SThree plc, a UK-based global staffing firm focused on STEM skills, reported net fees, or gross profit, rose 19% year over year in constant currency in its fiscal year ended Nov. 30 to £430.6 million (US$516.2 million). Growth was driven by demand for STEM skills and execution of strategy, the company said.

“During the year we continued to make progress in the implementation of our strategy with targeted investment in our people, talent acquisition and digital infrastructure moving forward as planned,” Chief Executive Timo Lehne said.

“Towards the end of the year we started to see a softer trading environment, reflecting the uncertain macro-economic conditions, and we continue to monitor the trends across our regions,” Lehne said.

Contract staffing gross profit rose 23% year over year in constant currency. Contract staffing represents the lion’s share of gross profit at 78%. However, SThree noted gross profit in its permanent placement business rose 6%.

SThree’s full-year gross profit in the US was up 13% year over year in constant currency to £111.5 million (US$133.7 million). Life science was a standout performer during the year with demand from activity related to Covid-19, according to the company. SThree’s US engineering operations saw demand for electrical engineering and project management roles.

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