Brokers will be in high demand in the next few months, with recruitment specialist Hays predicting a “flurry” of hiring activity in the new financial year.

Hays’ quarterly report for July to September predicts “a fresh chapter for the job market” which will see employers looking to increase staff levels.

In turn, employees leaving secure positions to seek new opportunities or greater career development will add to recruitment levels.

For risk insurance, Hays predicts brokers and claims managers in professional and financial lines will be highly sought after, as will claims assessors in the life sector.

“A renewed enthusiasm to recruit has steadily brought stability and fresh optimism to the market,” Hays Director Nick Deligiannis said.

“Employers realise they are understaffed after downsizing during the [economic] downturn to a point where they no longer have sufficient headcount to take advantage of recovering market conditions.”

He says rising vacancy activity naturally leads to a spike in candidate interest, particularly from quality candidates who keep an eye on the market.

“So we expect a rise in the number of candidates leaving their secure roles in search of a new and exciting opportunity.

“Unless employers have communicated career development plans clearly, employees are likely to question their future and begin to explore the rising number of opportunities on the market.”

Also see www.insuranceNEWS.com.au/jobs.