18 April 2003
Competition for public sector finance jobs is increasing because of the sector's 'recession proof' status, according to research out later this month.
The survey of public sector salaries by consultancy Robert Walters, to be published on April 25, also found that the pay gap with the private sector was closing, particularly for those working on contracts.
A finance director on a one-year contract can now earn more than £110,000, while an accountant with two years' post-qualification experience can make over £50,000.
David Rolliston, Robert Walters' public sector team manager, said the government's programme of investment had kept the public sector jobs market buoyant. At the same time, public bodies were trying to attract the very best candidates.
'Newly established non-departmental public bodies and non-government bodies are helping to close the salary gap between commerce and the public sector, by having to offer competitive salaries to attract high-calibre candidates,' he explained.
Maddison added that other benefits more common in the public sector, such as family-friendly working practices, longer holidays and more generous pension schemes, were also encouraging staff into the sector.
PFapr2003
