UK faces process industry challenge and opportunity from Germany

Hamburg-based recruiter Employland reports that employers were dealing with a 1 million-plus shortfall in the third quarter of last year and an improved economy is likely to increase the labour demand.

Top of the list of professions being sought by bosses were engineers, technicians, tradespeople, IT specialists and healthcare professionals.

International recruitment is not likely to be limited to university graduates, says the company. The German government’s so-called ‘white list’ includes a total of 110 occupations with a “significant” shortage of recruits.

There is one predictable catch however – recruits have to be able to understand German.

“Basic knowledge of the German language is indispensable for living and working in Germany,” said an Employland spokeswoman.

“Appropriate language courses and support from your future employer can help you improve your level of German once you are in Germany – but it is difficult to find a job without any German skills at all.”

Meanwhile, British manufacturers are gearing up to ensure Brexit does not dent their ability to develop the German market for their exports.

Static mixing specialists Statiflo have appointed a dedicated European sales manager to ensure growth post-Brexit on the continent, with a focus on Germany.

Frankfurt-based Axel Schmidt (pictured above) joins the company from Pentair, where he was northern and central European sales manager.

Statiflo sales director Ron Russ said: “He will play a key role as we bolster our European business in the run-up to Brexit, by focusing on developing our position in the German market and other European countries, by recruiting new business partners and by targeting sectors where we see strong expansion opportunities.”

The firm boasts annual revenues of more than £5 million through activities in the water and wastewater treatment industries, oil and gas, petrochemical, food, pharmaceutical, pulp and paper sectors.

With subsidiaries in the United States and Germany, it exports to 80 countries worldwide including 14 in Europe, where its business partners distribute its products and provide advice and support to customers.

Schmidt remarked: “I’m delighted to join Statiflo and lead its European sales operations. There are fantastic opportunities for growth across a range of industries.”