Rise of the Middle

Bob Weinstein is a journalist who covers technology, project management, the workplace and career development.

  Career Development   Manufacturing  

Three years ago, middle managers weren't faring so well, especially in technology companies. As companies cut budgets and pared down staffs, they were deemed an unnecessary luxury and were among the first to go.

As the economy picks up more steam, many middle managers have stopped singing the blues. Throughout the first half of 2005, there will be increased hiring of middle managers, according to the 55th International Hiring Survey released by Angott Search Group inb Rochester Hills, Minn. Renaissance project managers are in particularly good shape.

"Companies that have been very cautious about making new hires now are gearing up for expansion," says Mark Angott, president of ASG. "They feel confident about investing in their businesses by adding the staff they need to increase market share."

The hiring trend started during the last half of 2004 and is gaining momentum, Angott observes. "We've not seen these kinds of numbers since 2001," he says.

Construction topped ASG's hiring list, followed by consumer goods/products, aerospace/aviation, manufacturing/production and health care.

Along with natural expansion due to increased demand for products and services, Angott feels that new federal requirements, such as compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, have prompted CEOs to hire seasoned managers solely responsible…

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