BD, Marketing and Communications Market Insights Q1 2017

Published on 16^th January 2017

​After a quiet summer following the referendum result we have seen a strong increase in job opportunities within professional services at all levels.

In the legal industry and built environment areas, most of the demand has come off the back of replacement hiring and restructuring, whilst in management consultancy and accountancy firms we have seen increase in roles due to growth.  

Skills in demand

There has been huge demand and a real shortage of talent at Business Development and Marketing Executive level. 

Bids roles at all levels and Interaction specialists within the legal sector are also in high demand.

These skills shortages have led to firms hiring outside of their sector more than ever to fill positions. This has resulted in salary increases for these roles as well as a rise in a counter offers as firms worry not only about losing their best talent but also replacing them. 

On the agency side we have seen an increase in firms hiring PR specialists.

Mergers and Acquisitions

We have seen a great deal of M&A activity across professional services during the last 18 months and that trend has continued in recent months with some high profile movement, particularly in the legal and consultancy areas.

Predictions for 2017

We expect the current uncertainty in the market to remain during the next quarter and throughout 2017. Early signs suggest continued movement within the legal industry including at Director level.

We expect to see continued growth within the management consultancy space.

Advice for employers

Be prepared to really sell opportunities if you want to secure the best talent. In a candidate short market, talented candidates will have multiple offers so its important that you make your opportunity stand out. If you don’t, your competitors will.

Advice for jobseekers

Really think about what’s important for you when either moving roles or staying at your current firm. It is very tempting to immediately go with the opportunity that pays the most, whether this be a new position or a counter offer made by your current employer, but how does that align with your career aspirations and overall enjoyment of the role? 

BD, Marketing & Communications Salaries Q1 2017

* Notes on salary table

1. Titles and levels vary from organisation to organisation.
2. The salary ranges given are only approximate guides. For tailored salary advice, please contact us directly.
3. 12-month base salaries are assumed.
4. All other benefits and bonuses are in addition to these figures.
5. Bonus ranges can vary significantly from company to company and will be influenced by market conditions, business and individual performances.