In Russia, ongoing staffing gaps have pushed up the demand for temporary workers, with needs rising by two to three times in some sectors. Employers are increasingly seeking talent in areas like social media management, marketing, graphic design, and accounting. This shift has been highlighted by recruitment agencies and reported in various outlets.
Within a year, the appetite for certain roles surged significantly: SMM specialists saw a rise of around 65%, marketers about 54%, and accountants roughly 48%, according to coverage from Izvestia. The demand for skilled professionals in digital and financial functions continues to outpace supply as firms adapt to a tighter labor market.
Other fields also experienced notable gains. Web designers climbed by approximately 47%, lawyers by 38%, programmers by 35%, and copywriters by 28%. The broad pattern shows a shift toward specialized, knowledge-based roles as companies reassess staffing models and project-based work.
The publications note that many companies are pursuing cost containment strategies by leaning on flexible staff rather than adding permanent headcount. For workers, this translates into income volatility, reduced social protection, and slower progression on corporate ladders. The instability can complicate long-term career planning and benefits access for those in temporary arrangements.
Earlier, leaders in Russia’s economic policy sphere suggested that a surplus of certain roles, such as security personnel and accountants, may be contributing to suboptimal productivity within enterprises. The discussion highlighted a broader debate about balancing workforce composition with productivity goals.
There has also been caution from top officials about overly optimistic expectations for quick, sweeping improvements. Stakeholders emphasize the importance of strategic, sustainable policies that align hiring practices with real economic needs and workforce development opportunities.
Overall, the labor market is undergoing a period of recalibration. For employers, the emphasis is on flexible, high-demand skill sets that can deliver immediate value on key projects. For workers, the focus is on building in-demand competencies, securing social protections where possible, and planning career moves that can weather short-term shifts in demand. These dynamics shape compensation, job security, and the long-term viability of non-permanent employment structures in the Russian economy. [Source: News and Izvestia reports]