EMEA News
London Maritime Hiring at 4 Year High, Commercial Vacancies up 20%
The London maritime industry has ramped up its hiring to the highest point in four years and is trying to lure recruits with higher bonuses, shipping industry recruiter Faststream reports in an emailed press release.
The firm says vacancies for commercial positions with shipowners, insurers, and consultancies have risen 20 percent since the start of 2013.
"We sense that our clients are feeling much more positive about the future and are especially hiring people in business development and commercial roles," said CEO Mark Charman.
"Freight rates may still be low and business tough for many, but the volume of maritime related hires in the UK is much higher than it has been at any point over the past four years which is good news for us all."
While base salaries have not risen, Faststream says bonus packages are up, and in commercial jobs at shipping companies they are now 30 to 40 percent of salaries.
The firm said the UK is attractive to Asian shipowners and other companies that want a European base, and the decision by major containership alliance P3 to set up its headquarters there has boosted the city's status.
Charman said Europeans and Asians often like the idea of working in London but sometimes do not realize how expensive the city is.
He added that, despite London's appeal, Singapore continues to be seen as the city with the most opportunities for candidates.
"The increasing movement eastwards of shipping has opened up numerous opportunities, especially in the bulk markets," he said.
"Employers in London know that they are competing with businesses in Europe and Asia for top talent."
The London-based P3 Network Centre is set to start operations in six months.
