HR experiences own skills shortages: new data

Analysis of vacancy data shows the demand for HR professionals has risen in the last year, according to the Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo).

Sign saying "come in, we're hiring"
Calculated from March 2016 to March 2017, the demand for HR roles grew four per cent over the 12 months. The number of vacancies for recruitment specialists as part of this group increased by 12 per cent over the same period.The pivotal month for the period was March 2017, which saw a nine per cent increase when compared to March 2016.

A regional view

Sectors experiencing the highest growth in the number of HR vacancies over the past year were advertising and media, with vacancy increases of 34 per cent and 33 per cent respectively.Regionally, Greater London continues to report the highest number of HR vacancies, with almost half (43%) of the country’s roles based in this region. However, this represents a slight contraction of one per cent year-on-year.In England, the West Midlands (14%) and the South East (11%) experienced an increase in demand.

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Brexit sees more reliance on HR and recruiters to deliver change

Commenting on the findings, Ann Swain, chief executive of APSCo, said: “The fact that demand for HR professionals has increased year-on-year is unsurprising when you consider the current level of wider geopolitical uncertainty.“The ability for a business to thrive in a post-Brexit world relies on it being able to attract and retain vital skills. Potential legislative changes associated with the UK’s exit from the European Union, and indeed a new government, mean that organisations are bringing on board expertise in this area to ensure they are prepared for, and resilient to, change."

Recruitment shortfall

Continuing, Ms Swain said: “It is also no shock that demand for recruitment specialists is outstripping general HR vacancies.“According to the latest APSCo Deloitte Recruitment Index, 61 per cent of recruitment leaders say their greatest challenge is growing headcount.“It is ironic that organisations are finding it increasingly challenging to recruit recruiters – and something which APSCo is working hard to rectify.”

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