Industry variations have become apparent in the US with CFOs in finance, insurance and retail sectors reporting strong optimism over the prospects for hiring staff in the fourth quarter.
The survey by Robert Half International, the recruitment specialist, shows that 30% of financial executives in this industry plan to take on fresh personnel. This is an increase of 17% on the third-quarter forecast and is 27% over the national average.
"The sharp rise in demand for qualified accounting and finance professionals underscores a strong level of business activity," says Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of Robert Half International. "Home buyers acting on low interest rates continue to fuel demand for residential real estate, mortgage loans and refinancing. Furthermore, many banks are responding to new government regulations which is placing a premium on financial professionals to assist with compliance requirements."
Transportation and wholesale sectors have also returned a positive response, with CFOs reporting hiring increases of 8% and 7% in the respective industries.