The consensus seems to be that the recession is over and we can now expect growth in the economy to begin. Unfortunately, as many of you know, jobs are always the last thing that recovers following a recession. Today's job report showed that new claims for jobless benefits fell to 550,000 versus the expected 560,000. While this is good news in the fact that the worse seems to be over, there is still not enough confidence for full-fledged hiring to begin.
In the energy sector, a report indicated that Shell continues to go through their major restructuring previously announced by the new CEO in attempt to simplify the organization. The report indicated that Shell's upper level management count was reduced by about 20% from about 750 t0 600 and now each department is finalizing plans to reduce their organizations. Some posters have indicated that employees are having to reapply for their jobs or can apply for others.
Hopefully we will see a recovery in jobs in the energy sector soon.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Sunday, August 16, 2009
HR Hiring Activity in Energy
Last last year and early this year (first month or so) -- there were several senior level HR jobs out for search in the industry. Then during February, March and part of April - it seemed to just dry up. Many jobs were put on hold, retirements were postponed and HR hiring activity stalled. Then it appeared that activity was starting up in late April and May -- but then the summer came and jobs stalled again.
There are some jobs that are being filled - but nowhere near the level that the industry has seen in the past. I have some inquiries about temporary or contract help - but even this seems to be quiet. My experience is that there is cost control efforts and bringing in anyone new - is noticeable and questions are asked.
Looking out - oil prices have recovered some, demand looks good in the out years for oil (think China)... so hopefully hiring activity will pick up. Natural Gas prices in U.S. are still under pressure and so are Natural Gas companies, so don't expect much for awhile.
There are some jobs that are being filled - but nowhere near the level that the industry has seen in the past. I have some inquiries about temporary or contract help - but even this seems to be quiet. My experience is that there is cost control efforts and bringing in anyone new - is noticeable and questions are asked.
Looking out - oil prices have recovered some, demand looks good in the out years for oil (think China)... so hopefully hiring activity will pick up. Natural Gas prices in U.S. are still under pressure and so are Natural Gas companies, so don't expect much for awhile.
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