Convergence creates skills problems

Survey shows 65 per cent of senior UK exectives believe skills gap has evolved

Businesses across the UK are struggling to find suitable staff to work on convergence projects, research shows.

According to a study by recruitment firm Russell Reynolds Associates, 65 per cent of senior UK executives believe convergence has created a skills gap.

The study says there is a strong demand for employees demonstrating hybrid, cross sector expertise.

While over half (23 per cent) of UK respondents have already seen convergence present staffing challenges, only a quarter (24 per cent) described themselves as very prepared to meet them.

'The majority of respondents said they needed to acquire new skills sets for convergence, with many believing they must look outside their traditional sector to get the right people,' said Rhys Grossman, executive director at Russell Reynolds Associates.

'However, our research shows that recruiting, integrating and retaining this talent will be a big challenge,' he said.

Data from the 125 senior executives surveyed from global media and technology organisations demonstrated that companies are not equipped to meet the staffing challenges - only 19 per cent of respondents think they are 'very prepared'.

Companies also expect difficulties in the integration and turnover of new employees. Some 62 per cent of those questioned expect the impact to be so profound it will change the structure of company boards.

Jane Dowding, Managing Director, Russell Reynolds Associates, said: 'We are in a period of rapid evolution in convergence. Long-term business models and their impact on people are uncertain.'

'However, it is clear that Boards will need to have a far greater understanding of convergence and the industries that it spans, and that new skills will be required throughout organizations,' she said.

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