Searching for a job in London is not a simple proposition. Competition is fierce, and positions are few. However, several fields are showing high growth rates and are demanding more candidates than London proper may have to offer. These jobs are very diverse, so a diverse range of prospective employees will be able to find at least one job that suits their personality, training and experience. The current top jobs in London are as follows:
Lawyers
Lawyers are in very high demand in London, especially in the areas of banking, finance and corporate law. Any lawyers with the slightest amount of corporate experience will find themselves grabbed up by a top firm in no time. Among the most sought-after lawyers are those who have dealt with corporate acquisitions and mergers. London is also in need of commercial contract lawyers for in-house corporate positions. Financial deals are taking place at a high rate, so new positions are always opening.
Accountants
Several accountancy positions are now open in London. Accountants are needed due to increased demand for financial planners and financial analysts. The types of skills that companies are looking for in new accountants include the ability to handle business partnerships and coordinate financial activity between corporate departments. Businesses are now seeking, more than ever, to control their credit and minimise credit risk. In addition, the need for finalist accountants has made a comeback after a two-year slowdown.
Investment Bankers
The market is emerging from a years-long recession, and people are getting more comfortable in making new investments. Trading volume has increased, so investment banks have opened new positions. Positions are opening for several different types of investment bankers. The front offices are looking for bankers that can handle distressed credit sales. Procurement needs experienced category managers. Operations is looking for performance analysts and support for derivative trades. Risk managers are always needed to mitigate risk in the market, in credit and in operations. Finally, compliance specialists are being hired to keep banks in line with the law.
Human Resource Managers
HR managers are in high demand simply because so many positions are in high demand. HR specialists are being sought to actively recruit for these positions. In addition, many companies are trying to shake themselves out of the recession by mixing up senior positions. Executives who cannot perform are being shown the door, and fresh faces are being ushered in.
Senior Financial Professionals
Experts in financial planning and financial control are in demand due to the rapid growth of several industries, including retail, insurance and construction. Retailers are seeking to maximise profits through tight margins, and corporations are looking for strong leadership in this time of growth. Many companies are operating with multiple vacancies, so strong candidates are required to keep the fabric together.
Pharmaceutical Professionals
Pharma professionals are required in both commercial and government roles in London. As the industry experiences a boom, pharmaceutical companies need more employees and the government needs more regulators. Companies are looking for a variety of positions, but sales and medical/hospital representatives are the highest in demand. Other positions in the industry include product developers, project coordinators and branding specialists. In-house regulatory positions are also being added by pharma companies to prevent forced government regulation. Most of these positions are on the outskirts of the city and in the M4 corridor.
Insurance Professionals
The insurance industry is gaining strength, so insurance companies are getting much more comfortable hiring additional staff. The greatest need is for actuarial specialists and underwriters. The European Union has implemented new legislation regarding insurance, and insurance companies are looking for consultants in how to implement the new Solvency 11 laws by 2013.
Information Technologists
Information technology is always growing, and no end to the growth is yet in sight. Nearly every business and organisation in London requires IT and networking professionals. Many companies are seeking IT professionals who know how to provide the technology required on a strict budget. This focus on cost savings has also opened up positions for technology consultants that have experience relaying information to corporate executives.
Construction
Large construction projects are underway again in London. Civil and structural engineers and cab technicians are required at multiple construction sites. One major focus is on health and safety. Maintenance engineers are also very high in-demand.