The growth of Chinese multinational corporations will intensify talent competition this year, according to the latest annual Global Salary Survey conducted by global specialist professional recruitment consultancy Robert Walters (RW).

According to RW, professionals now view Chinese companies as an attractive employment option due to their promising prospects and competitive remuneration packages, which often include employee stock options.

Figures from the survey suggest that job-movers received on average 15% to 25% increments in 2014, while those who stayed at their current companies received increments ranging between 6% and 8%. These trends look set to continue in 2015, and companies are likely to invest more in benefits, training and development to attract and retain the best talent.

RW China managing director Arthur Wang said the recruitment market is becoming even more competitive, as foreign companies continue to enter and develop in the Chinese market, while fast-growing domestic companies look to expand overseas.

“Candidates with international experience, local market knowledge as well as strong English and Mandarin language skills are highly sought-after by these organisations. As professionals pay more attention to long-term career paths, employers will need to offer opportunities for career progression to secure top talent in this candidate-driven market," he said in a statement.

RW also stated that as companies look to increase profitability and manage cost, professionals who can streamline processes and improve product quality across the supply chain, manufacturing and operations functions will be in high demand.

Internal up-skilling will continue to be a key focus for traditional internal support functions such as human resources, accounting and finance. "Companies are seeking professionals with strong communication skills and commercial acumen, with the ability to add value to the business," said RW.

Professionals with experience in the digital, e-commerce and mobile space will be highly sought-after as the digital sector continues to develop rapidly. Other key growth industries include automotive, healthcare, electronics and telecommunications.

There will be an increase in demand for mid to senior-level professionals in second-tier cities, such as Suzhou and Nanjing, as these markets continue to mature and require more experienced professionals to fill management-level positions.

"New projects and investments from non-manufacturing companies, such as IT, hotels, professional services and research and development centres, will boost recruitment levels in Suzhou and Nanjing," RW said.