GCC firms find it hard to attract and retain senior talent

The growth in the GCC is much more promising than other parts of the world but attracting competent talent here is still not an easy task, according to a leading expert in the recruitment industry.

“Competent and committed senior human talent is still very hard to attract to the region,” Konstantina Sakellariou, Partner, Marketing and Operations Director at Stanton Chase told 'Emirates24|7'.

“It was never easy, but the exponential growth had allowed employers for large compromises in their choices, so it appeared for a period of time that it was not so difficult. Now, despite its growth potential and its numerous advantages, the region has shown that it includes also high risk, so senior human talent will make sure they weigh the pros and cons very carefully before coming to the region, or even before changing jobs within the region.

“At the same time, retaining senior executives is challenging, as issues like authority, responsibility and personal growth opportunities are not always addressed in the most satisfactory way, while the increased emphasis on nationalisation poses an additional risk and question mark for their future and long term commitment in their company,” she added.

According to Hasnain Qazi, Middle East Business Manager at Huxley Associates, there are several recruitment challenges that employers face today.

“Recruitment challenges are several - everything from attracting the right people with the correct skillset, experience and motivation. Turnover is an issue, linked to loyalty to the region and to the employer. Similarly, a lot of companies do not have the time to devote to undertake full scale end to end recruitment,” he said.

Restrictive budgets also pose an added problem after the crisis. “Regional employers today are facing an environment where recruitment budgets are still relatively conservative, and the recruitment landscape is replete with highly competitive talent across the industry spectrum. With so much talent pursuing a relatively more subdued level of regional opportunity, getting the hiring equation right is key,” explained Amer Zureikat, VP Sales at Bayt.com.

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