Increasing jobs growth in financial sector

Talent shortages and an ageing workforce are driving jobs growth across the financial industry despite a tightening economy, according to Kaplan Professional.

Warren Jacobson, the chief executive of Kaplan, said there had never been a better time to move into the financial services sector. Kaplan is holding a Financial Services Career Week in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth this month.

“Opportunities in financial services are there for the taking. Careers week offers a rare chance for participants to learn insider tips from industry experts, employers and recruiters about the personal attributes, skills and qualifications needed to access these opportunities,” he said.

Simon Hutchinson, the associate director of Macquarie Banking and Financial Services Group, who will present at the Sydney conference, said: “We work in a tough industry with strong competitors and an ever changing landscape that pushes people to be their best at all times. Working in financial services can be very rewarding, challenging the individual to continuously ensure they are up-to-date on industry trends, are following sound risk management procedures and are continuously improving on their performance.”

The senior recruiter at Hays Recruitment, Teresa Keown, who will present in Adelaide, said the demand for financial specialists is rising, and candidates needed to move quickly to capture jobs.

“The number of new jobs registered remains at record levels, the demand for specialist skills is up, and we’re doing more overseas campaigning for talent than ever before. Candidates now need to be prepared to move quickly,” she said.

The conference will take place from August 18 to 22.