For the next in our series uncovering the major trends across our global network of offices, we talk to Jannes von Lintel, Director of Technology, Digital & Finance at Fyte Germany.
So what is shaping the market for digital and tech jobs in Germany? “It has been particularly evident during the past 12 to 18 months that there has been an increase in the requirement and use of e-commerce and e-retail platforms, fuelled by consumers buying online. Many companies had previously never given much consideration to their digital business but have now had to up their game,” says Jannes.
As well as the boom in e-commerce, it’s the big rise in demand for agencies that has produced the greatest change to the tech sector, according to Jannes. “Many organisations are now looking to outsource their IT to agencies, which has in turn generated a significant requirement for traditional back and front end developer roles. AI, data, IT sales, infrastructure, and software developers are all also highly sought after, as is of course cybersecurity expertise.”
However, sourcing that talent remains an ongoing challenge for organisations. “In Germany front and back end developers have always been notoriously tricky to find, especially those with the knowledge of different languages. And for some of the more niche skill sets, such as AI or cyber, not many people have the track record that employers are looking for. In most cases you may get four to five years’ experience but certainly not 10. Senior profiles are extremely difficult to locate,” notes Jannes.
Data analysis
One of the major trends in 2022 is set to be the growing demand for analysts. “Whether it’s in the e-commerce or security fields, organisations will need business intelligence and security analysts to extrapolate and drive revenue from the data they have rather than buying it,” says Jannes. “The first step is to have the platform, then you need to conduct the analysis. So unsurprisingly, knowledge of data analytics is on the rise right now.”
Switching to finance, demand remains steady for all the mainstream roles such as bookkeepers, accountants and financial controllers and in particular knowledge of international IFRS [International Financial Reporting Standards]. There has however been one particular change of direction, “We have noticed that increasing numbers of controllers are moving to more digital controlling, using tools such as Power BI and Tableau software. M&A is another area that is thriving here in Frankfurt and which the team will focus on even more in 2022,” adds Jannes.
Our remote way of working post-pandemic has also highlighted the need for new skills. “Clearly, managers have had to adapt and learn how to lead remotely as doing it from afar is so different. Finding loyal staff is difficult as remote working can make you lose that connection with your employer, so organisations are looking for people who will stay and help them navigate through the crisis,” he points out.
As for hybrid working models, candidates have come to expect an element of WFH. Jannes continues, “Given the current situation in Germany, the government has imposed mandatory remote working. But this was already a reality for many workers splitting their time between the two – it’s very tough to find candidates wo are prepared to work five days a week in the office. While developers and techies tend to work from home, most workers are looking for a 2:3 or 3: 2 model with a minimum of two days at home.”
Jannes also highlights the importance of non-verbal communication and why this can have such an impact on remote interviews – for both the hiring manager and candidate. “With so much hiring now done remotely through a screen, you don’t get to see the person’s body languages. Therefore both hiring managers and candidates must pay attention to their facial expressions and come across more enthusiastic and friendly than they would be normally so that they can connect in a better way virtually.”
Want to know more?
If you’re looking to hire your next digital or finance specialist, please get in touch with Jannes at jvonlintel@fyte.com or call +49 151 40 80 10 09.
Listen to the full interview with Jannes: