Half of Scots firms ‘planning to hire more staff’

ALMOST half of Scottish firms plan to increase staffing levels over the coming months in a further sign of the strengthening economy.

The number of people being hired in Scotland has risen, reflecting the country's strengthening economy. Picture: Craig Stephen

The number of businesses looking to add staff has also grown significantly over the past year according to the latest professional hiring survey carried out by recruitment giant Robert Half and seen by Scotland on Sunday.

The 48 per cent of HR directors who say they plan to increase hiring levels represents a 14 percentage point rise from 2013.

A further 45 per cent of executives say that they plan to maintain employee levels, with many who had previously only filled vacated positions now expanding their teams and adding new roles.

Kris Flanagan, associate director Scotland for Robert Half, said: “Hiring levels in Scotland are returning 
to pre-recessionary levels, as many executives look to add more weight and support to their departments in order to grow their operations.

“Businesses are no longer just replacing leavers but are now looking to substantially expand their teams. Resourcing is fundamental to an organisation’s success, with strong individuals driving business critical growth initiatives.”

But the survey also flagged shortages of pro­fessional level employees with over a third describing it as “very challenging” to find the staff they are ­seeking.

“Skills shortages across the Scottish economy are becoming a major issue, with this deficit putting businesses at increasing risk,” added Flanagan.

Our figures show that ­financial services and ­finance and accounting, in particular, are current and future growth areas, with professionals being highly sought after and commanding premium remuneration.”