Jobseekers with Cantonese, English and Mandarin language skills are at a distinct advantage in the growing Hong Kong economy.

The city continues to grow as an Asia hub for many international financial services firms. Its proximity to the mainland allows it to act as a gateway for global companies seeking to break into the China market. For this reason, trilingual candidates are in short supply and can command premium rates.

Spurring this demand are Chinese banks and financial institutions looking to recruit highly skilled candidates from the Hong Kong market, especially in the securities, brokerage and investment management space.

In the banking sector, quantitative analysts with strong programming skills are needed as funds continue to diversify. Relationship managers are also sought as banks refocus on growing their corporate banking businesses, where there is a steady stream of income.

Increased business flow resulting from the addition of local and mainland corporate relationship managers has created a need for experienced approvers to review and approve transactions. Skills in equities sales and sales trading, corporate finance, front-office ibanking compliance, AML advisory and private wealth management compliance are also in demand.

Financial services candidates with overseas experience are highly regarded by employers as they can offer insights into different ways of doing business. As in the banking sector, there is an increasing need for candidates with both written and spoken Chinese language skills due to the growing number of roles available at Chinese financial institutions.

Christine Wright, managing director of Hays in Asia.