Active fund managers were the most sought after professionals in February, according to recruitment firm Morgan McKinley, with groups looking for talented, multi-lingual individuals amid global expansion plans.
In the firm's London Employment Monitor for February 2016, asset management was the most popular sector within financial services from a recruitment perspective.
Marcus Williams, manager of the Morgan McKinley investment management finance business, said active fund managers and support staff were of particular interest to recruiters, as well as those familiar with the upcoming changes to the regulatory framework.
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"For job seekers in 2016, asset management is the industry to be in," he said.
"Asset managers are now looking for talent across the business. For front-office staff, there is a demand for active portfolio managers and analysts.
"As asset management firms of all sizes seek to expand internationally, there is also demand for support roles, particularly for those with relevant skills in navigating the regulatory environment."
Multi-lingual professionals were said to be able to secure more attractive packages as asset managers look to widen their distribution overseas.
"Linguistic ability is an advantage when influencing business leaders in Asia," said Williams.
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"This is even more important in mid-market asset managers, who do not have offices in these locations. Therefore, those able to converse in these areas are able to command the top salaries within the industry."
The report also said employers are continuing the trend of cutting bonuses in favour of increasing fixed pay, as a result of regulatory changes and European rules which limit bonuses to twice the fixed pay for key executives.
