The just-released Atlanta Professional Employment Forecast from Robert Half indicates 17 percent of Atlanta chief financial officers (CFOs) expect their companies to create new jobs in the next six months. Another 75 percent plan to hire for open roles, compared to 67 percent in the previous six months. 

CFOs were asked, "What are your company's hiring plans for full-time, professional-level employees in the next six months?" Their responses:

"With recent corporate relocations to the Atlanta area, an optimistic business outlook for many executives and low unemployment rates, companies are finding it difficult to locate and hire skilled talent," said Andy Decker, senior regional president for Robert Half in Atlanta. "Demand is particularly strong for specialties including accountants, audit professionals, web developers, and financial and business analysts."

Recruiting Challenges
Organizations looking to add staff may face difficulties, Robert Half'sresearch shows. Sixty-one percent of Atlanta CFOs surveyed said it's somewhat or very challenging to find skilled candidates for professional-level positions today. 

Staffing issues remain a concern for companies. In a study by Protiviti and the Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Initiative at the North Carolina State University Poole College of Management, board members and senior executives cited the ability to attract and retain top talent as one of the top risks facing their businesses. The majority of respondents, 56 percent, felt it had a significant impact on their organizations.

Business Confidence
According to the Professional Employment Forecast, Atlanta CFOs are optimistic about their companies' growth. Ninety-four percent of executives reported being somewhat or very confident in their companies' prospects for growth in the next six months.