India Inc finds the (short and) sweet spot when hiring expats
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Search firms and company executives said this is a growing trend in sectors such as retail, manufacturing, industrial, life sciences, automotive, oil and gas, aluminium, smart infrastructure, enterprise solutions, semiconductors and renewables.
These expats mostly come in for six months to two years for roles focused on short-term projects or technical leadership. Some of these candidates are using these as gigs after retirement and are keen because their expertise is much sought after. Pay is high too-$3,000-4,000 a day for advisors and $200,000-300,000 plus bonus annually for others, said search firms. «The trend toward short-term expatriate assignments is driven by a combination of factors such as the desire for global talent, cost control and project-specific expertise. This approach allows companies to leverage international skills and knowledge while managing logistical challenges, expenses and long-term commitment risks,» said James Agrawal, managing director of BTI Executive Search India.
Given the short-term nature of the assignments, families don't moved, making hiring easier, said Insist Consulting MD R Suresh. Expats often come as advisors and are content, he said. «One of them recently said, 'give me an internet connection, a tennis court and I'll go anywhere in India' (such jobs are sometimes in remote industrial locations).»
Navnit Singh, India MD at
