More Midlands aerospace jobs as industry looks beyond costs and Brexit concerns

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More than half of Midlands-based aerospace and defence firms expect to take on extra staff in the remainder of this year despite accelerating employment costs, a skills shortage and looming Brexit concerns, according to Consilium Recruit.

A study carried out by the Midlands-based engineering recruitment firm reveals that 51% of businesses in the region who manufacture and supply to the aerospace sector expect their headcount to rise.

The Aerospace Salary Guide also shows that one third of the companies surveyed do not expect job losses, despite uncertainly over the European Union exit deal, with 32% stating it is too early to tell how Brexit will affect them.

Says Consilium Recruit business manager James Charlett (pictured): “The UK aerospace industry is experiencing strong and sustained growth with deliveries in the first half of 2017 worth a record £13bn to the UK sector alone. However, Brexit negotiations will play an important part in determining whether the UK aerospace sector can now realise its full potential and capitalise on the opening of new markets in addition to maintaining existing trade arrangements.

“This is a truly global industry and we need an outcome that ensures access to customers, skills and influence in order to remain globally competitive. The main and most pressing concern remains the shortage of engineering talent. This, coupled with the global aircraft order backlog at an all-time high, means that the severe skills shortages being experienced in the sector are expected to only worsen.

“The government must clarify its future visa policy so that ambitious firms can not only attract global talent into the UK, but also give a clear message to those already here that they are welcome.”