Insurance companies are keen to hire, but the industry remains short of quality candidates, according to Hays.

The recruiter’s outlook for the September quarter says there is strong “vacancy activity”, particularly at senior levels, with insurers desperate to secure top talent.

Despite the candidate drought, employers remain demanding of particular skill sets. People with computer skills and multi-division experience are highly sought after.

Hays notes a recent increase in the big four banks’ involvement in the insurance market, which is contributing to the shortage of senior candidates.

Among lower-tier insurance businesses wishing to accelerate growth, senior brokers with claims operations experience are in demand as companies seek senior staff to take on more involvement in overall earnings performances.

Insurance professionals in demand include claims officers in lodgements, life insurance claims assessors, superannuation administrators and brokers.

“Brokers are sought in response to an increase in wealth and insurance broker recruitment,” the report says.

“There is an ongoing thirst from employers to increase headcount for this new financial year.

“Distribution managers and distribution operations managers are also sought after. Employers want to strengthen their state management and broker management channels.”

For employers seeking skilled staff, there is good new and bad news. The good news is “more candidates are interested in future possibilities” and are open to approaches.

The bad news may not come as a surprise. “Their salary expectations are higher due to their awareness that their skills are in high demand,” Hays says.