There was a +3% increase in the number of professional jobs opportunities in Ireland during Q2 2014, compared with Q2 2013, according to the Irish Employment Monitor from Morgan McKinley. During the first six months of the year, professional job opportunities increased by +6%, year-on-year.

The Employment Monitor registered a +4% increase in professional jobs during June 2014, compared with June 2013. On a month-on-month basis, job numbers increased by +2%.

There was an increase of +9% in the number of professional jobseekers last month, compared with a year ago. Month-on-month, however, the number of jobseekers fell by -1%.

Karen O’Flaherty, Chief Operations Officer, Morgan McKinley commented: “We would typically expect a slowdown in recruitment activity coming into the summer months so the increase (albeit slight) in the number of professional jobs available on the market in June is undoubtedly a positive indicator for the economy and for jobseekers.”

“The demand for talent remains unabated particularly within sectors such as pharma, ICT, Fast-Moving-Consumer-Goods, and most areas of financial services. However, the improvement in the property sector, specifically in Dublin, has had positive knock-on effects for numerous roles in many areas such as legal, office support and finance. These are further strong indicators of renewed confidence in permanent hiring.”

“Within financial services there is continued demand for accountants who are newly qualified. Professionals with up to three to five years’ post-qualified experience are commanding higher salaries compared to those in 2013.”

She continued: “In the banking sector, both domestic and international banks are increasing headcount within their corporate banking divisions, particularly within the areas of credit analysis and relationship management. Jobseekers with strong credit skills and a background in dealing with large corporates are particularly in demand. As credit facilities increase and confidence in the economy improves, there has been a renewed demand for talent and experience in areas such as wealth management and pensions’ consultancy.”

“The ICT sector nationally is seeking permanent professionals across all levels, from multi-nationals, SME’s and start-ups as confidence in either funding or commitment for longer term projects is secured. Within the supply chain sector there is an increased demand for specialist roles within the food, medical device and pharmaceutical industries. Product and materials management professionals with previous experience in budgeting, sales and order planning are highly sought after as companies continue to improve efficiencies as a means of driving competitive advantage and reducing cost.”

“In the coming months we anticipate a modest pace for hiring and professionals coming on to the market as we move further into the summer months,” Ms O’Flaherty concluded.