INSIGHT
Now in its fourth year , the iGB-Pentasia salary survey is the sector ’ s most comprehensive benchmarking of global igaming pay . On page 55 , Pentasia ’ s Gareth Mulley looks at how pay has changed for those working in marketing roles across igaming . But first company MD Alastair Cleland introduces an overview of the headline trends , led by a talent shortage which is sending salaries and recruitment costs spiralling in all parts of the industry
T he past 12 months have seen truly unprecedented demand for all types of igaming talent , exceeding even the frenzy of our industry ’ s early days . Employers across the sector are struggling to find talent to match the level and pace of investment .
Serious pain is being caused . Core operational teams are under-resourced . Expansion plans cannot be actioned . Investments are under-delivering .
Across the world , talent shortages now present a debilitating barrier to igaming ’ s growth .
This year ’ s eye-catching 12 % average salary growth rate is therefore unsurprising . In many areas , though , increases of in excess of 25 % are now commonplace . Employers with recruitment backlogs are having to pay whatever is required .
SKILLS IN DEMAND
Tech skills are by far the most difficult to recruit and retain . It ’ s a challenge that ’ s required an entirely new playbook including specialist recruiting teams , fast-track hiring processes and an entirely open-minded approach to location and working structures .
Salaries for tech specialists rose by 12 % on average this year , though chunky pay rises have been achieved by many as a dire talent shortage continues to bite . Pay rates are now almost entirely set based on skillsets , regardless of location .
Compliance and legal professionals are also winning big , enjoying 26 % salary growth . Their workload , though , is cripplingly high . Updates and upgrades to regulation will keep demand for expertise elevated well into 2022 and beyond .
There ’ s also significant salary growth within sales , where rates have recovered sharply following a pandemic-induced dip , and data analysis , whose businesscritical skills command a premium . People-focused HR leaders are also in high demand .
INVESTING FOR EXPANSION
As industry investment rides high , 65 % of companies are forecasting workforce growth in 2022 , up 8 % on last year . And yet , the reality of today ’ s recruitment market is one of increasing desperation .
Delays in recruitment are costly . Investors seeking financial returns can ill afford to wait for talent . Further increases to salary rates therefore seem certain .
Employers have been compelled to accept candidates ’ numerous other demands too . Most notably , the industry is now moving ‘ beyond location ’. Hybrid work has emerged as the new
Q1 2022 • ISSUE 89 • 57