Why Now's the Perfect Moment to Hire Associates

While the market has picked up over the past 6–8 weeks, hiring in the first quarter was relatively sluggish, impacted by a mix of global macroeconomic and socio-political uncertainties. Additionally, local government policies have increased operating costs for FMCG and consumer businesses more than in other sectors, leading to cautious hiring strategies.

Since people are at the core of delivering exceptional service to end consumers, companies are seeking ways to mitigate costs while maintaining operational efficiency. Leadership teams have responded by reviewing budgets, making strategic cuts, and adopting more flexible hiring approaches rather than simply replacing headcount on a like-for-like basis.

Alternative Talent Resources for Businesses

To navigate these challenges, businesses can explore various talent resource options beyond traditional permanent hiring.

These include:

• Interim professionals – Skilled individuals hired on short-term contracts to bridge immediate gaps.
• Consultants and project-based specialists – Experts brought in to tackle specific business challenges.
• Fractional or part-time executives – Senior leaders engaged on a flexible basis to provide strategic input without the long-term commitment.
• Outsourced solutions – External partners managing specific business functions.

One effective solution we’ve seen at 4P Connect is the rise in 3- to 6-month interim assignments. These allow businesses to maintain continuity until the end of a financial year or while determining long-term hiring plans.

Managing Costs and Risks with Interim Solutions

Although consultants and interim professionals come with an associated cost (including VAT), they offer significant savings by avoiding employer National Insurance and benefits expenses. This makes the commercial impact considerably lower compared to hiring a permanent employee on an interim basis.

Beyond cost, risk aversion is another key benefit. Unlike permanent hires, consultants are brought in for specific projects and selected based on the precise skills needed by the client. In contrast, a wrong permanent hire not only incurs additional costs but also places further strain on an already pressured business.

The Need for a Flexible Hiring Approach

As the UK FMCG industry navigates ongoing economic pressures, businesses must think differently about workforce planning. The challenge of having too much work and not enough staff or time has existed for years, but now, alternative hiring solutions are more relevant than ever.

It’s time to ask: What hiring strategies could your business adopt to maintain agility and resilience in a changing market?