Recruiter adds to growing evidence economy is getting better

It said the UK delivered strong growth as fees – the money it makes from providing staff – rose 13 per cent in the first quarter to the end of September, aided by good performances from its senior finance and IT units.

The group, which employs over 8,000 staff in 33 countries, grew nine per cent on a like-for-like basis and is looking to hire more consultants.

It added that it was the first time its three largest markets – the UK, Germany and Australia – had grown at the same time for almost four years.

Earlier this week, rival business Robert Walters reported good conditions in the UK and said profits were ahead of expectations.

Hays chief executive Alistair Cox said: “While we are mindful of the risks our world faces today, most of our markets continue to improve and we are focused on capitalising on the opportunities this presents us.

“This means continuing to invest to make our business more productive, while simultaneously increasing consultant capacity where market demand dictates.”

In the UK, which accounts for 35 per cent of fees, temporary placements grew seven per cent and permanent work jumped 20 per cent. It added that fees in the North grew by over 20 per cent.