The Rise of the Returning Expat
Over the last six months, our UK resourcing manager Vikki Cox has seen a sharp rise in interest from overseas candidates. Australian and New Zealand legal professionals heading home are actively looking for their next career move. But securing this talent requires a strategic approach from employers. You need to understand their unique motivations and challenges to bring them on board.
Flexibility and Financial Realities
You must offer absolute flexibility on start dates to secure the best people. I have recently placed two lawyers where the start dates are set for the end of 2026. This allows them to wrap up their lives abroad without unnecessary stress. Especially for those litigators who want to finish that last big hearing or settlement. So, patience from employers is highly rewarded in this market.
Furthermore, the pain of the pound to the dollar change in salary is very real for returning expats. You need to sharpen the pencil as much as you can without tipping the balance with your wider team. Because base salaries might be lower, you may want to consider offer sign-on bonuses or relocation expenses. Covering the cost of flights or bringing their belongings back takes some of that financial hit away..
Bridging the Local Knowledge Gap
If returning lawyers have been out of the local market for a while, you must help them get on the right track. Be honest if you think they will take time to get back up to speed with New Zealand legislation. You can offer a deal that includes a review of their title and salary after six months. This allows them to get up to speed without feeling out-knowledged by someone on a lower job title than them.
Senior practitioners will also want to know how they will be networked. You must clearly explain how the firm will support them to build their own client bases upon their return.
Sell the Work and the Culture
Remember that those who went on their OE did it to explore and party, but they also went to work on larger, more complex projects. You must sell yourself, your team, and the quality of the work. Highlight the interesting files they will be managing from day one. Returning expats want to know that coming home does not mean a step back in their career trajectory.
Get in Touch
If you have a gap in your team, finding a Kiwi returning to NZ could be a great fit. Get in touch so we can share your opportunity with our overseas networks. We have a dedicated resource manager who exclusively focuses on New Zealand legal professionals heading home.
Alternatively, if you are based overseas and want an insight into the local market, please reach out to me today.
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