in temporary recruitment. There was an increase in interim and fixed term contract assignments in 2008 as organisations employed specialist contractors for specific HR roles on a short term basis. This trend was particularly evident in those sectors closely associated with financial services, construction and engineering.

There was also signs of an increased demand for HR business partners with strong commercial skills and solid experience. HR personnel willing to take the risk of contract and interim work continue to be in demand.

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