Those with solid multi-language skills have an edge over competitors.

Learning how to speak and conduct business in fluent Mandarin just might give you an edge over your competitors in Hong Kong’s competitive job market, according to Hays Hong Kong’s Top Ten Talent Trends for 2018.

As companies look to tap into Mainland China, there is an elevated demand for Mandarin-speaking financial controllers, CFOs, financial directors and HR professionals, Hays forecasts.

Additionally, candidates with in-depth IT knowledge especially in the areas of cyber security, machine learning and web development remain highly in-demand as retail and investment banks are projected to offer attractive salaries to entice the best in IT talent as they ramp up their digital efforts.

Regional exposure is also preferred in human resources as many companies will continue to utilise Hong Kong as host of regional centres of excellence. Hays forecasts that there will be an increase in demand for strategic HR business partners with strong commercial acumen.

In the pharmaceutical and medical devices sector, there will be an expected surge in hiring for sales and marketing candidates as new product launches in specialised clinical areas will drive demand for professionals from the creative industries.

“Another example can be found in the pharmaceutical and medical devices sector where candidates with a creative flair rather than a medical degree are in high demand to drive marketing and sales initiatives,” said Hays Hong Kong Managing Director Dean Stallard.

Moreover, those with strong background in consumer insight and analytics are projected to be in demand to attract and retain a loyal customer base.