Top industries in Hong Kong expected to hire thoughout 2023 include banking and finance, technology, and sustainability, said Hays recently when releasing its 2023 Hays Asia Salary Guide.
The recruitment agency projected a 43.9% staff level increase in Hong Kong this year.Â
According to the guide, 61.4% of employers in Hong Kong expressed confidence in their ability to hire the skilled talent they need, a conversative figure matching the trend of fewer candidates looking to job hop in the city.
Hays provides an analysis of these top industries in Hong Kong that will continue to hire in the year.
Banking and finance
Amid uncertain global economic conditions, Hong Kong appears to have found its footing, as is looking to make up lost ground. Improving market conditions in the country have proved favourable for the banking and finance industry, especially on the backs of Fitch Ratings upgrading the sector outlook to ‘improving’.Â
Conversely, the outflow of talent in 2022 has accelerated demand for roles, especially Corporate Banking Relationship Managers and Fund Raising and Fundraising Managers. A renewed focus on ESG has also resulted in an intensified hiring focus for bankers with sustainability knowledge, particularly for roles related to Climate Risk.
Across all roles, Mandarin speakers with strong interpersonal skills and adaptability were seen as a priority.
Technology
The global pandemic accelerated digital transformation and while it was a priority for many businesses pre-pandemic, it became a necessity almost overnight.Â
This has created a continued demand for tech skills on all levels, particularly in Business Transformation, Cyber Security and Data Analytics.
As digital transformation accelerates, so do the threats that companies face today, however. Enterprises recognise the need to enhance their defence strategies to effectively tackle these challenges and are actively striving to bridge any existing loopholes.
With big data continuing to play a pivotal role in providing cost-effective options in a wide range of use cases, organisations are cognisant of the need to be able to harness the amount of information available to them. Data Analysts remain highly coveted for this reason.
Effective communication skills, strategic thinking and adaptability were seen as key to candidates looking to succeed in these roles.
Sustainability Â
ESG is an increasingly top priority for organisations across the globe. Investors and customers are more aware than ever of its importance.Â
Professionals looking to specialise in a ‘green’ job may wish to consider getting certified for BEAM, WELL, LEED, or Carbon Auditing, depending on regulatory requirements. Stakeholder management, strategy and change management and data analysis skills were all seen as vital for relevant roles.
The average salary has increased across many of these industries, as skills shortages continue to create demand for sought-after professionals.
