The number of advertised throughout Switzerland grew by 19.8% in September 2018, year-on-year, according to the Michael Page Swiss Job Index. Monthly growth across Switzerland stood at 14.2%.

These were the highest growth rates recorded since the start of the Index in 2012.

The German-speaking region, which accounts for 9 out of 10 advertised jobs, led the way with 15.3% monthly growth and 20.0% annual growth. This compared with 8.5% and 18.7%, respectively in the Swiss Romande region.

Demand was especially strong for facility managers. This reflects the substantial growth in the real estate sector for both new developments and reconstructions. Demand also grew significantly for specialists in sales, logistics, management support and business administration as well as the pharmaceutical industry.

“We are definitely in a candidate-driven market across many sectors,” Nicolai Mikkelsen, Executive Director, Michael Page, said. “We recommend that employers be prepared to accept the second and third candidates on their short list as the preferred candidate will often have multiple offers and accept other offers during the recruitment process.”

 The East Region (AI, AR, GL, GR, SG, SH, TG) showed the most robust results with a record monthly growth rate of 22.7% and an annual growth in advertised jobs of 38.3%. This was mainly driven by the demand for specialists in IT, administration, sales, as well as engineering and technical roles – especially in the canton of St Gallen. Advertised jobs in all regions showed strong monthly and annual growth.