IBM is NZ's most attractive ICT employer

IBM has been named the most attractive employer in New Zealand’s ICT market in the latest Randstad Employer Brand Research report.

IBM, which was also named one of the top 20 most attractive employers in New Zealand overall, was recognised for its financial health, its ability to offer employees career progression, and the provision of an attractive salary and benefits.

Telco One New Zealand was the second most prized IT sector employer for being financially healthy, and for offering a convenient location and job security. Datacom was third due to its financial health, opportunities for career progression, and job security.

Meanwhile the IT and telecommunications sector was named the 10th most attractive industry sector, according to Randstad GM for Technologies Tony Grantham.

“The sector remains a significant contributor to the New Zealand economy, with the continued growth in digitalisation investments and public cloud adoption driving demand for IT skills,” he said.

“This reinforces the sector’s position as one of the most attractive industries for candidates who are looking for the whole package — a great place to work, attractive salary and benefits, and long-term career opportunities.”

The survey suggests that New Zealand employees most prioritise work–life balance when choosing where to work, followed by an attractive salary and benefits and good training.

Randstad New Zealand Country Director Richard Kennedy said that, perhaps unsurprisingly in the current economic climate, employees are placing an increasing focus on remuneration benefits as well as exploring personal career growth options in areas including reskilling (67%) and upskilling (76%).

“The competition for talent in New Zealand remains tight, particularly in areas like IT, health care and education,” he said.

“With low unemployment, candidates have more choice at home and further afield. It is more critical than ever for employers to stand out by offering both financial and non-remuneration benefits combined, including professional development and flexible work options to keep talent onshore.”

But the findings do suggest that only 16% of employees changed employers in the last six months, down from 24% last year, Kennedy added.

“This indicates that the ‘revolving door’ of three to six months ago has slowed considerably. Instead, workers are hunkering down with their employers to ride out the current market uncertainty,” he said.

“The challenge for New Zealand businesses now becomes identifying ways to de-risk the move for employees wanting to move but needing the certainty of job security.”

Image credit: iStock.com/Ketut Agus Suardika