There are currently an estimated 20,000 unfilled jobs in the consultancy and engineering sector, according to a damning report by the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE).

The findings of the ACE HR Review on skills shortages and recruitment agency behaviours underline the urgent need to address the current skills shortage gripping the consultancy and engineering industry with a further 2,400 vacancies expected in the next 12 months.

The report found that a staggering 80% of respondents said recruitment agencies provide an “average to poor quality” service. It also condemns the artificial market created by unscrupulous practices, including poaching staff within six months of placing them.

ACE chief executive, Nelson Ogunshakin, says: “The Review confirms that recruitment and staff retention is a serious issue affecting our sector. ACE will be taking steps to address the issues raised, including plans for the introduction of a Recruitment Agency Charter, the development of a recruitment portal and the implementation of a new ACE Business Academy in 2008.”