90% of Kiwi employers set consolidate or increase headcount

90% of Kiwi employers set consolidate or increase headcount in 2015

• Half (48%) of businesses expect to raise employee pay

• Seven in ten prioritising permanent hires above contract or a mix of both

Nine in ten employers in New Zealand say they expect to consolidate or increase staffing levels up to the end of 2015, according to a survey of over 200 hiring managers by specialist professional recruiter, Robert Walters.

42% will be looking to increase headcount – up from 30% in 2014 - while 48% expect employee numbers to remain stable this year. Only 10% of survey respondents predict having to cut staffing levels.

The survey, which includes responses from organisations across the country, also reveals that nearly half (48%) plan to give staff a pay rise in 2015.

Shay Peters, Director of Robert Walters Wellington, says:

“With nine out of ten organisations looking to retain or increase headcount, and last year’s general election results ensuring the continuation of a stable investment climate, these results are a reflection of confidence in the New Zealand economy.

“This is reinforced by the very small number looking to downsize, indicating a marked reduction over the past 24 months. With talent shortages expected in some areas, it’s vital that businesses capitalise on their strengths and pitch to prospective employees around the values that make their organisation an attractive place to work.”

The survey also forecasts that:

• 61% of organisations with hiring intentions will be focusing on permanent recruitment

• 45% of hiring managers in Auckland are set to increase headcount this year, more than any other region

• 83% of hires will be of ‘mid-level’ professionals – up from 64% in 2014 - while more than half of businesses are seeking junior staff

-ENDS-

© Scoop Media