Category: Business

Amazon Dublin Supports Local Bereavement Charity

A charity supporting families affected by stillbirth has received a €1,000 donation from the team at Amazon’s fulfilment centre in Dublin.

Féileacáin was formed by a group of bereaved parents to offer support to families affected by stillbirth or neonatal loss. The charity provides hospitals in Ireland with a ‘Gifts of Remembrance’ service which includes memory boxes, clay imprints, sibling support and more.

The donation from Amazon will be used to provide memory boxes to Maternity and Children’s Hospitals that are then gifted to parents after the loss of their baby.

Darragh Kelly, General Manager at Amazon in Dublin, said:

“Experiencing the loss of a child will never be an easy journey but with the right support and guidance, families have a safe space to grieve. Féileacáin is run by an amazing team of staff and volunteers who give everything to support families in the community. We hope that this donation can help support the important work they do across Ireland.”

Joe Monahan, an employee from Amazon in Dublin who nominated the charity for support, said:

“Féileacáin is a charity very close to my heart. The endless support the charity’s volunteers provide is outstanding and can be such a blessing for people experiencing the loss of a child. I’m pleased Amazon is showing their appreciation with this donation.”

Nina Doyle, from Féileacáin, added:

“Féileacáin relies on the support of the community to function, and without donations like this, we couldn’t provide our vital services to individuals and families who need it. Thank you, Darragh and everyone at Amazon in Dublin, for believing in what we do.”

The donation to Féileacáin was made as part of Amazon’s programme to support the communities in and around its operating locations in Ireland.

Since opening its doors one year ago, the Dublin fulfilment centre has supported many community organisations locally, with donations totalling €46,000. Charities supported by the team at the fulfilment centre include Cliona’s Foundation, Jigsaw and LauraLynn Children’s Hospice.

The Amazon fulfilment centre in Dublin, the first of its kind in Ireland, opened in August 2022 providing more than 500 new permanent jobs. The 630,000 square foot centre at Baldonnell Business Park in Dublin holds millions of items that are picked, packed and shipped to customers across Ireland and the rest of Europe.

Amazon provides competitive pay, excellent benefits and a modern, safe and engaging work environment for its employees. Amazon pays all its employees in Dublin, whether they are full-time, part-time, temporary, or seasonal, at least €14.25 per hour employees are offered a comprehensive benefits package including include private medical insurance, life assurance, income protection and an employee discount as well as a company pension plan.

New Irish multi-brand no-fees digital gift card – OptionsCard the Christmas gift of choice

The new multi-brand digital gift card, OptionsCard, is the perfect gift this Christmas. OptionsCard was created to provide a world-class gifting experience, free from fees and fuss and with an always visible live balance in your mobile wallet. The multi-choice OptionsCard can be redeemed for more than 60 premium brands such as Brown Thomas, Ikea and Ticketmaster. OptionsCard allows people to easily share or re-gift part of their gift card. To find out more visit www.OptionsCard.ie 

An iReach consumer sentiment survey of over 1,000 adults nationwide commissioned by OptionsCard, revealed that almost 4 in 10 (37%) would share their last gift card value of €20 with a family member and 31% would share the last €20 on their gift card with their partner. The survey also revealed that 62% of consumers see a gift card as a special treat, preferring to spend it on something that they would not normally buy, such as a premium product or experience.  

OptionsCard holders will have access to exclusive special offers and promotions from retail brand partners.  

Viatel’s Discovery Initiative – a gateway to the future for Irish businesses

Viatel Technology Group, a market leader in comms and digital services, has announced a groundbreaking initiative to accelerate Irish organisations on their path to automation and innovation. Throughout November, Viatel is offering exclusive, complimentary ‘Discovery’ consultations, where one fortunate company will win their dream project.

Damien Lee, Director of Software Services at Viatel Technology Group, sets the stage for this exciting initiative, “Irish businesses are still slogging through time consuming manual processes, grappling with old Access databases, and struggling with apps and systems crafted by ex-employees that no longer serve their companies.

“At Viatel we understand the transformative potential of technology. As a Gold Microsoft Partner we’ve successfully guided hundreds of businesses on their digital journeys. From building an online passport application system for the Department of Foreign Affairs, to collaborating with the National Lottery, and reconstructing Chill Insurance’s online quote engine, we’ve proven our commitment to innovation and excellence.”

Damien explains the Discovery Initiative, “This is an open invitation to all companies: bring us your pain! Tell us about your repetitive processes, your outdated apps, and your unscalable systems. We will assess your issues and tailor a solution from an array of options, from off-the-shelf solutions like Power Automate and Power BI, all the way to customised software.”

Following a comprehensive hour-long consultation with a seasoned technical lead and an experienced business analyst, participating companies will receive an outline project scope, including costs. Damien underscores the vital role of pricing, “Companies might believe that this level of technical development is beyond their reach, but the landscape has evolved dramatically, with low-code apps proving to be a game-changer.”

With organisations currently in the midst of planning their 2024 budgets, discovery consultations make it easy to showcase the substantial savings and long-term positive impacts these projects can deliver to the bottom line.

Damien continued “Our commitment to digitisation and development will enhance a company’s efficiency. It’s also fantastic news for employees. This shift can transform how they spend their working hours, increasing job satisfaction and freeing them up for higher-value tasks.”
From every consultation scheduled from now until the end of November, Viatel will select one lucky company to receive five days of free development work. To learn more visit www.viatel.com/discovery-initiative.

Help Employees Manage Their Time Better with These Techniques

Employees are always responsible for their own time in some way. Some of them might have more management and oversight than others, but they all have to manage their time to use it in the smartest way. But when they’re left to their own devices, they can fail to use their time as wisely as they should. They might think they’re using their time as effectively as possible, but the reality is that they could be a lot more efficient. Rather than just expecting them to do better, employers can take steps to help employees manage their time more effectively.

Give Them Tools to Manage Their Time

Sometimes all it takes to do something properly is having the right tools to do it. When it comes to time management, giving your employees the necessary tools can really help them track their time and get more done. You can find that employee time tracking systems are useful not just for your business as a whole but for your employees too. They allow your employees to clock in and out more easily, without having to remember to fill out timesheets. They can keep track of their hours more easily, and so can you. It’s also useful if they can track their available PTO, saving time on PTO requests for everyone.

Help with Expectations

When employees aren’t making the most of their time, it can be because they don’t really know what’s expected of them. They don’t have clear deadlines, they have too much on their plate, or they don’t have a good idea of what process they should be following. Setting clear expectations for your employees can make them a lot better at managing their time. You can ensure they know what deadlines they have to meet but also prevent them from burning out by avoiding giving them too much to do.

Encourage Time Audits

A time audit can be a useful way for an employee to work out where their time is actually going. They might think they’re being productive, but then it turns out that a lot of their time is lost to procrastinating, wrestling with emails, or getting pulled away from their work by coworkers. By taking a time audit, they can track what they’re actually doing with their day. It could highlight some of the ways in which they’re losing time and how they could start to correct that.

Build Time Management Skills

Employees might not always have the skills to manage their own time. This is something that needs to be built, and you can help them do that as their employer. There are various types of training and advice that you can provide employees to show them how they can manage their time more efficiently. Whether it’s how to prioritise tasks or the most efficient way to sort through their emails, you can give them the skills required to be more efficient and productive.

If you want your employees to manage their time better, give them a helping hand to make it easier for them.

Secret Sales Expands into Ireland

Secret Sales, the leading platform and marketplace for off-price retail in fashion, sportswear and beauty, today announces its expansion into Ireland. The platform’s new market launch opens the door for brands and retailers to expand their off-price strategy to reach a potential 3.4 million Irish online consumers. 

Shoppers in Ireland will now have direct access to over £700 million worth of off-price inventory on Secretsales.com from 450 premium brands, including Dsquared2, Plein Sport, Aquascutum, Cavalli, Diesel, Asics, Hackett, Ted Baker, Superdry plus many others.   

This launch supports Secret Sales’ aggressive international strategy of establishing itself as the go-to destination for non-full price retail in all main European markets by 2025, following the latest acquisition of Spanish ecommerce leader, Dreivip.  

Chris Griffin CEO, Secret Sales: “This year, Secret Sales has seen remarkable growth, which has paved the way for us to expand into new territories. For the Irish market, there is already a strong consumer appetite for off-price fashion making this a natural expansion fit for our brands and retail partners. Careful consideration was also given to the product selection to truly appeal to an Irish audience.” 

“As we continue our international expansion path, we are committed to working collaboratively with our brand and retailer base to launch in new markets that align with their business needs. This means increasing margins, reaching new customers and protecting brand equity”, said Chris. 

Secret Sales is on track to end 2023 with growth exceeding 150% year-on-year across the entire European region. Inventory growth has also been strong, standing at +45% year-to-date and is expected to exceed +100% year-on-year following the expansion into Ireland. This represents total inventory value linked to the Secret Sales platform of over £3 billion. 

Headquartered in the UK, Secret Sales also operates in Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain and now Ireland. Secret Sales features over 2,500 luxury and high street brands, including Dolce & Gabbana, Puma, Kurt Geiger and Versace

Salaries to remain flat in 2024

The ‘great resignation’ becomes the ‘big stay’ in 2024 as just 36% of professionals consider exploring new job opportunities

The Morgan McKinley 2024 Irish Salary Guide – Ireland’s most comprehensive analysis of current pay across a range of professions and sectors – has been published.

Morgan McKinley, the Irish-owned global talent services company, anticipates that salaries in most professional areas will see little to no significant change into 2024, closely mirroring an expected inflation rate of around 3%, following also from significant pay increases in recent years.

Nevertheless, there will be notable deviations from this trend in specialised positions and industries facing skills shortages. In these sectors, professionals with significantly in-demand skills could potentially expect salary increases of up to 15%, underscoring the strong competition organisations will encounter as they seek to attract top talent in these areas.

Detailed commentary follows below including key sectoral considerations and currently most in-demand skills/ roles:

Trayc Keevans, Global FDI Director, Morgan McKinley Ireland, said:

“The professional job market in Ireland faced significant challenges in 2023, characterised by fierce competition, talent migration, rising salaries, evolving job seeker dynamics, skills shortages, changing work preferences, and a growing emphasis on transversal skills.

“Morgan McKinley’s Global Hiring Realities Survey, conducted across eight global locations, including Ireland, Australia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, and the UK, highlighted the intense competition in the job market. A staggering 80% of Irish organisations encountered hiring challenges in 2023, creating difficulties in retaining existing employees. A remarkable 72% of Irish employers admitted losing staff within the past six months, mainly due to struggles in competing with pay and benefits offered by competitors and unmet employee expectations regarding more flexible working arrangements.

“The loss of staff occurred despite 44% of Irish employers increasing salaries within their organisations over the past six months. Ireland stood out as second only to the UK in terms of salary increases. In addition, 71% of surveyed employers provided some form of company bonus in 2023, with only China and Singapore reporting higher percentages in this regard. The survey also revealed that 69% of hiring managers plan to raise salary offers for specific hard-to-fill roles in 2024.

“Skills shortages have been a significant challenge, with 40% of employers struggling to find candidates with the right skills for their job openings. To address this, organisations are rethinking their hiring strategies and exploring alternative methods for identifying and nurturing required talent. Close to 80% of employers believe that offering flexible working arrangements is the most effective strategy for attracting new talent, a sentiment shared with Canada. This is closely followed by the significance of providing career advancement prospects, offering competitive salaries, and evaluating prospective employees based on their potential rather than solely their experience.

“In 2023, the hybrid working model remained prevalent. However, over a quarter of employers acknowledged losing out on potential hires due to their inability to meet remote and hybrid work expectations. 42% of employers are now encouraging their employees in Ireland to return to the office more frequently. The main motivations behind this shift include enhancing employee collaboration, strengthening company culture, and boosting overall performance. Only 8% of employees expressed a desire to work in the office five days a week. In contrast, 50% of surveyed Irish employees are open to accepting a reduced salary in exchange for the work flexibility they desire.

“As we look ahead to the next year, the salary landscape for most professional fields appears set to remain stable, tracking closely with an estimated inflation rate of around 3%. However, it’s important to recognise that this status quo will not apply across all professional jobs. In certain niche positions and industries facing severe skills shortages, we can expect notable deviations from this standard. These sectors will diverge from the broader trend, presenting more pronounced salary increases of up to 15% for professionals with highly sought-after skills, primarily in pockets of Technology, Engineering, Construction, Life Sciences, and Financial Services sectors.

“Furthermore, we’re observing a notable shift in the job-seeking behaviour of Irish professionals, indicating that the ‘Great Resignation’, a term coined to describe the surge in employees leaving their jobs, may be subsiding. Our research reveals that only 36% of professionals surveyed are planning to actively explore new employment opportunities within the next six months. This marks a 17% decline from the previous year, reflecting a change in the mindset of professionals. We are witnessing a shift towards more cautious decision-making, particularly as professionals assess the job market amidst ongoing economic uncertainties.

“We anticipate that employers’ focus for hiring in 2024 will be two-fold. Companies will continue to adopt a discerning approach to recruitment, carefully assessing the necessity of each replacement before making hiring decisions and ensuring that such hires are productive and add value to the bottom line. Secondly, we expect leaders to concentrate on retaining their talent and matching the expectations of their employees around flexible working practices, career advancement opportunities, and a supportive company culture.”

Sectoral Highlights:

Accounting and Finance

Most in demand positions for 2024: Newly Qualified Accountant in Big 4/Top 10 Firms, Senior Accountant, Tax Accountant, Tax Manager, Finance Business Partner/ FP&A Manager.

The Accounting and Finance sector in Ireland encountered numerous challenges throughout 2023. Despite the constraints, organisations continued to hire, showing a preference for temporary roles over permanent and fixed-term contracts. However, there were fewer available positions compared to previous years when hiring reached unprecedented levels.

Indications towards the latter end of 2023, show optimistic plans to return to hiring activities across a wide range of sectors. Senior professionals can expect their salaries to remain relatively stable, primarily owing to the limited availability of job openings and reduced competitive pressure. Conversely, individuals within the range of Newly Qualified to 3 years PQE can look forward to increased compensation, driven by a talent deficit exacerbated by emigration. These patterns are expected to persist into 2024.

There will be more of a focus on hiring professionals with strong transversal skills with an emphasis on stakeholder management as navigating a hybrid working environment continues. Additionally, those accounting and finance professionals skilled in Big Data analytics, data management and Big Data reporting will be in highest demand in 2024 as transactional work will continue to become automated.

Accountants will play a wider role in developing and implementing ESG reporting strategies and we expect to see greater demand for accountants for ESG reporting through 2024.

Banking and Financial Services

Most in demand positions for 2024: Pension administrators, Claims Specialists, Risk Managers, Insurance Commercial Brokers, Insurance Underwriters, Treasury Managers and Treasury Analysts.

Throughout 2023, the Banking and Financial Services sector remained active, characterised by a significant surge in contract hiring. Skill shortages, especially in roles requiring in-demand expertise and experience, made professionals with relevant qualifications particularly sought after. However, the reduction in new roles in the market throughout 2023 has shifted the balance of power toward hiring companies.

Growing risks in climate change will continue to drive increased demand for claims and underwriting professionals throughout 2024 with claims administrators, claims assessors, claims handlers and insurance underwriters all anticipated to be in high demand.

Salaries within the sector have remained stable due to the reduction in available positions, which has lessened the competitive hiring landscape. This change implies that job seekers may need to reassess their salary expectations when seeking new opportunities.

Technology

Most in demand positions for 2024: Software Developer, Web Developer, DevOps/Cloud Engineer, Infrastructure Engineer, QA Engineer/ SDET, Cloud Infrastructure Engineer, Information Security Specialist, Operation Technology Security Specialist, Security Architect, Solutions Architect, Enterprise Architect, Data Analyst, Data Scientist and Data Engineer.

The Technology market witnessed a temporary softening in the middle of 2023, which led to a scarcity of roles. However, there was an overall increase in contract opportunities as organisations adopted a cautious yet optimistic approach. The sentiment among organisations is generally positive, with signs that hiring momentum is on the horizon in 2024.

The market indicates there will be a persistent need for cybersecurity professionals, particularly as the deadline for Member States to comply with the updated NIS 2 Directive approaches in October 2024. The demand for cybersecurity experts is rising, leading to a rapid expansion in the talent pool, which has grown by 35% year on year.

In 2023, tech salaries in Ireland saw modest increases, impacted by inflation and a talent shortage, resulting in a supply and demand effect. Counteroffers became more common, with employers offering top-performing professionals salary hikes of 15-20% to retain them. For 2024, salary increases are expected to stabilise in most fields as tech talent increasingly shows a willingness to accept reduced pay in exchange for fully remote work options. It’s worth noting that the technology sector remains the most open to remote work among employers.

Legal, Risk, and Compliance

Most in demand positions for 2024: Corporate Lawyer, Energy Lawyers, Data Protection/Privacy Lawyer, Employment Lawyer, Investment Funds Lawyer, Company Secretary, Risk Analyst, Claims Handler, Risk Manager, Model Risk Analyst, Compliance Manager, Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Regulatory Officer, and Financial Crime Officer.

In 2023, the Legal, Risk, and Compliance sectors encountered talent shortages and struggled with prolonged hiring processes focused on specific skill sets and experience.

Global geopolitical factors such as the war in Ukraine and escalating conflict in Israel-Gaza has had a knock-on impact on the requirement for legal services as corporate lawyers will continue to be in high demand in 2024 to navigate business challenges such as supply chain/logistics disruptions, economic volatility caused by inflationary pressures, suspending of operations in certain countries etc.

Additionally, the EU’s commitment to climate neutrality by 2050 and global efforts to decarbonise the economy are creating opportunities for energy lawyers, making them highly sought after in 2024.

Looking ahead to 2024, there’s optimism for improved economic conditions and more flexible budget constraints, potentially leading to increased hiring. However, it is expected that salaries will remain unchanged, as post-COVID raises have already been incorporated into compensation packages.

Life Sciences and Engineering

Most in demand positions for 2024: Quantity Surveyor, Site Engineer, Construction Project Manager, Resident Engineer / Project Supervisor, Health & Safety Officer, Process Engineer, Project Engineer, Automation Engineer, CQV Engineer, QA Specialist, Qualified Person (QP), Validation Engineer, QC Analyst, Laboratory Manager, and R&D Engineer.

Ireland remains an attractive location for biopharma investments, with a significant increase in Life Sciences research and development investments over the past 11 years. Multinationals like BD, Siemens Healthineers, Boston Scientific, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and Meissner Corporation have made investments in this sector in 2023, with further growth anticipated in permanent and contract hiring, especially in contract roles.

The Engineering sector has seen consistent hiring, with a growing demand for senior-level positions to build a talent base before expanding junior roles. Increased investment in manufacturing and environmental sectors has boosted demand for professionals in these areas. Energy and Sustainability Engineers, with skills in LEAN and BREEAM, will be highly sought after in 2024 and beyond.

The return of the Irish diaspora and the influx of international talent, primarily from South Africa and India, are expected to continue in 2024, with a focus on planning and scheduling skills for large projects.

Skills shortages, particularly in automation, have posed hiring challenges. Electrical engineers have seen substantial salary increases (10%) due to their scarcity in the market. Salaries for construction professionals are expected to remain high in 2024 due to ongoing skills shortages, creating significant opportunities for recent graduates. For instance, newly qualified CAD designers could command €28k, fresh civil engineering graduates may secure €36k, and inexperienced Quantity Surveyors could earn a €40k salary. These graduate salaries are competing very favourably with other sectors which typically dictated the higher end of earning potential for new graduate salaries such as technology and investment management within financial services.

Supply Chain and Procurement

Most in demand positions for 2024: Planners, Procurement/Buyers, and Supply Chain Project Manager.

Recruitment in the supply chain and procurement sector maintained a consistent momentum throughout 2023, with a focus on permanent positions. However, a limited supply of talent led organisations to consider contractors to bridge immediate skills gaps. The majority of supply chain professionals typically come from outside Ireland, and the increased cost of living in the country has restricted the flow of professionals relocating for work.

The biggest skills gap going into 2024 exists in lower-level operator roles within the food and beverage industry where the existing workforce falls short of the industry’s demands. This discrepancy can be attributed to less favourable working conditions and comparatively lower remuneration when contrasted with alternative sectors and this is likely to be addressed in the coming year.

Demand in 2024 will also be high for supervisors in key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and food and beverage and we expect to see some salary inflation in this position.

While salary experienced an initial increase in early 2023, the evolving market dynamics resulted in stabilised rates. Professionals with niche expertise can still command salary increases when changing roles, but overall, salaries are predicted to be flat through 2024.

Business Support

Most in demand positions for 2024: Executive Assistant, Office Manager, Graduates, Office Administrator and Receptionist

Business support hiring in Ireland exhibited a significant uptick in long-term temporary roles, often managed through agencies. This trend reflects organisations with headcount constraints that still need to complete essential tasks. However, permanent recruitment faced challenges, with many companies exercising caution. The competition for experienced talent intensified, leading to longer interview processes.

It is anticipated that permanent salaries are unlikely to see significant changes in 2024. However, temporary and contract professionals may command higher hourly/ daily rates. This shift is driven by organisations showing more flexibility and offering competitive rates to attract short-term talent.

Executive Roles

Most in demand positions for 2024: CEO, COO, CFO, CTO and SVP Quality and in more niche positions such as Chief Growth Officer, Head of Sustainability/ESG, Chief Revenue Officer, Chief Transformation Officer, Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Digital Officer.

In 2023, the executive job market displayed resilience despite fluctuations in demand across different sectors. The financial services sector maintained a strong demand for leaders with regulatory expertise and technological proficiency. Executives, while open to new opportunities, often preferred to retain their current positions, leading to extended negotiation periods and more frequent counteroffers.

The demands for hiring Executives in the new post pandemic world has expanded immeasurably, with C-Suite professionals now being hired for growth against a backdrop of digital transformation, agenda to strike a DEI balance and a requirement for a track record in leading remote teams. All of this coupled with an organisational need to be sustainable and profitable.

In 2024, we expect to see a continuation of the trend of organisations leaning more on data and analytics to identify the right leadership talent which resulted in greater collaboration with Executive Search Providers and availing of deep market mapping services.

HR

Most in demand Positions for 2024: HR Business Partner, HR Generalist, HR Administrator, HR Data analyst, Benefits Analyst and Rewards Manager.

In the HR field, the recruitment market faced challenges in the first half of 2023 due to an oversupply of senior talent acquisition professionals, particularly influenced by developments in Tech in the previous year. However, in 2024, HR professionals are expected to take on an expanded role, focusing on enhancing the overall employee experience, accommodating various work models (hybrid/ remote), and supporting employee development and well-being. This shift will require the presence of Strategic HR Business Partners to drive ethical growth and HR administrators to manage increased legislative and GDPR responsibilities. Salaries for HR professionals remained relatively stable, and this trend is anticipated to continue in 2024.

Multilingual

Most in demand Multilingual positions for 2024: Sales Development Representative, Account Executive, Customer Service Representative, Business Development Representative.

The multilingual job market remains adaptable to economic conditions and industry fluctuations, with increased demand in financial services and pharmaceutical sectors expected in 2024. Despite a marginal decrease in demand from the Tech sector in 2023, remote work and hybrid models continue to influence hiring decisions for this talent cohort. Multilingual candidates express a preference for flexible work options when choosing employers.

Attractive compensation and benefits play a significant role in attracting and retaining top talent in this segment.  We expect to see a slight uptick in salaries for Sales and Service-related positions in 2024, especially for languages in high demand, such as German, Dutch, and the Nordic languages.

Projects and Change

Most in demand positions for 2024: Project Managers – IT & Business, Programme Managers, Transformation Specialists, ERP PM & Programme and PMOs – Analysts, Leads, Managers.

In 2024, there is a strong demand for Projects, Strategy, and Change professionals to support various industry needs, including Tech Transformation, Automation, ERP System Upgrades, Leadership, Cultural Change, Cybersecurity, Operational Risk, Resilience, and Outsourcing Advisory.

These professionals have shown a growing preference for contract employment, a trend expected to continue through 2024 due to the anticipated demand for their skills in both the public and private sectors. Contracting offers financial advantages and flexibility, making it more appealing than permanent roles in this field. It enables organisations to manage fluctuations in business needs while accessing new capabilities.

Salary increases are the primary motivators for project and change professionals to change employers. While daily rates for Mid to Senior-level Project Managers and Business Analysts remained stable in 2023, transformation roles experienced salary boosts, a trend likely to continue into 2024.

Sales and Marketing

Most in demand positions for 2024: Sales Representative, Technical Sales Representative, Area Sales Manager, Business Development Manager, Sales Manager, Communications Manager, Brand Manager, Content Strategists, Digital Marketing Specialist/ Manager, Marketing Executive/Manager and Head of Marketing, Research Analyst

In 2023, Sales and Marketing recruitment remained stable, with a slight increase in the junior market. Multinationals hired less experienced sales talent and trained them to adapt to rapidly changing markets. However, enterprise sales professionals still preferred candidates with relevant experience.

In 2024, the focus is expected to shift toward sales performance, with a proven track record becoming a critical factor in hiring decisions. Market Research Analysts will also be in high demand as companies seek more insights for strategic growth.

Brand Managers with skills in design, social media marketing, digital marketing, content marketing, and market research will continue to be sought after in 2024. Content strategists are also expected to see increased demand as they help drive inbound traffic and foster customer loyalty, contributing to organisational growth. Value-based hiring will be a key consideration for all marketing hires in 2024.

Full Survey

All You Need To Know About SCM And It’s Benefits

Do you know how important Supply Chain Management (SCM) is for your business? SCM has become a critical part of the modern business world, helping companies increase their efficiency and profitability. It’s an essential step if you wish to survive and thrive in today’s competitive landscape. But with so many moving pieces, understanding SCM can be intimidating – until now! In this article, we’ll discuss exactly what Supply Chain Management is, why it matters, its potential benefits to your company, and steps that must be taken to implement a successful SCM system. Keep reading if you want to discover all there is to know about Supply Chain Management and how it can improve your operations!

What is SCM 

Supply chain management (SCM) is the art of managing the flow of goods, services, and information from the point of origin to the point of consumption. In a business setting, SCM is an essential component that can help optimize operations by reducing costs, increasing efficiency, and improving overall customer satisfaction. This is done by integrating all aspects of procurement, production, and logistics to form a cohesive system that can respond quickly to changing demands. A well-designed SCM system can provide a competitive advantage by empowering companies to offer faster delivery times, higher-quality products, and better customer service. Whether it’s a global corporation or a small business, effective supply chain management is vital to long-term success in today’s fast-paced economy.

How to get a SCM degree

In today’s competitive business landscape, holding a degree in Supply Chain Management (SCM) can offer a significant edge. To further enhance your SCM knowledge and increase your career prospects, consider enrolling in a specialized program at sites such as SCMEDU.org, which are educational platforms dedicated solely to the field of Supply Chain Management. A degree in SCM provides comprehensive knowledge about the interconnected elements of the supply chain, from procurement and production to distribution and customer service. It equips students with the skills needed to analyze and improve business processes, implement strategic sourcing, manage logistics, and use data-driven approaches to optimize operations. Moreover, an SCM degree often includes studies in related areas like logistics, operations management, and information systems, offering a holistic understanding of business functions. Universities and colleges around the world offer SCM degrees at various levels – from undergraduate programs to master’s and doctoral degrees – each designed to prepare students for roles in different aspects of SCM.

Benefits of implementing SCM 

SCM can bring numerous benefits to businesses of all sizes. For instance, it can help reduce costs by optimizing the flow of goods and services, minimizing waste, and improving coordination among different departments. SCM also improves the quality and consistency of products, which enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty. Furthermore, SCM benefits companies by enhancing their agility and ability to respond quickly to changes in market demand. Overall, implementing SCM in your business process can have a positive impact on your bottom line, as well as your reputation and long-term success.

Key components of an effective SCM system 

The key components of an effective SCM system are integration, collaboration, flexibility, and visibility. Integration involves the seamless connection of different departments, systems, and partners involved in the supply chain. Collaboration is essential for effective communication, cooperation, and coordination between all stakeholders. Flexibility is necessary to adapt to unexpected changes in the supply chain, while visibility enables real-time monitoring and control of operations. Together, these components enhance the agility, efficiency, and reliability of the SCM system, enabling businesses to meet customer demands and outperform their competitors.

Different types of supply-chain solutions

Supply-chain management is an essential aspect of any business, and finding the right solution can make all the difference. Fortunately, there are several types of supply-chain solutions available in the market today. Some of these include cloud-based solutions, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, and transportation management systems (TMS). Each of these options has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it crucial to choose the one that best fits your needs. With the help of these supply-chain solutions, companies can streamline their processes, reduce errors, and improve overall efficiency. The key is to understand your business requirements and explore the available options to make an informed decision.

Challenges associated with SCM and how to overcome them 

The globalized and competitive business environment has presented various challenges to it. One of the prominent challenges is managing the complex and multi-layered supply chain. From procurement and transportation to inventory management and customer service, SCM involves numerous stakeholders and activities. Another hurdle is the increasing demand for customization and personalization, which puts pressure on companies to implement more agile and flexible supply chain processes. To overcome these challenges, organizations must adopt technology-driven solutions, implement data analytics and automation, cultivate closer collaboration with suppliers and customers, and continuously review and optimize their supply chain network. Only then can they thrive in today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape.

Supply Chain Management (SCM) is an integral component of any successful business in today’s global economy. Whether it’s a small enterprise or a multinational corporation, SCM facilitates the efficient flow of products from the producer to the consumer, enhancing productivity, reducing costs, and improving customer satisfaction. Implementing an effective SCM system requires a keen understanding of its key components, the ability to navigate the various solutions available, and the agility to overcome the associated challenges. The pursuit of an SCM degree can provide the requisite knowledge and skills, offering a competitive edge in the business world. Ultimately, effective SCM practices can contribute significantly to a company’s bottom line and its long-term success.

Employers urged to establish whistleblowing reporting channels in advance of December deadline

As the implementation of the upcoming amendments to the Protected Disclosures Act approaches, the Compliance Institute are calling on the new cohort of Irish employers falling under the Act’s remit, to take the necessary steps to ensure they meet their new obligations.

From the 17th of December 2023, the scope of the Act will expand to include all organisations with 50 or more employees. The Compliance Institute, which is a representative body, consisting of 3,500 Compliance Professionals working in sectors across the economy, predominantly in the financial sector, are strongly advising these organisations that will be impacted by the changes to ensure they have begun the work necessary to establish internal channels for their workers who wish to report any wrongdoing in the workplace.

The new legislation stipulates that these organisations must appoint a designated person or function to operate the required internal reporting channel .

All entities governed by EU laws and regulations pertaining to financial services, anti-money laundering, counter-terrorism financing, transport safety, and safety of offshore gas and oil operations are obliged to create internal reporting channels – irrespective of size. Additionally, this requirement applies universally to all public sector organisations irrespective of their size.

Michael Kavanagh, CEO of the Compliance Institute commented,

“The scope of this Act is vast – it applies to individuals in the public, private, and non-profit sectors and now includes board members, shareholders, volunteers, and job applicants, in addition to the original scope of employees, agency workers, contractors, and trainees.

Employers must be proactive in adapting to the new legal requirements and the advice is not to delay in putting the wheels in motion to ensure they are fully compliant when December rolls around”.

“This law is imperative to foster a safe environment for those who want to speak up and raise concerns about possible wrongdoing they witness in the workplace”.

“Wrongdoing” covered by the Act includes criminal offences, failure to comply with legal obligations, endangering the health and safety of individuals, breaches of European Union laws, causing damage to the environment, misuse of public funds, or attempts to conceal or destroy evidence of such wrongdoings. The legislation also protects those who make a ‘protected disclosure’ otherwise known as a whistleblower, from dismissal or penalisation for reporting possible wrongdoing. Anonymous whistleblowers are also safeguarded in the event that their identity becomes known. Even if the disclosed information is proved to be incorrect, individuals are still protected, providing they have reasonable belief that the information is true.

Mr Kavanagh explained what employers will need to look at in advance of December,

“The operational framework that must be put in place will encompass maintaining communication with the reporting party, diligent follow-up on the report made, and providing feedback to the reporting individual. The designated individual must possess the requisite authority to fulfil the Act’s specified functions and possess the necessary expertise in managing reports. Organisations have the option to delegate this role externally if necessary”.

Mr. Kavanagh added,

“The emphasis on guaranteeing the confidentiality of those reporting misconduct is crucial as, it not only encourages reporting but also protects individuals from potential retaliation, fostering a culture of trust and accountability within the workplace. The role of operating the channel is a pivotal one. It is their responsibility to ensure that there is accountability and expertise in managing the entire reporting process, from receipt of the report to its resolution in accordance with legal requirements”.

Failure to establish the appropriate internal channels may result in criminal penalties. Penalisation or making threats of penalisation to an individual who has reported workplace wrongdoing is also now a criminal offence under Section 12 of the Act.

Mr. Kavanagh concluded,

“The Act places a significant legal obligation on employers to ensure they have the necessary reporting infrastructure in place. It also sends a clear message that any form of intimidation or retaliation will not be tolerated, thereby reinforcing the Act’s commitment to fostering a safe reporting environment for whistleblowers. If workplace misconduct is detected early and addressed promptly, it is hugely beneficial for the organisation in question. Employers have until the 17th of December to get the infrastructure in place to avoid legal penalties”.

10 Profitable Business Ideas You Can Start From Home

Technology has changed the business landscape and enabled anyone to start a company from the comfort of their residence. Whether you are looking for a job to supplement your income or replace your full-time career, there are many business ideas to consider. Finding a specialty that aligns with your interests, skills, or talents is essential to succeed. Starting a home-based business provides financial security, a good work-life balance, and increases productivity. If you have been looking for great ideas for your next start-up, here are ten profitable hustles you can launch from home.

1 – Virtual assistance

A virtual assistant helps business owners in the day-to-day running of their company by handling administrative tasks. While having previous experience as an executive assistant may not be necessary for this role, being tech-savvy and having certain specialized skills like bookkeeping will be beneficial. Your responsibilities in this role will not vary from that of an in-person aide. However, you will have the freedom to work autonomously and remotely. It is essential that you learn how to manage your time efficiently if you want to excel in this venture. To become a virtual assistant, you will need to familiarize yourself with the necessary software and build a portfolio. Registering on freelance work apps can also help you land a full-time or contract job. Ensure you advertise your projects and sharpen your interview skills to impress your employers.

2 – Catering business

Serving delicious food can be an endearing way to make people happy and make money.  If you enjoy cooking, you can turn it into something more. The good news is you can start a catering business from the comfort of your home. However, before you embrace the thought, contact your area or state’s regulatory board to determine if you can do this. Next, draw a business plan. Having one will give you a detailed overview of your goals and the overhead cost involved. However, to attract customers, consider market research. Knowing what your competitors are selling will help you pick the right niche, draft a unique menu, and build your brand. Ensure your kitchen is up-to-date with the latest tools and equipment. Complying with the board’s hygienic laws and conditions would be best. Getting all the necessary permits and licenses will also protect your business from a shutdown. Once everything is in place, market your services online or host tastings to build your customer base.

3 – Dog grooming

Becoming a dog groomer can be satisfying, especially if you have a soft spot for canines. You can care for and engage with dogs of different breeds and sizes. While training might not be needed in certain locations, participating in an accredited course and gaining hands-on skills will give your business credibility and fill your clients with confidence. If you are not interested in a course, you can gather information or tips from other experienced groomers or tons of content online. Decide what kind of services you would like to offer beyond the basic care of bathing, drying, brushing, and clipping, and get the tools for them. To make pricing easier, offer packages and special treatments. Designate an area in your home and make it comfy with toys, treats, and equipment. Ensure you also get business insurance to protect your business in your care in case of unforeseen accidents. 

4 – Start a blog

Blogging has been around for a long time and is a popular way to share information. Whether you are an expert on a subject matter or you love to write, blogging is creative and lucrative. Do you have extensive knowledge of cars? Are you passionate about the beauty industry? Garner an online audience with your posts and monetize your blog with sponsorships and affiliate links. Though you can gain considerable profit, knowing that growth won’t happen overnight is vital. You will need to put in the work to ensure your website ranks well and gets enough visitors to generate income, as emphasized by bizop. You might also need to learn new skills like website design. Explore free templates on design platforms and begin today.

5 – Home daycare business

 

Daycare is a gigantic industry, as many busy parents need a trustworthy childcare provider who will cater to their young ones while at work. If you have an educational background or experience in childcare, it might be time to get your license and start your own business. Examine your living space and renovate it to make it safe for infants and toddlers. Purchase kid-sized furniture and age-appropriate toys for entertainment. You can also get educational materials and high tables for meal times. Keep a first-aid kit handy for small accidents and ensure your outdoor area is conducive to outdoor activities. You can also join online communities and introduce yourself and the services you are offering. You can start with one child and work on building a solid reputation so other parents can entrust you with their wards.

6 – Sell online courses

In today’s digital world, anyone can easily access and learn a skill online. Capitalizing on your skills and creating a course can be a wonderful way to make passive income. There are various topics, but it is advisable to stick to something you are familiar with or proficient with. This gives you credibility as a master and demonstrates that you have invested considerable time in perfecting your skills. Starting an online class does not demand huge capital. You only need a camera, internet, course material, and a professional editor. However, it would be best if you validated the demand for your skill. It would be disappointing to spend weeks or months compiling your material only to realize there is no interest in it. One marketing strategy you can use to avoid this is pre-selling. This will help you compile a customer list and prevent you from wasting your time and money.

7 – Online dating coach

Are you a people person? Have you always had a knack for matchmaking or giving the best advice regarding relationships? Many single people are searching for true love, and navigating the dating scene alone can be overwhelming for them sometimes. You can offer your experience and knowledge to them for a fee through consulting. You can offer services such as helping them overcome love blocks, teaching communication skills, and fine-tuning their dating profiles. Pick a dating niche and develop your content around it. Do you want to help people overcome a breakup, or are you interested in helping them reach their fullest potential to get their desired partners? If you love the work of a particular agency, you can get a certification from them or get training and become one of their coaches. You can go further by sharing your insight on platforms like YouTube and offering your followers free and paid courses or coaching sessions.

8 – Dropshipping

You don’t need an inventory to sell anything with the dropshipping business model, which makes it appealing. All you need to do is show your customers your content, and when sales are confirmed, you contact the wholesale distributor to deliver. You act as the middle person and marketer while you make a profit off the resale markups. This business is low-cost as there is no inventory, and easy to start. Find a dropshipper who sells products at a reasonable price, register on an online marketplace like Amazon, build an ecommerce store, and resell the goods at your price for extra money. 

9 – Professional photography

A photography business can be a beautiful path to explore. You get to capture beautiful moments and get paid for it. It is a remarkably evolving field; if you are passionate about it, you can make a name for yourself. First, you must sharpen your capturing skills and focus on one or two areas. It can be wedding photography or editorial shooting. Establishing your brand could take a while, so building a portfolio and starting small would be best. You can speak to your family and friends and ask them to allow you to cover their events for free. Create a profile on platforms like Instagram and showcase your work. You can also collaborate with other photographers on freelance gigs to gain popularity. Ensure you keep learning, and don’t hesitate to invest in the right equipment. 

10 – Event planning business

 

 

If you consider yourself to be an organized person, you will surely flourish in this field. Milestones are celebrated every day, and there will always be a demand for planners. Most people don’t have the project management skills or time to assemble their dream event, so why not offer assistance at a fee? If you aren’t confident enough about the idea, experiment with family functions or church activities and acquire leadership skills. Determine your preferred business entity and get insurance for your rental properties and equipment. It is also essential to have good communication skills as it is the basis of this business.

Becoming your boss and attaining the freedom you desire begins with an idea. Choose one that resonates with you and start your entrepreneurial journey today.