How will a general election shape the market in 2024?
After a difficult 2023 which saw leaders tightening budgets and stalling decision making,
Political instability during the winter of 2022/2023 brought a feeling of unease. The cost-of-living crisis was a barrage of bad news telling us to save money, spend less and cut our bills. There were two changes of prime minister and a cascade of disrupted decision making.
Fewer projects and programmes were kicking off and there was a general lack of budget clarity and long-term thinking. All in all, a negative spiral meant leaders hiring less. Less hiring then meant fewer people leaving jobs and less natural attrition.
Leaders chose not to bring in new talent and generally held on to what they had during 2023, and most contractors and consultants remained engaged on their current projects.
2024 will bring a potential change of government and this is usually a good thing for talent firms. With some projects cancelled and other projects pushed forward, public sector professionals find themselves playing a game of musical chairs. Will this mean a clear direction and agenda
The challenges faced in 2023 meant the public sector had to look at cost effective ways to recruit and retain talent. Innovative hiring strategies and the implementation of surge contracting helped leaders provide flexible, skilled teams precisely when and where they were needed. With political change possible in 2024, leaders need to be ready to meet demands set by the potential of new policies and priorities.
Will the potential of a general election in 2024 lead to a change of direction in public sector recruitment?
To find out more on the key areas procurement leaders need to prepare for in 2024, check out our
