Global professionals are increasingly gaining international experience earlier in their careers to advance professionally. The survey found that international experience is seen as important or very important by 59% of employers and 57% see it as an important factor when evaluating candidates. While the US, UK, and Australia remained the most popular destinations, migration is spreading more widely with growth in Africa. Visa restrictions were cited as preventing relocation, particularly to the US and Australia. Working abroad is no longer just for the young, with most respondents being in their 30s or older, reflecting increased mobility at senior levels. Additionally, women were found to work abroad earlier than men, in their 30s rather than 40s.

1. Global
professionals
on the move
—2012
Copyright ©2012 Hydrogen Group plc. All rights reserved — www.hydrogengroup.com

2. Contents Executive summary
ES
Executive summary
01
International experience
key to career success
02
t any given moment there are around a million people in the air, all flying to
Migration more widely spread A ever more far flung destinations. Some go for a weekend, some for a fortnight.
than ever before
A growing number make a career out of it. Where previously people used to move
between floors in an organisation, now they are as likely to move continents.
03
Top destinations missing The third annual ‘Global Professionals on the Move’ report is set against this
out on talent backdrop of global migration of professionals. Its aim is to look at the experience,
attitudes and priorities of highly qualified, high earning professionals with
regard to working abroad and to review the trends year on year.
04
Working abroad is not International experience is more and more a prerequisite for senior professionals.
just for the young Over the last two years, survey respondents have highlighted the increasing
importance of their international experience, this year, the trend is also supported
by clients, with 59% of them saying that they too recognise its worth.
05
Women working abroad Given the career value of gaining international experience, it is significant that the report
earlier in their careers highlights what a positive personal experience it can be. In fact it seems that once tried,
people are in no rush to return to their country of origin. 90% of respondents would go
abroad again and would recommend the experience to others, and one in three now
06
People moving abroad stay consider the country where they live to be home, with only 18% of those already abroad
longer than expected wanting to repatriate in the near future. Remarkably, for 50% of those working abroad, the
experience has been so positive that they are planning to apply for permanent residency.
However, there are challenges to be faced. Although down from last year, 31% of those
07
already abroad said the biggest barrier to moving was finding a job. This could be a sign
Even the best employees are
of a global recovery in the economy but it also supports another key theme to emerge; the
looking for greener grass
importance of using recruitment specialists to help people in their search for a new role.
Reviewing the demographic data highlights the increasing dominance of the over
08
Recruiters play a key role 30s in overseas assignments. Conversely the report reveals that professional
women working overseas do so much earlier in their careers than men. In fact,
the report shows that of the women who were working abroad when responding
to the survey, only 15% are over 40, compared to nearly 50% of the men.
09
Energy sector leads way We have pulled together the key trends around demographics, countries of choice
in overseas relocation and the benefits of working abroad to allow you to understand and be able to
capitalise on the increasing importance of international experience.
10
Hydrogen Group
Technology eases relocation —April 2012
CS
Country spotlight - Australia, Germany,
Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom
AP
Appendix
2

3. Relocating abroad
01 International
experience key to
42%
career success
Already relocated
Yes I would relocate 39%
Would consider relocating abroad 13%
No I wouldn’t relocate abroad 6%
90%
> Relocation accelerated
personal development T
here are many reasons why professionals
choose to live and work overseas. Some
stated that their employers see international
experience as important or very important.
of the day it is a market of 22m compared
to 3.9bn in Asia, so moving to Singapore
“But they don’t because they get put off by all
the hurdles in their path. Certainly there are
“More people recognise that
an overseas stint on their CV
86%
go for new experiences and adventure, some This has increased from 63% in 2011. will take my career to the next level.” many hurdles to overcome. It’s not easy. But can open up a whole tranche
to learn a language, others simply for better Hydrogen clients confirmed this trend: the reward is worth the effort.” of otherwise unavailable
weather. But by far the most popular reason 59% of employers see international He continues: “I’m 28 and have no children, senior roles,” says Raymond
is to develop their careers. After all, at many experience as important or very important, so this is an ideal time to be making moves Morrell is not alone. For the overwhelming Madden, Visiting Professor at
companies, international experience is a and 57% of them see international that develop my career. We’ll stay here for majority who go to work overseas it is a ESCP Europe
prerequisite for tenure of the top jobs. experience on a CV as an important or three to five years and then see what happens. positive experience: 98% of those we surveyed
very important means of distinguishing Whatever we do, I can’t see us going back to said not only that relocating had been a
>
“More people recognise that an overseas between candidates of similar ability. the UK in the near future. Asia is where the positive part of their lives, but also that they
Improved
stint on their CV can open up a whole tranche career opportunities are in my industry. In would recommend relocating to others.
career prospects
of otherwise unavailable senior roles,” The world’s economy is coming together at more developed regions like Europe, North
83%
says Raymond Madden, Visiting Professor an unprecedented rate, and it is becoming America and Australia, much of the broadcast The extent and depth of the benefits of
at ESCP Europe, which conducted the increasingly clear that the top jobs of technology we sell and implement is already in relocation were striking. 90% reported
research project. “This is the third year in tomorrow will go to those who have lifted place, but in Asia it is still a growth market.” that relocation accelerated their personal
a row we have done this survey, and we are their horizons beyond their country of birth. development, and 86% said that it improved
seeing a visible growth in understanding Clearly, those in their 20s and 30s who want their career prospects. 83% saw their salaries
the value of working overseas.” “It has fast tracked my career,” says Ben to be at the top of their professions, need to rise, and 78% enjoyed an improvement in their
Morrell, a UK national by birth who moved to be spending time gathering this international living conditions.
> Saw their
salaries rise
94 % of those who responded to the 2012
survey are considering relocating or have
already done so, and they are taking the step
Sydney upon graduating in 2006, and then,
in August 2011 moved to Singapore to work
as a Bid Manager for a global broadcast
experience. Some like Morrell thrive on it;
others see it as an insurmountable obstacle.
to gain international experience because technology vendor. “I left the UK because I “I have many friends back home who would
they recognise it as a key factor in career didn’t see the career opportunities there,” he love to do what I’m doing,” says Morrell.
success. Supporting this, 72% of respondents explains. “Australia was great, but at the end
3 4

4. Top 15 destinations
02
“People now need to go where the revenue
is. Five years ago this might have been New
York, London and Hong Kong; now it is also
Migration more Shanghai, Houston, Vietnam and so on.”
Dan Church, Director Hydrogen
widely spread
than ever before 13% USA 9% Australia 9% UK 6% Singapore 5% Canada
hilst it might be expected that the was just 13%, a 5% fall in only 12 months.
The global economy had not
W global economic downturn is affecting The UK and Australia suffered falls of one
influenced respondents’ people’s enthusiasm for working overseas, or and two percentage points respectively.
decision to work overseas at least denting the ability of companies to
hire, the 2012 survey indicates that this is not Interestingly, the main growth region was
at all the case. In 2010 61% said the global Africa. Whereas in the past African countries 4% Switzerland 4% Hong Kong 4% France 3% UAE 3% Germany
economy had not influenced their decision; have been barely mentioned by survey
by 2012 this figure was still as high as 55%. respondents, this year they amounted to
almost 8% of the responses. This almost
However there are some signs that acquiring a certainly reflects the vast investment that
new job overseas is taking professionals longer China and other countries are making in
55% than before. In 2010 41% of our respondents
had been looking for more than three months,
and by 2012 this figure had risen to 47%.
the continent and the consequent growth
in employment opportunities there.
It is interesting to look at preferences by
For Dan Church, Client Services Director at nationality. For example, French respondents
Hydrogen, the most significant impact of the indicated that Brazil would be an attractive
global financial crisis has been that migration destination, perhaps reflecting the fact that
is spread more widely than ever before. Brazil already hosts 350 French companies
“People now need to go where the revenue is,” and around 25,000 French citizens.
he explains. “Five years ago this might have Another noteworthy finding is that people
been New York, London and Hong Kong; now it from Singapore prefer to stay in the region, 3% Spain 3% New Zealand 2% China 2% Brazil 2% Italy
is also Shanghai, Houston, Vietnam and so on.” identifying Hong Kong, China and Australia
as their preferred relocation destinations.
Accordingly, the 2012 survey revealed that This chimes neatly with the growing trend
while the three most popular places for for corporates in Asia to prefer to recruit
respondents to live and work remained the indigenous workers and demonstrates
US, the UK and Australia, their dominance the global importance of the area.
is waning. Last year 18% chose the US as
their number one destination; this year it
5 6

5. Visa restrictions “In many ways, New York was
an ideal option for me, but I
knew the visa would take a
long time and involved a lot of
03
hassle. I would also have to sit
a new exam. So in the end, I
chose Hong Kong.”
Hydrogen placed candidate,
Hong Kong
Top destinations
missing out on talent
Visa/work permit
restrictions preventing relocation
12% 2012
17% 2011
Visa USA
he third most popular reason to prevent years but I realised I didn’t want to be there for would be almost impossible,” he argues. “For
T relocation, according to respondents, 10 years. Once you’ve been there longer than example, it would be far more sensible for the
is visa/work permit issues (12%), and it three years you become overly specialised US authorities to look at finance, pharma and
seems as though this is particularly an in the laws of that region and you can find the extractive industries and see what could
issue for the US and Australia – the top two it hard to find a job in other jurisdictions.” be done to make it easier for global talent in
desired destinations in the 2012 survey. those sectors to come and work in the US.”
Australia
Raymond Madden, Visiting Professor at He continues: “In many ways,New York was
ESCP Europe and the academic in charge of an ideal option for me, but I knew the visa Of course one country’s loss is another
the survey, comments: “It is clear from our would take a long time and involved a lot country’s gain. The fact that many highly
research that the US is missing out on talent of hassle. I would also have to sit a new skilled, talented and motivated executives
because of its stringent visa controls.” exam. So in the end, I chose Hong Kong.” cannot access jobs in the US and Australia
means that they are looking for roles in
This was certainly an issue for one lawyer, Both the US and Australia could gain access to other regions. Most notably the UK was,
now at a US firm in Hong Kong, who moved a wealth of talent by relaxing their visa rules. until recently, as difficult to enter as the US
there from Dubai last year. He explains: “I However it would be difficult to do politically, and Australia. The recent relaxation of UK
qualified with a London firm in September and Madden argues that it would only be rules has yielded benefits for the country.
2007 and moved with that firm to Dubai in necessary in a few select sectors. “Trying
2009 . I was happy in Dubai for a couple of to implement a relaxation across the board
7 8

6. Age range of respondents working abroad
04
22%
34%
24%
Working abroad
16%
is not just 4%
for the young
20s 30s 40s 50s 60s
ot so long ago overseas work was Corporates now look to fill their senior “In my many years of working in different to be well rewarded and so typically retire “I would say that more than
N seen as something for the young. It roles with executives who have a global countries around the world I have learnt that before they turn 60. This means that a huge half of the professionals
was UK teenagers picking grapes in France, perspective, and often recruit these directors often in foreign countries there are things percentage of the energy sector’s workforce in the Oil & Gas sector
American graduates teaching English in and senior managers from overseas. At the about the way of life that you don’t agree with, will disappear in the next few years.” are over 45”
Japan, or twentysomething Australians same time, those who aspire to fill these but you need to understand and respect them. Rory Ferguson, Director
using their accountancy skills to spend top jobs are working overseas, putting This is the first rule of working overseas.” He continues: “So all the companies are Oil & Gas at Hydrogen
a few years in Europe. The 2012 survey that global perspective on their CV. fighting over the next generation – the 35
shows that this is no longer the case. While the change in demographics is true to 45 year olds. They typically have the
Global mobility amongst professionals Juan Moyano has spent 30 years working of many other sectors beyond energy, Rory necessary experience to do the key jobs,
is increasingly driven by the over 30s. around the world on a variety of contracts. Last Ferguson, Director of Oil & Gas at Hydrogen but can also be expected to remain in the
year he made his latest move, from Argentina reports that the trend is particularly evident in sector for a reasonable amount of time.
34% of respondents are in their 30s, 24% to Venezuela where he now works as Senior his sector and that it is becoming a pressing However, as there are fewer of them, we are
in their 40s, and 21% over 50. This reflects Reserve Engineer for a French company. concern for employers. “I would say that more seeing fierce and intensifying competition
the fact of increased global mobility. than half of the professionals in the Oil & to land the top talent in that demographic.”
Gas sector are over 45,” he says. “They tend
9 10

7. Women working abroad
05 Women working
abroad earlier
21-30yr 31-40yr 41-50yr
15%
in their careers 36%
44%
“I’ve moved my family four he exception to the trend of older even consider working overseas without all
36% Percentage of women already working
abroad aged between 21 and 30
or five times internationally. T talent being overseas is women. the support I get from my husband and kids.
Finding a house or suitable Only 15% of women working overseas are We’re a team wherever we go. All I have to
apartment, a school for my over 40, compared to nearly 50% of the do is focus on the geoscience at work.”
17%
ten-year-old, visa and work men. In fact by and large women working
permits, health care, getting overseas are young, single and childfree. She continues: “I’ve moved my family four or Percentage of men already working
around and getting to know five times internationally. Finding a house or abroad aged between 21 and 30
the neighbours - it’s a huge 36% of women who are already abroad suitable apartment, a school for my ten-year-
process of adjustment.” are between 21 and 30, while this applies old, visa and work permits, health care, getting
Dianne Weinert, Consultant, to just 17% of the men. Equally 22% around and getting to know the neighbours
Geophysicist of women working overseas are single, - it’s a huge process of adjustment.”
compared to just 9% of men and, while
40% of female respondents in this sector She has 25 years’ experience as a seismic 17%
have no children, the same is true for just interpreter, and is highly in demand in the
20% of the men. Perhaps the most telling energy sector. However, many women with 26%
statistic in this regard is that only 23% of skills, experience and talent like hers lack
respondents working overseas are women. the support her family provides and so 36%
are not available to global recruiters.
As was the case in last year’s report, women
are just as, if not more, keen to relocate Those that do go abroad at a later stage, often
than men are: 53% of women expressed a do so because they are following the career
desire to relocate compared to 49% of men. relocation of their partners. 14% said that they
Furthermore, for those who do move, it tends had relocated for this reason, compared to just
to work out well: even if 59% of women 3% of men, which suggests that there is still
who have moved overseas feel occasionally strength in the traditional image of women
homesick (compared to 40% of men), 90% trailing behind their spouses’ careers. However,
of them would repeat the experience. it should be noted that half the women who
have followed their partner overseas feel
Dianne Weinert, a consultant geophysicist, satisfied, whereas only a fifth of men who had
has spent years working in places from Perth followed their partner abroad were satisfied.
to Tripoli, Houston, Copenhagen and now
Sydney. She says: “If I’m honest I wouldn’t
11 12

8. 06 People moving
abroad stay longer
Even the best
employees are looking
07
than expected for greener grass
45%
andy and Hussein Jaber are brothers born able to find talent in global and developing
R in the Lebanon with Canadian citizenship. markets is a concern for 41% of corporate Simon Whitehead, Partner at EOS
Both are talented professionals with skills that executives and talent managers. 72% Law, which specialises in advising the
are in demand in the construction industry. foresee a severe or a moderate shortage recruitment sector, agrees that the trend
So when they became dissatisfied with their in R&D talent while 56% think it will be a is very much for the top employees to
work and lives in Saudi Arabia, and looked for problem among executive leadership. be looking overseas. “More high flyers
interesting roles, whilst also allowing them are looking for a move” he says. “At the
of respondents have and their families to all live near to each other,
their new employer in Morocco was prepared
“What we are seeing is an unexpected talent
paradox. Even though unemployment rates
same time, however, they are seeking
more safeguards than ever before from
already been overseas for to put in the effort to bring them on board. remain relatively high in the US, companies
are struggling to find the skilled workers they
prospective employers before jumping
ship. While candidates are itching for a
more than five years Hussein Jaber says: “I wanted to move need to fill critical jobs worldwide,” said Jeff move they are taking longer to convert
because my old job was not well organised or Schwartz, a principal in the human capital because of the risk associated with leaving
properly structured. I also wanted to increase practice of Deloitte Consulting LLP and global the comfort of an employer and the risks
my salary and to work with a company that co-leader and U.S. leader for talent services. inherent in joining a new employer.”
recognises the value of its employees. So I
started searching and was very happy to be Our survey showed that it is these top He continues: “To lure candidates to
taken on by my new employer in Morocco.” performers who make up the bulk to today’s make a switch, recruiters and employers
global movers, 45% of our respondents who are being more creative with incentive
He continues: “The company did everything are working overseas have more than 16 packages and working harder at reassuring
possible to make the move as smooth as years’ experience and only 18% have less candidates about the benefits of a move.
possible. It sent me a detailed orientation than five years’ experience. These figures There’s been a marked increase in the
document telling me everything I needed have risen since 2010 when 48% had more number of contracts being suggested by
to know about Morocco and my job. Right than 16 years and only 9% had less than recruiters and employers to guarantee
from the start the company smoothed out five, but this perhaps reflects the growing bonus levels, minimum term contracts
all the difficulties, meaning that I could awareness amongst younger workers that and, at the senior executive end of the
settle in quickly and focus on my work.” they need to get experience overseas.
hen Christophe Mura left France back in going respondents anticipated staying two-year assignment. More and more people market, golden parachute payments.”
W 1996 to study in Edinburgh he expected overseas only for up to five years, in fact a are spending their entire careers working
His experience is not unusual. No longer In the same way, 30% of our respondents hold
that he would soon return to France, probably sizeable 45% of respondents have already overseas, doing stints of several years at a
is an overseas stint the sole preserve of professional qualifications: 35% have Masters
at the end of his course. 16 years later he is been overseas for more than five years. time in one country before moving to a new
those struggling to make the grade back degrees, and 5% have Doctorates. Interestingly,
now working in Copenhagen as a Senior Drilling region where they gain fresh perspectives and
home, or those looking for a quiet spell in only 8% hold MBAs, down from 11% three
Engineer, and he is yet to relocate back home. “It’s not an easy life, but it is usually an experiences. Very often they are hesitant at the
the sun. Today, it is the most experienced, years ago, perhaps reflecting the decreasing
interesting one,” comments Mura. “Both my start but become hooked on the lifestyle and
educated and high performing workers who enthusiasm amongst senior executives for
Indeed one of the most significant wife and I spent 18 months in Gabon, as well keep doing it much longer than they intended.”
are looking to add international experience these relatively expensive qualifications.
findings in the 2012 survey was that nine as elsewhere around the globe. We moved to
to their CVs. Potential employers who want
out of ten respondents would continue Copenhagen recently when I took up a position This appears not so much a desire to keep
to hire them need to be prepared to emulate These are senior people who are making
overseas and would also recommend this with a new employer and I am pleased to say travelling, more that they seem to like where
the effort made by the Jabers’ employer. the move overseas: 10% are directors, 21%
experience to others. A third considers that the move is working out very well.” they live: 84% of respondents would like to
senior managers, 23% middle managers, 10%
the country where they currently live to stay where they are and only 16% would like to
It is a concern for many corporate recruiters. junior managers, and 2% are board members.
be home, and only 18% want to go back to Raymond Madden, Visiting Professor at move on. Half of those already abroad are even
A recent Deloitte/Forbes insight survey, Accordingly 15% earn more than US$200,000
their home country in the near future. ESCP Europe and the academic in charge planning on applying for permanent residency.
‘Talent Edge 2020’ reported that not being a year, and only 40% under US$100,000.
of the survey, believes this is a significant
Mura is a good example of the tendency to change in global mobility. He says: “We’re
work abroad longer than expected. Before not seeing people going abroad to do a quick
13 14

9. How I found my job
18%
08
> Recruitment
consultant
Recruiters
play a key role 2%
Press
13% 19%
Employer Headhunter
direct
“As more organisations
How did
operate at a truly global level, you 13%
they need recruiters who
can provide them with global find your Online
talent pools and expertise to
select the best candidates.” current job
Tim Smeaton, CEO
Hydrogen Group
13%
Friend/
colleague
Three or four years ago, if you needed In recent years there has been much talk specialists provide them with access to 6%
“ someone to go and work overseas, you’d about the rise of online tools such as the global organisations of their choice.” Other
look around the office and ask for volunteers,” LinkedIn®, which many have predicted will
says Dan Church, Hydrogen’s Client Services allow companies to do their own recruitment Roger Tweedy, the REC’s Director of Research,
Director. “Now it’s the other way around. Now and so herald the demise of the recruitment comments: “Our own research confirms this
people recognise the value of international consultant. The survey showed that this view: recruitment consultants and search
experience on their CV, and are queuing is far from the case. The most common firms remain pivotal to most employers’
up for the international assignments.” way respondents found their current jobs
was through a headhunter (19%), and the
talent acquisition strategies. Recruitment
consultancies are ideally placed to harness
16%
This is a significant shift in the world of second most common route was through next generation recruitment tools. Our Current
global migration, as it means that recruiting a recruitment agency (18%). Only 0.32% monthly tracking shows that over 90% employer
companies increasingly have their pick of found their current job through LinkedIn®. of employers are pleased with the way
the best candidates, and those candidates consultants secure the best talent quickly
need to work hard to impress prospective Tim Smeaton, Chief Executive Officer for their businesses. As global competition
employers. Indeed, the 2012 survey revealed Hydrogen Group, explains why recruitment for rare skills continues, having a strategic
that finding a job is still the greatest barrier to specialists are still important: “As more partnership with recruitment consultancies
moving overseas. It has though fallen to 31% organisations operate at a truly global level, remains a commercial imperative.”
of the responses (from a high of 44% last year), they need recruiters who can provide them
perhaps reflecting a global economy finally with global talent pools and expertise to
beginning to recover from the worst of the select the best candidates. Coupled with
financial crisis. this, candidates recognise that recruitment
15 16

10. Importance of international experience
09
Energy
76%
Energy sector
leads way in Pharmaceutical
73%
overseas relocation
Law
69%
Finance
62%
he energy sector is right at the forefront world,” he says. “It’s the generation that global worker mobility decrease. However,
T of global mobility and has been for entered the industry as the North Sea oil such is the demand for expertise within
many decades. While 59% of all Hydrogen came on-stream and most of them are due the sector, particularly in places like the
clients stated that international experience
in prospective employees is important, in the
energy sector 100% stated that opinion.
to retire in the next five to ten years. They
have worked in all the hardship locations,
and now they are much more selective about
Middle East and Africa that there just aren’t
the skills available. So overseas workers
will still be very much in demand.”
HR
54%
the jobs and locations they will accept as Ferguson offers this advice to anyone in the
In fact, the opportunity to work overseas well as about the rates they demand.” energy sector who is looking to attract leading
is one of the reasons young people enter professionals: “These people are excited by
the profession. It was certainly a positive He continues: “As these skills become scarcer, projects that involve high potential prospects,
factor for Doug Renton, a Senior Drilling employers are looking to replace them with leading edge technologies and market
Engineer in Sydney. “I’m from Aberdeen local skilled workers. This is for several leading talent and leadership. We’re seeing
originally,” he says. “So when I graduated reasons. Firstly, as the skill gap grows it is some organisations shift from functionally
51%
ten years ago I was eager to get out on an easier to hold onto locally employed people. aligned groups – for example, a department
overseas assignment and see the world.” Secondly, it is increasingly a stipulation of of geology – to multi-disciplined project Transformational Technology
operating in developing markets that a certain teams in which specialists can all learn
He continues: “I spent several years in The proportion of a multinational corporation’s from each other and develop new skills.”
Netherlands, and then just 18 months back workforce is local. Thirdly, there are nationals
in the UK before this opportunity in Sydney who have worked aboard, gained skills, and For those who are hoping to land the top jobs
came up. I leapt at the opportunity. I’m are now being encouraged to return home to in the sector he concludes with this advice:
now married and we’re thinking of starting work. Because of these developments, we “Don’t just take an academic approach.
a family, so my enthusiasm for overseas see a more strategic relationship occurring Employers get frustrated by academically
work might wane, but up until now it’s between employers and manpower suppliers.” brilliant engineers who are unable to look
been a fantastic benefit of my career.” beyond their own role. If you can think about
However, according to Graham Chalker, Global
Chalker’s colleague, Rory Ferguson,
Director Oil Gas at Hydrogen, adds: “The
the broader commercial implications of
everything you do you will exponentially
Business Transformation
42%
Practice Leader of Oil Gas at Hydrogen, final factor is that indigenous workers are increase your value to a prospective employer.”
that may be about to change. “There is a usually a more cost effective option than
community of people in the energy sector overseas workers. So, in theory, in many
who have had a career working all over the parts of the world we might expect to see
17 18

11. Australia
10 Technology
eases relocation
Country spotlight
3 4 out
linical trial assistant, Irina Teodorascu, the top talent. After all, no matter how good In both 2010 and 2011 the UN placed investment commitment of most Western being in Sydney. My daughter is in college in
C made her first international move
in March 2012, moving from her native
a career opportunity, no matter how great
the appeal of an exciting new country, most
“ Australia in second place on its
Human Development Index, a comparative
economies, and a lack of relevant skilled
professionals is one of the main barriers
Fremantle and she came to stay with me in
Sydney, which was great fun for both of us. We
of
Romania to take up a freelance contract in people want to be close to their families. study of life expectancy, literacy, education to bringing these projects to fruition.” did all kinds of tourist stuff together, including
Germany. Like many who take up an overseas 23% of survey respondents described it as and standards of living for countries a concert at the Sydney Opera House.”
assignment she was initially concerned about the most significant barrier to relocation. worldwide. Put simply, Australia is one Jackson reports that there is less demand
feeling isolated and homesick. In the 2012 When asked to name what they missed of the best places in the world to live. from financial services, partly because the However, if a proposed piece of legislation
survey, the number one reason for people the most, 70% mentioned their families. sector continues to struggle, and partly comes into force as planned on 1st July
Say social media has to decide against relocation is family. As is So it is reassuring for global professionals This was strongly reflected in our report. because there is less of a shortage of 2012, this Australian lifestyle may become
helped to reduce the case with many of these professionals, that video calls are now affordable and Overall our respondents named Australia local talent. He expects that in the future less accessible to overseas workers. The
homesickness Teodorascu has found that new technologies practical right around the world. as the second most desired place to recruitment to this sector will be more Australian Federal Government has unveiled
are helping to mitigate the problem. live and work. It was chosen by 9%, and, about replacement than expansion, with plans to effectively abolish tax-free living-
23%
Social media platforms such as Facebook® unsurprisingly given its wealth of natural many organisations seeing the merits of away-from-home-allowances (LAFHAs).
“I talk to my friends and family every day” she allow even those in the most remote locations resources, was the most popular choice outsourcing and offshoring many of their This follows an extensive review by the
says. “We get in contact via Yahoo Messenger® to keep in touch with friends and family, for those in the Oil Gas sector. support and technology functions. However, Australian Taxation Office following concerns
and Facebook®. So even though I am many viewing their photos, hearing about their many oil gas projects are reaching a over the perceived abuse of LAFHAs paid
kilometres away from them it doesn’t feel daily activities and so helping to reduce the However, it was slightly less popular than point where they will suddenly need several to foreign executives. But at the time of
like it because we still share the everyday inevitable feelings of isolation that occur in the last year when it was chosen by 10%, and thousand extra workers. “In the next two writing, it is by no means certain that the
aspects of our lives. It is certainly helping early days of settling into a foreign country. In Ivan Jackson, Managing Director Australia at to three years recruitment to Australia will legislation will be passed. Regardless, it is
Described wanting to be close me to settle into my exciting new life.” fact 82% of our female respondents, and 70% Hydrogen, confirms that the last 12 months be at its highest ever,” he concludes. essential that anyone considering a move
to family as a significant of the men, told us that social media reduces have seen a slight slowdown in workplace to Australia ensures they present the best
barrier to relocation These technologies also allow overseas their homesickness. Perhaps partly due to migration. “2010 was the first year since So where do all these overseas workers come possible case to prospective employers.
workers to remain in contact with loved this, the majority of respondents reported 2003 when there were not more skilled from? The survey revealed that a large number
ones. This is an important development for that they find it easy to settle down, make people leaving and arriving than the year of Australians use their language to live and For companies that are looking to attract top
those relocating and those trying to attract new friends, and adapt to a different culture. before,” he says. “This is likely a result of the work in the US and UK, and that many English professionals to Australia, Jackson has this
uncertainty that persists from the global speakers come in the opposite direction, advice: “It’s worth doing the obvious things like
financial crisis, but the long-term trend tells heading to Australia for its fabled lifestyle financial and practical help with relocation but
us that we will, in the near future, see inbound and growing array of career opportunities. It is the specific challenge we face in Australia is
and outbound migration increasing again.” also a popular destination for Singaporeans. that we are too far away from the rest of the
world for people to pop over for interviews,
He reports that the majority of those making Dianne Weinert, a consultant geophysicist, so employers are getting much more savvy
the move either into Australia or out of it has spent years working in places from at using technology to interview candidates.
are in the oil gas, mining or engineering Perth to Tripoli, Houston, and Copenhagen, They are also becoming much better at sharing
sectors. “There are currently 404 natural and she has just relocated to Sydney. She the experiences of their current workforce to
resources projects taking place in Australia,” says: “Tripoli was absolutely the worst and help people make the cultural leap as much
he says. “Together they are worth over Australia the best and easiest. We lived in as the work-place leap, and hence ensure a
AUS$450 billion, a sum that dwarfs the Perth for almost two years and are loving much softer landing for their new hires.”
19 20

12. Germany Hong Kong
Country spotlight Country spotlight
ight at the heart of the European Union, contract in Germany. She says: “I chose becoming increasingly global,” says Murtagh. ong Kong is one of the world’s leading these individuals have been working overseas rest of South East Asia a short flight away,
R with a population of more than 80 million, Germany because I believe life is lived in the “This has always been true of pharmaceutical H international financial centres, and is and are perhaps looking to come home.” there is also the opportunity to travel.
the fourth largest economy in the world, proper way here. People here respect other firms, but more and more companies in increasingly used by multinationals as an
and one of the very few economies that has people, every service is high quality, and even finance, automotive, FMCG, and so on are entry point into the Chinese economy. “Hong Despite this, there are still opportunities China’s influence on the region is growing and
grown over the past three years, Germany the food is cheaper than in Romania. Already raising their sights above the German market. Kong is still considered by many as the finance for non-Mandarin speakers as one lawyer this is changing the commercial landscape.
is an excellent destination that offers many I feel like I have been living here all my life. ” To do this they need people with English and business capital of the region,” says who qualified in London and then spent two Hong Kong is facilitating considerable
opportunities for those looking to relocate. speaking skills. So if you can offer fluent Abigail Waudby, Director, Asia at Hydrogen. years in Dubai before moving to Hong Kong amounts of cross border work and the
Our respondents told us that the main English and German you will be in demand.” demonstrates: “I was told there were fewer changing global political stage is adding to
Yet, despite almost 10% of our respondents barrier they face in moving to Germany is “The Asian economy is still strong,” she says. opportunities available for non-Mandarin the changes being experienced in Hong Kong.
being German speakers, and 7% being insufficient relocation packages, Murtagh She offers this advice to employers who “With many companies investing significantly speakers,” he says. “But I was lucky since
German nationals, only 3% named it as a confirms that this is almost certainly the are keen to tap into that small pool of in growth in this region, this is creating a range the market for funds lawyers is fairly Waudby comments: “The crucial point
country where they would like to live and case. “Employers in Germany have a large candidates who have both those language of opportunities for talented individuals.” buoyant at the moment, and my recruitment is that employers no longer need to pay
work. Stephanie Murtagh, Associate Director indigenous pool of talent to draw from, skills together with the necessary technical She continues: “In certain areas there are consultant was able to identify a suitable substantial relocation packages and salaries
at Hydrogen, believes the remaining 97% so they can be very picky about which skills: “Everything you can do to smooth acute skills shortages, and in these cases role and guide me through the selection to attract people here. Candidates need
are missing a potential opportunity. overseas workers they hire.” Furthermore, out the integration process will help. For some firms are considering international process towards a successful conclusion.” to demonstrate a visible commitment to
the process for obtaining visas and work example, before they make the move, talent where the domestic talent pool a decent length of tenure and realistic
“Germany is an excellent place to live and permits in Germany is complex and time- new hires like to speak to others who is unable to keep up with demand. This He also points out that Hong Kong offers a expectations regarding remuneration.”
work. The economy is strong and it is home consuming, which can deter some people. have done it before. But also, during the is not a new trend, but the rapid pace good quality of life, “It’s an optimistic market,“
to some of most established and successful recruitment process remember to focus on of growth in Asia has accelerated the he explains. “It’s also a big city with a buzz . I Finally, Waudby advises candidates to expect
companies in the world, so in general it offers It has been notable in recent months the opportunity rather than the location.” gap between supply and demand.” wanted the vibrancy and energy which a world certain cultural differences. She explains:
good salaries. Living costs are reasonable, that those not put off by these obstacles city provides and it is all here in Hong Kong.” “The working culture here can feel very
healthcare provision is outstanding, and have been those from countries that However this supply gap has not made different from Europe, with a more formal
the major cities such as Berlin, Munich, are experiencing economic difficulties. Hong Kong employers any less selective. Salaries in Hong Kong are comparable to approach to business.But in terms of personal
Frankfurt, Hamburg and Dusseldorf are Murtagh reports significant candidate Waudby says: “The strategic priority for many other major financial and business centres, development the roles in Hong Kong often
vibrant, cosmopolitan and exciting.” flow from Italy and Eastern Europe. companies is to build headcount of executives and lower taxes give most people a 20-30% involve a wider regional remit, which is usually
from the indigenous market of Hong Kong or uplift in their take-home pay. Residents also not the case in say London or New York.”
That is certainly the experience of Irina Getting a foothold in the German job market is the People’s Republic of China. In many cases enjoy a high standard of living and with the
Teodorascu, who in March 2012, moved from challenging, but there are opportunities if you
her native Romania to take up a freelance know where to look. “German companies are
21 22

13. Singapore United Kingdom
Country spotlight Country spotlight
ingapore might be small with a There are also significant numbers of energy, fast track. If you have the right attitude, then “The UK economy is heavily he UK is a major economy – the sixth like Australia can struggle to keep up
S population of only five million but this pharmaceutical and engineering firms using the opportunities exist here.” concentrated on the capital,
T largest in the world – and, situated as it with the frenetic rate of activity in the UK.
has not prevented it from becoming one of Singapore as their regional HQ and, in addition Walker agrees that Singapore is a highly London, and there are few is in between the time zones of North America Everything needs to be done yesterday.”
the fastest growing business centres in the to this, the Wealth Management sector has attractive destination and he points out places in the world that are and South East Asia, it is a prime location for
world. The government has worked hard experienced a growth rate of 22% AUM, that this popularity has led to changes as appealing to live and work. investment by global corporates and London is The UK draws in workplace migrants
to position Singapore as one of the most twice the global average for the sector.” in the recruitment sector; companies no Because it is at the centre one of the major financial centres of the world. from around the world. Many come from
attractive destinations for multinational firms longer need to offer relocation packages to of so much of the world’s the EU, as well as a good number from
to be based in Asia; offering ease of set up, He continues: “These new industries growing high performers; instead these candidates business activity, it is a great Daniel Fox, EMEA Director at Hydrogen, says: the Commonwealth, such as Australia,
low taxation rates, and a business-friendly their presence in Asia, with Singapore as are fully aware of the opportunities that place to come and take your “The UK economy is heavily concentrated on New Zealand, South Africa, India and the
trading environment. This has resulted in their base, is one of the key drivers behind a posting in Singapore can offer them. career on to the next level.” London, and there are few places in the world Caribbean. Then there are expats returning
Singapore being ranked as the second freest the continuous flow of talent into the Daniel Fox, Director EMEA that are as appealing to live and work. Because to the UK from roles in Asia and elsewhere.
economy in the world, behind only Hong Kong country and the range of opportunities is In addition to being an attractive destination, Hydrogen it is at the centre of so much of the world’s
by the 2011 Index of Economic Freedom. making Singapore a very exciting destination the high quality Singaporean education business activity, it is a great place to come Our survey revealed that the UK is the
to consider for international tenure.” system is producing a significant amount of and take your career on to the next level.” third most popular place in the world for
Singapore is now the 14th largest exporter indigenous talent, which is not only filling people to live and work. Fox reports that
and the 15th largest importer in the world, Technology Bid Manager, Ben Morrell moved domestic roles but also spreading its wings He continues: “Outside of work it is a city companies in the technology, oil and gas,
and has the highest trade-to-GDP ratio from Sydney to Singapore in August 2011 beyond Singapore. “Singaporean lawyers packed full of culture, new experiences, and and pharmaceutical sectors continue to
of any country. There are more than 7,000 because it offered him access to a larger, are in high demand from Hong Kong firms,” people from every corner of the globe. There recruit, while companies in the financial
multinational corporations in Singapore, as faster-growing market. “There are 2.5 billion reports Walker. “They tend to be more is something for everyone in London. What services sector remain cautious.
well as 1,500 companies each from China people in Asia, compared to 29 million in culturally and professionally “Westernised” is more, it is considerably easier to get a
and India. Indeed, around 40% of those Australia,” he explains. “The move has gone than their Chinese counterparts and they visa here than it is in the US. In the past year He concludes with this advice: “If you want
living in the country are foreign workers or superbly. I’d travelled in the region before, also have the necessary Mandarin skills.” the Government has relaxed restrictions a to secure a role in the UK, you need to
their dependents. Singapore is also well so didn’t suffer any sort of culture shock, little and you no longer face the same uphill demonstrate to your prospective employers
positioned to weather the more volatile trading and I had several pre-job calls with my Walker sums up: “If you want to come and struggle as those trying to get into the US.” that you are committed to the move.
conditions we have been experiencing in the colleagues which helped me settle in.” work here you need to make it clear you Employers don’t want to be recruiting for
last few years, as it has attracted a varied see it as an important career move. You That is not to say that it is perfect. Rental senior roles once every three years; they want
number of industries to its shores providing He adds: “Singapore is a great place to live. probably won’t get a relocation package, property is expensive. Fox also points out long-term players. Often people find the UK is
resilience and a range of opportunities. It’s compact so it is easy to get around and and increasingly, companies here are only that workers from other countries can find a far better place to live than they expected.
the infrastructure is fantastic. It’s not easy looking for international talent if they cannot it hard to adapt to the pace of work in the Many people say they are looking to come here
Simon Walker, Managing Director Asia at living so far away from friends and family, and fill a vacancy from the domestic talent pool. UK. “This is especially true in the financial for three to five years, but our survey reveals
Hydrogen, comments: “The big question it took a little getting used to having a dozen So the competition for roles has increased services sector,” he says. “People who come that 84% of them are still here after five years.”
here is whether Singapore will become nationalities in the same office, as well as and the roles will go to the best profiles with here from relatively calm environments
Asia’s Silicon Valley or its Switzerland. It is clients speaking so many different languages. the clearest motivations and a commitment
recognised as a strong choice for back-office But you adapt to it, just as you do to the more to stay for a reasonable length of time.”
operations and there’s a trend for technology formal and hierarchical way of doing business
companies to site their IT operations here. here. At the end of the day, Singapore is the
23 24

14. Appendix Hydrogen Group
T
he Hydrogen Global Professionals on The survey was conducted by a consultancy 78% of the respondents were over
and ESCP Europe
the Move Report 2012 is based on the project team from ESCP Europe and examined the age of 30 and 82% had five or
results of a major online survey that ran during the opportunities and motivations of mid and more years’ work experience.
November 2011 and attracted 2,353 responses senior level professionals working abroad.
from professionals in 85 different countries The gender breakdown of the respondents
working in the legal, finance, business 23% of the respondents were from the was 73% male and 27% female.
transformation, transformational technology, United Kingdom, with the remaining
Hydrogen is a global specialist recruitment business listed on the London
oil gas, infrastructure, pharmaceutical, coming from a fairly even spread of 970 respondents were already overseas
Stock Exchange. We build strong relationships with clients by finding
HR, and trading and advisory sectors. countries in Europe, Australasia, North and of the 823 that stated their gender,
specialist candidates that they have difficulty sourcing themselves. We
America, the Middle East and Asia. 632 were male and 191 female.
have more than 350 staff, placing candidates in over 50 countries.
The online survey was distributed
using business social networking The respondents were mainly mid-senior level
Each of our consultants is part of one of our global practices covering both
sites, databases from Hydrogen Group, professionals, earning in excess of USD51,000
professional support services (Business Transformation, Finance, HR, Legal,
and alumni of ESCP Europe. per annum, the average being USD126,301.
Trading Advisory and Transformational Technology) and the technical and
99% had qualifications of a bachelor
scientific market (Infrastructure, Mining, Oil Gas and Pharmaceutical). They
degree (or equivalent) or above.
combine international reach with local expertise and specialist knowledge.
Whilst many specialist recruiters are location focused, Hydrogen
Gross annual income level (USD) believes that the best way to deliver service to its clients and
candidates is to base our offering around these specialist practices.
By joining up our practices and using the latest technology, we can
less than $25k 3%
provide clients with global visibility of the best candidates.
$26k - $50k 9%
$51k - $75k 12% www.hydrogengroup.com
$76k - $100k 13%
$101k - $125k 12%
$126k - $150k 10%
ESCP Europe is the world’s oldest business school. Founded in Paris in
1819, the School provides postgraduate and executive-level business
$151k - $175k 7%
education at five European campuses (Paris, London, Berlin, Madrid
$176k - $200k 7% and Torino), and globally via a broad network of academic partners.
greater than $200k 15%
declined to comment 12% www.escpeurope.eu
Age
21 - 30yrs 22%
31 - 40yrs 34%
41 - 50 yrs 24%
51 - 60yrs 16%
61 - 70yrs+ 4%
Number of years working
less than 1yr 3%
1 - 2yrs 4%
3 - 5yrs 11%
6 - 10yrs 19%
11 - 15yrs 18%
16 - 20yrs 10%
21 - 25yrs 12%
26 - 30yrs 8%
31 - 40yrs 12%
41 -50yrs 3%
Education
bachelor degree 29%
masters degree 35%
phd 5% For more information please contact Alex Bigland at Hydrogen
mba 8% alexandrabigland@hydrogengroup.com or +44 (0)20 7090 7739
professional qualification 17%
other 6%
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