Equity research pay soars to lure global talent

Equity research analyst salaries in Ireland have surged by up to 23% this year. But, calm yourselves - it's an effort to attract foreign candidates.

On the face of it, the latest salary survey by recruiters Hudson shows 2007-08 to be a good year for equity research analysts. Salaries have risen from €65k to €80k at the mid-level and from €100k to €120k at the senior end, since 2006-07.

Nicola Kavanagh, banking and finance manager at Hudson, says this is less about job-hopping and poaching within the Emerald Isle, but more about attracting overseas talent.

"There's not a large candidate base locally. Predominantly, we'd look towards the UK, the US, Europe or the Middle East for these roles. Salaries for equity research in Dublin are competitive internationally, which is unusual in financial services within Ireland."

She says there are a lot of positions available to people if they are willing to make the move to Ireland. "They could have four or five roles to choose from," she coaxes.

And in the current volatile equity market, the skills of an experienced equity researcher are highly valued, says Kevin Quinn, director, Bank of Ireland Private Banking.

"It is no longer one in which 'all boats will rise'. Rather it requires a very discerning and considered approach," he explains.