There is no doubt that many individuals aspire to senior positions within the ICT field, since it is probably the most competitive and fastest growing industry in the world today.
Typically, and particularly within those countries that boast very large ICT companies, such as France, Germany, India, UK and US, the requirements for filling the top positions are very different to those needed in the South African context.
"The profile needed in SA is not only very different but has also changed dramatically over recent years," commented Lesley Mawhinney, Head of the ICT Practice at Leaders Unlimited, the strategic Partner for Korn/Ferry International on the African continent.
"Historically, it was not uncommon for the `top man` to have come up through the ranks of the technology industry and therefore have an in-depth understanding of the sector. However, today`s candidate is likely to be an affirmative action graduate who also has an MBA; and one that has a strong business understanding combined with a knowledge of the ICT sector and exposure to the international market, that often arises from a period overseas within a blue chip ICT organisation. In addition, the top requirements in this country are often for a strong sales background and orientation, coupled with an extensive network of contacts and specific knowledge of the public sector, since the placement is often seen as strategic one by the overseas principal.
"This profile is very different from that expounded by Gita Dang, a senior client partner from Korn/Ferry International and a person who specialises in the recruitment of senior executives within the technology arena," added Mawhinney.
"Naturally, the organisational requirements here are very different with relatively little R&D being undertaken locally, thus explaining why Gita suggests that a management and engineering combination is the ideal profile together with over 18 years of experience within the industry.
"This is yet another example that underpins the claim that the ICT profile and associated dynamics in SA are unique and bear little resemblance to any other ICT market around the world," concluded Mawhinney. "Unfortunately, this is often a message that overseas companies find difficult to accept."
For further information, please contact Lesley Mawhinney, Leaders Unlimited: telephone (011) 722 1600, fax (011) 722 1611, e-mail Lmawhinney@leadersunlimited.co.za.
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Leaders Unlimited is a leading global provider of recruitment solutions. Its portfolio of services includes senior-level executive search, specialised skills, middle management recruitment and leadership/management assessment.
Leaders Unlimited`s unique value proposition combines the synergy of many years of experience and expertise in international executive search with extensive regional networks and knowledge of the local business environment. It provides its clients with the highest quality, most innovative and professional counsel and services in a collegial, stimulating work environment.
Leaders Unlimited is the strategic partner for the Africa continent of New York-listed Korn/Ferry International, one of the leading global providers of executive human capital resources.
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