Over 22,500 HR jobs were created as businesses emerged from the worst of the economic downturn.
The downturn had a significant impact on HR professionals, with the number of those employed in managerial or directorial roles in the sector falling by nearly 44,000 (28%) between Q2 2009 and Q2 2011. The recovery in permanent HR employment is matched by a rise in demand for senior interim HR staff among businesses wanting to grow and implement change, despite uncertainty surrounding the economy.
Nicholas Croucher, manager of the Ortus interim division, said: "While HR staff were fundamental to helping businesses restructure during the recession in late 2008 and early 2009, the HR industry certainly wasn't immune to headcount reductions taking place either."
He added: "It is hugely encouraging to now see a significant rise in HR employment, albeit this has predominantly been in the change management and organisational development space."
Separate research by Ortus shows the number of interim vacancies in the HR sector between January and September this year has risen 45% compared to the same period last year. The average day rate for an interim HR change manager is now £600.
On average, it takes senior HR interims 150 days to earn the equivalent gross salary they would have received in the same permanent role. Interim HR directors can earn their equivalent permanent salary the quickest, taking just 131 days, claims Ortus.
Croucher said: "It is important to note that interim roles don't offer the same security as permanent positions and many don't come with benefits packages. Regardless of earning potential, the key drivers for HR professionals of this calibre moving into an interim role centre on achieving better work-life balance and the excitement of fresh challenges."
He added: "With uncertainty surrounding the economy at the moment, hiring senior HR staff on a short-term basis can also be highly beneficial for many businesses, providing highly skilled individuals a greater flexibility to adapt to market changes."
The research carried out by ONS was part of its Labour Force Survey 2012. The analysis of interim HR vacancies recorded by Ortus took place between January and September this year. it surveyed 123 senior HR interims and contractors.
