Demand for talent in Belgium increases year-on-year

2/11/2015

• 5% rise in job advertisements compared to the same time last year 
• Economic growth fuels year-on-year increases in job advertisements for supply chain and logistics, property and construction, manufacturing and engineering 

There is continued demand for candidates in Belgium, as shown by a 5% rise in job advertisements compared to the same time last year, according to Robert Walters' European Job Index.

This demand is being driven by sound economic conditions in Belgium that have boosted business confidence.  The improving economy and a rise in exports also explains a significant year-on-year increase in advertisements for supply chain and logistics, manufacturing, property and construction, and engineering candidates which rose by 32%, 42%, 37% and 20%, respectively. The figures also suggest that the wider macroeconomic troubles in China have not had a negative impact on the jobs market in Belgium.

Willingness to move 

The year-on-year figures are encouraging and show that demand for candidates is steadily growing. This in turn is improving candidate confidence, and they are now more willing to move and are proactively seeking new opportunities. 

Jobs advertisements in banking and financial services fell by 30% year-on-year as a result of businesses shifting focus to the front office, where staff numbers are lower. Furthermore, a series of mergers and acquisitions in the sector have decreased demand for back and middle office personnel.  Nevertheless, there is continued demand for specialists, mainly in risk and compliance. 

Looking ahead to the rest of the year, we expect advert volumes to pick up following the quiet summer period and demand for candidates to remain strong. As the market becomes more candidate-led businesses will become increasingly focused on staff retention, and when they look to grow headcount they will need to be prepared for counter offers.