Demand for financial services staff has seen significant growth in the first half of 2006, new figures show.
Consultancy Robert Half Financial Services Group saw the number of staff placed in financial services roles increase by 182 per cent compared to the number placed in the second half of 2005.
"We have noticed a significant increase in the demand for candidates across all areas of accounting and finance," said the company's branch manager, Neil Owen.
"The data provided by the Financial Services Employment Index is extremely encouraging and reflects a rising optimism within the financial sector."
The strongest demand for financial services candidates was seen in higher level positions, with 67 per cent of new placements occurring in the £41,000 plus salary range.
Around 63 per cent of the candidates placed in a financial services role were aged between 25 and 35.