Deloitte study: Shortage of skilled labor slows economic growth | Factory Construction | sectors

According to the survey of Deloitte's CFOs, the climate of Austrian companies has weakened significantly in recent months. This can be attributed to an increased feeling of insecurity. Above all, the persistent shortage of specialists employs national finance chiefs: according to the study, 61% of respondents consider that the lack of skilled labor poses a high risk. In addition, geopolitical risks and cybersecurity problems also cause respondents' headaches.

"The skills shortage is the number one issue in the economy, and the lack of technical know-how and insufficient training of potential employees is a sticking point, and entrepreneurs often complain about the lack of skills. experience, "confirms Gerhard Marterbauer, partner at Deloitte Austria.

As education levels will not change in the short term, companies are turning more and more to themselves and looking for talent. As a result, most financial managers cite the most attractive design of the work environment and the expansion of target groups in the search for employees as targeted measures to meet the challenge. But increased automation is also a possible solution for many.

Not surprisingly, CFOs also commented critically on the attractiveness of Austria as a site. For example, the lack of manpower, the difficult regulatory environment and the high costs continue to have a negative impact on economic development, according to CFOs. These topics are also not expected to improve significantly next year.

"The critics are not new.The Austrian CFOs had been hoping for years for simplification and deregulation measures to facilitate on-site operations, and so far they have not noticed any significant improvements here. to see what measures the policy will take in the new year, "said Gerhard Marterbauer. The quality of life continues to be the big bonus.

The CFO's depressed mood also slows their appetite for risk. 72% currently do not wish to take any major risks. However, changes in the corporate landscape are still expected: nearly half of the national financial executives surveyed believe they may be involved in a merger and acquisition transaction on the buyer's side in the near future. Domestic or foreign direct competitors are designated as the most likely candidates for redemption.

The entire CFO study is available here.