British-based banks looking to recruit up to 800 Irish bankers

A NUMBER of British-based banks are seeking to recruit as many as 800 Irish bankers offering annual pay packets of up to €88,000.

The recent pick-up in the British economy and an increased focus on compliance is motivating banks to boost employee numbers, according to recruitment company Hays Ireland.

The majority of vacancies are for bankers with accountancy backgrounds, with salaries ranging between £50,000 (€55,000) and £80,000.

Hays Ireland managing director Richard Eardley said: “British banks are already feeling the first winds of recovery and in recent weeks we have seen a very significant increase in the demand for bankers.

“At the same time the increased focus on compliance means many firms are also beefing up their internal audit function.”

While banks are often the first to lay off staff during a recession they are also the first to start hiring again.

Hays Ireland is seeking to fill 800 vacancies for the following positions: management accountant, financial accountant, lead financial accountant, financial accounting manager, financial control and reporting manager, internal audit, financial analyst, and senior financial planning and analysis.

“We have been given the very clear message that UK banks like Irish employees,” said Eardley. “The banking systems are very similar so they know the skills of Irish applicants travel well.”