PHOENIX, July 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Vaco Arizona, a leading consulting and placement firm for financial and technology professionals, today announced that it has seen a 30 percent increase in hiring for its contract consultant and permanent placement candidates over a similar period in 2011.

According to Valdo Melton, Managing Partner, Vaco Arizona, “The hiring of finance and technology talent, whether it be on a consulting basis or for permanent placement, is a good sign for the general employment market because it indicates companies expect to grow and implement strategic initiatives that have been set aside the last few years.”

According to Melton, the upswing in hiring has come both from large corporate clients and from new startups and small businesses.

“We’re seeing significant growth in high tech, software, healthcare, and some pickup in manufacturing. Arizona also has a notable number of new high tech startups being fueled by private equity and angel investment.”

Melton stated that there is a major emphasis on compliance with regulatory requirements, and companies are bringing in experienced workers to help get their systems aligned.

“For example, any firm, even very small ones that accept credit card payments, must be PCI-compliant, and companies are looking for professionals with this kind of experience to get them set up properly. There is also a definite demand for security, and in healthcare, for electronic medical records compliance.”

For people in the financial and technology arenas who may be looking for work, in school, or considering a job change, Melton states that there is a strong demand for credentialed professionals. The most sought-after credential is a CPA. Also in high demand are CISA (certified information systems auditor), CISSP (certified information systems security professional) and CFA (chartered financial analyst). MBAs are still valuable as well.

“This is good to keep in mind for people in school or considering pursuing a certification,” says Melton. “It’s worth it in the job market today.”

Melton also advises that financial or technology specialists may want to consider consulting work in their fields versus full-time employment.

“Consulting is a very in-demand profession and consultants enjoy a special lifestyle. For those who are suited both by talent and by temperament, consulting is an excellent option for many IT and accounting and finance professionals.”

“The bottom line on the upswing in technology and finance hiring,” says Melton, “is that it indicates an overall improved business climate. Good news for all of Arizona and the nation.”

About Vaco Arizona

Vaco Arizona is a leading consulting and executive search firm specializing in finance, accounting and technology professionals for both contract and direct hire placements. Further information on Vaco Arizona can be found at www.vaco.com/phoenix, or by calling (602) 633-1300.

CONTACT:
Deborah Jones
Strategies
deborah@strategiesadpr.com
(714) 957-8880, ext. 113

SOURCE Vaco Arizona