18.02.08 RECRUITING SPECIALISTS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE

The acquisition and disposal of companies and businesses in Aberdeen represents a
disproportionate percentage of M&A activity in Scotland.  This brings challenges for legal and accounting professions.

Dugald MacPherson, partner in charge of the recently established Campbell Dallas Chartered Accountants in Aberdeen, said: "The biggest challenge I face is recruiting the top-class specialists I require to meet the demands of our current and prospective clients".

He has no doubt that the shortage of suitably qualified candidates is being exacerbated by the voracious needs of the banking sector to meet the staffing needs.  To fill gaps, banks have turned to the chartered accountancy profession.

The completion from the banks in the second half of the 1990's and into the 21st century, with the offer of unheard of salaries and bonuses within the banking profession, is said to have put significant strain on the CA profession in terms of staffing.

Dugald MacPherson said: "it takes 10 years to produce a talented CA and the supply tap cannot just be turned on and off at will.  With increasing demand and a vibrant market, the difficulties in Aberdeen are not compounded.

Publication: The Press & Journal
Date: 18th February 2008