Expatriate accountants in Maltese accountancy firms : the recruiter perspective

Abstract

Purpose: The objectives of this study focus on analysing any changes that have occurred in the recruitment of expatriate accountants within accountancy firms, and understanding the viewpoint of accountancy firms’ recruiters on the employment of such professionals. This study also considers recruitment and retention strategies exerted by such recruiters towards non-local accountants as well as government actions implemented to adjust for the rise in non-national accountants. Design: Objectives were achieved through the application of a mono-qualitative research design, whereby interviews with relevant participants were conducted. Such participants were senior HR employees within the Big Four, mid-tier and small accountancy firms, and a Jobsplus representative. Findings: Findings revealed that expatriate accountants were recruited amongst firms of all three firm size brackets, mainly due to the shortage of local accountants available. Although recruiters underlined several benefits in the employment of non-national professionals, drawbacks were also outlined. Results indicated that the majority of recruiters did not undertake specific action targeted at retaining their expatriate professionals. Whilst several government initiatives can aid the recruitment of non-local professionals, such initiatives were not referred to by recruiters. Conclusions: This study concludes that the employment of non-national professionals is vital to firms of all three bracket sizes, therefore recruiters should consider applying dedicated strategies to improve the integration and retention of their expatriate accountants, encouraging such professionals to continue relocating to Malta. On the other hand, recruiters may try to attract local professionals back to their firms through exerting innovative marketing strategies. Value: This study aims to assist recruiters in acknowledging their current employment strategies and recognising where changes to their methods would be favourable to their firms. It also hopes to enhance the understanding behind the employment of expatriate accountants for the accountancy professions’ relevant stakeholders.