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‘More opportunities’ for HR staff in 2014

HR professionals are set to move during 2014, with 60 per cent expecting to look for a new job.

According to research conducted by recruitment company Hays, the resurgent strength of the UK economy means recruitment in the HR industry is set to increase during the next 12 months. 

Some 47 per cent of employers expect to hire more permanent HR staff and 28 per cent intend to take on additional temporary workers.

The findings are published in the Hays Human Resources Salary and Benefits Guide 2014. They are based on a survey of 570 employers and 780 employees.

Salaries for HR staff are forecast to increase in line with the cost of living by two-fifths of employers and 14 per cent of employers believe they will rise above inflation. More than half report having awarded pay rises during the past year.

HR generalists are expected to enjoy a growing number of opportunities, particularly within the £30,000 – £40,000 bracket. Opportunities will also abound for those in resourcing and talent, and reward roles.

HR advisors are predicted to earn an average salary of £28,000, while a salary of £77,000 will be available to HR directors.

There is expected to be a significant shortfall in experienced talent during the next 12 months. A shortage of such candidates is anticipated by 64 per cent of employers, while 41 per cent of employers believe their current business objectives are being compromised by a lack of talent. 

Barney Ely, director of Hays human resources, predicts a positive 2014 for the HR industry, with more opportunities available for staff. 

"It is evident that employers are now shifting from managing the challenges of the economic downturn to taking advantage of the growing confidence in the economy. This will increase competition for commercially astute HR professionals who can manage change, so employers will need to work hard to retain and attract the best talent to ensure their business can grow in 2014," he commented.