The search for Etail talent: Finding and keeping the best people

Jonathan talks to Drapers

For their October issue, our chief panda Jonathan spoke to Drapers as they discussed just why ecommerce talent moves so quickly. Using the results of our ecommerce salary survey, and some input from industry experts, what did they find? Here are our highlights from the article:

• River Island’s ecommerce development manager, Helen Colclough, notes that deep ecommerce specialisms pose a great challenge to recruiters because of the growing industry. “There is a real opportunity for progression and the chance to move up the ladder quickly…this can make life hard for recruiters to try to decipher what someone’s experience is. Add to this changing job titles, new methodologies and new specialisms and it becomes harder to navigate the candidate landscape.” This is highlighted in our salary survey results: only 4% of respondents have been in their roles for more than five years.
• Jonathan highlights that the sizes of ecommerce teams contribute towards ecommerce professionals moving on quickly. “Most ecommerce teams are between 5 and 20 people, even for retailers with turnovers of up to £30m, so people move on quickly to be able to progress…On the other hand, if you are working in a niche market, you are in demand.” Our salary survey had a look at the most important aspect of a role, where feeling valued and respected was the most popular answer. Are companies doing enough to show their staff the work is appreciated? Those in a niche market, at the moment, are in a lucky position that the demand comes to them.
• Neil Sansom, former omnichannel director at Moss Bros, also notices the fast pace of career progression. “People also tend to move quickly in terms of roles because of the demand for skills and to get better salaries.”  It’s interesting to see that Digital marketing executives are in demand, as well as data science and analytical roles. These specific skills mean candidates can use their skills to their advantage, and find roles tailored to them.
• Other areas that are a challenge are: UX/UI, in-house web designers and search specialists. “Even junior web designers are going freelance to get more variety and more money.” Jonathan explains. The chance for an exciting, varied role with the chance to be specific on salary means freelancers really are making the most of their skills.

It’s a great read so if you can get your hands on a copy, don’t hesitate! You can subscribe right here.