Outlook 2012
Although the private practice market in Australia has cooled a little in many areas in comparison to early 2011, demand is still strong for candidates with a good academic background, at least 2 years relevant experience and strong interpersonal skills. Banking, corporate finance, construction, projects and tax lawyers are still in demand and we expect this to continue throughout the year across all major state capitals.
The strength of the in-house legal recruitment market really depends on sector-specific and geographical factors. For example, candidates with projects, infrastructure and construction experience are in demand across most states whereas oil & gas experience is sought urgently in WA and Queensland. The banking and finance market is quiet and there is little likelihood that this will improve during 2012 to any significant extent. Typically at least 4 years relevant experience is sought by clients for in-house vacancies.
The Compliance and risk management market looks set to be a relatively quiet in 2012. The second half of 2011 heralded job losses and recruitment freezes for compliance professionals in the banking and financial services sectors and we foresee a relatively quiet year ahead in recruitment terms.