Oil and gas sector expected to generate jobs

Recruitment got off to a good start in Durban in 2014, especially on the operational side, with many companies in hiring mood thanks to the improved business environment, according to Durban-based director of Lee Botti and Associates, Jill Morris. Skills shortages, however, continue to plague the freight and logistics industry, said Morris. “And not just in the Durban market but nationally. Our clients are often looking for very specific skills sets, with little room for training offered.” And finding the skills required is not always easy. According to Morris, there is a particular need for experienced clearing and forwarding sales people to increase the Durban market share of the business, which is generally renowned as being a tough market in which to sell. “Most companies, however, are recruiting on skills, as there is not enough time and resources to train staff, and a great deal of focus is being put on achieving results,” explained Morris. “In this regard it has been busier than was the case in 2013, with operational staff highly sought after.” But that’s on condition, said Morris, that staff are skilled and able to walk in and do the job required. Despite the upturn in recruitment, it has not been all good news. One or two specific sectors within the industry have hit harder times and there have been instances where companies have been forced to downsize departments or re-strategise their business. “We have seen some job losses,” said Morris. “But the outlook overall in Durban is very positive – especially in light of the major growth into Africa that we are seeing. Developments in areas such as the oil and gas sector will impact positively in the long run.” Morris said they were seeing a great deal of focus put into development within the ports on the continent in terms of infrastructure, petrol pipelines as well as expansion into rail cargo. “These developments are expected to have a positive effect overall, but especially within the freight and logistics industry. We expect that this will lead to new job opportunities and growth of the industry overall in the long run.” INSERT & CAPTION Most companies are recruiting on skills as there is not enough time and resources to train staff, and a great deal of focus is being put on achieving results. – Jill Morris