The results, released Friday, reveal net earnings in the quarter of $216.3m (£152.1m) compared to $127.4m a year earlier, and revenues of $5.6bn, an increase of 14% in Q4 2016.

The results statement also revealed full year 2017 net earnings of $545.4m, up from $443.7m in 2016, with revenues of $21bn, up 7% on the previous year.

Commenting on the results, ManpowerGroup chairman and CEO Jonas Prising reflected on a “strong” performance in the fourth quarter, with improved revenue growth and good profitability.

“These strong quarterly results capped off the full year 2017 where we delivered strong top line growth and profit performance. 

“The war for talent is intensifying globally, and our clients are focused on finding the best talent and building their organisational agility, while individuals are interested in opportunities that build their skills and advance their careers. 

“We have anticipated these market trends, and as we start 2018, we are confident that our superior global footprint, our extensive portfolio of workforce solutions and our great people put us in a formidable position to continue to create value for our clients and candidates.”

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