The most in-demand jobs and skills in South Africa

Source: News24, 28/12/2022

A new report by the recruitment group Michael Page has highlighted a strong demand for specific professional skills in South Africa, noting that global companies are poaching experienced South African staff while local employers are looking for candidates with the same talent.

Michael Page Africa, a division of the UK-headquartered PageGroup, recruits managers and senior executives on the African continent.

Based on data captured by the group from job advertisements and insights from consultants, it has compiled a new report on the most in-demand skills and experience needed within various sectors of South Africa.

Other in-demand jobs include compliance professionals to understand whether companies have failed or succeeded in complying with relevant legal provisions such as the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act.

The report has also identified challenges such as a shortage of skills in the sector which has been exacerbated by mass emigration to international opportunities outside of South Africa by potential job candidates.

Procurement and supply chain

These are the most in-demand jobs according to the report:

1. Supply chain planning

2. Demand planner

3. Procurement manager

4. Logistics manager

5. Plant supervisors

The procurement and supply chain is one of the most demanding and challenging industries for potential job candidates. According to the report, due to the global pressures on the supply chain, it has become challenging to find candidates who want to fill the positions.

Other in-demand skills include warehouse management and supply chain planning. These skills are needed to provide sufficient production planning and supplier planning to meet the needs of the customer.

Sales and marketing

These are the most in-demand jobs according to the report:

1. Business development manager

2. Digital marketing manager

3. Head of marketing

4. Marketing manager

5. Key account manager - national

As new businesses enter the market, new positions have been created in the industry for business development managers, sales managers and head of sales according to the report. Technological and digital advances in the industry have also seen an increased demand for enterprise sale positions and candidates who are adaptable to fast-paced work, agile and have data analytics experience.

Technology

These are the most in-demand jobs according to the report:

1. Cloud computing

2. Artificial intelligence and machine learning

3. Data scientist

4. Software development

5. Cybersecurity

6. Business analysis

As one of the fastest-growing industries within South Africa, the need for technological skills is growing as businesses continue to use data within daily decisions. The growing use of data has also led to increased demand for cybersecurity.

We live in a world where facts and fict