Flexible in Dublin
It's not all about the money: more Dublin firms are offering equity and flexible working to hold on to their most talented people.
Joan Kehoe, managing director of hedge fund services company Quintillion, recently gave staff 25% of the equity in the company. "It's a big chunk of equity compared to anyone else in our field, but it acts as a huge motivator and helps us to attract the best people," she says.
Many of Kehoe's staff have young families and they enjoy the benefit of flexible working. "As long as our staff do a good day's work - whether it's 10am to 6pm or 11am to 7pm - as long as we meet our deadlines, we're flexible," she adds.
Kehoe's not the only one accommodating staff needs. Stockbroker Dolmen Securities recently offered equity to a number of its 100-odd staff after a management buyout from German insurer Ergo, and we understand that staff at Goodbody Stockbrokers can share up to 40% of profits.
Creative and imaginative reward packages are becoming the norm, according to a survey by recruitment firm Robert Walters. "We have noticed a definitive switch in the market as employers use benefits packages to differentiate their offer. Salaries are increasing - up between 3% and 15% - but not at the rate of previous years," says Louise Campbell, managing director of Robert Walters in Ireland.
"Candidates are focusing on companies that offer stability, continued challenge, and training and development opportunities - as well as a great salary. Candidates really are calling all the shots," she adds.
