QSs Wanted

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) in July reported that QSs have been added to the UK Home office list of professionals that are facing skill shortages. The profession is now on the national shortage occupation list. This move is hoped to allow UK firms to recruit skill practitioners from other countries.

Recent RICS research revealed there are around 6,500 QS vacancies across the UK in January 2007, and 49% of this were unfilled for more then 6 months and 35% for mote than 12 months. This shortage will be around for at least until 2012 as the country is preparing facilities for the Olympics and other regeneration projects.

With QSs on this list, it will be easier for foreign professionals to gain visas to enter and work in the UK.

Malaysia also appear to be facing QS shortages. While a small numbers have applied and gone to wok in the UK, Ireland and other countries, the biggest attraction are from contractors who have secured jobs in the Arab and Gulf countries who offer salaries never seen by local QSs before.

I wish I was younger so I can at least experience working overseas for longer periods.