The majority of firms across the county say they expect to recruit new staff over the coming year - despite the on-going challenges posed by the pandemic.

But there is a warning of a major skills shortage which urgently needs addressing.

The findings were revealed in a survey commissioned by Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and Ashford-based HR GO Recruitment.

It revealed the "employment landscape has shifted significantly" over the past 12 months, with 60% of firm across Kent and Medway planning to hire over the year.

But it warns despite the demand, economic growth "may well be hampered" by a "severe lack of job applicants" with the necessary skills to fill the vacancies.

It says, as a result, many employers are now planning to review salary and benefits packages to attract applicants which could lead to wage inflation issues.

Other findings revealed nearly half of those firms quizzed were planning to permanently adopt a hybrid model of working from home and the workplace.

Jo James, CEO of the Kent Invicta Chamber, which represents firms across the county, said: “By carrying out this research the chamber has built a better understanding of the current and future needs of local businesses and of the support measures that it needs to consider.

"Skills shortages are clearly a threat to achieving future economic growth in the county. We will work hard with partners, such as the Kent & Medway Employment Taskforce, to identify the interventions required to address the issues highlighted in the survey that will have an impact on the growth ambitions of our business community.”

Julie Lewis Mackay, regional manager for Kent of HR GO Recruitment, added: “This research paints a clear picture of the recruitment challenges businesses face in the wake of Covid-19 and Brexit.

"It is now more important than ever for businesses to consider their employer brand, as well as the salary and benefits package they offer, in order to compete for the best candidates. For some roles, remote working provides an opportunity to widen the geographical talent pool."

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