Ulster Bank is making big cuts, but if you lose your job there, it need not be totally terminal: quite a few places are still hiring in Ireland and it’s not as bleak as in 2009. In fact, Paul McClatchie at Careers Register says that December 2011 was their “highest revenue since mid-2008”. The key is to be flexible.

Where to look

So, where should Ulster Bank employees be looking for work? McClatchie says there are three strong areas at the moment.

First of all: fund accounting (along with risk and compliance) is strong. Dublin“is a global fund marketplace….although candidates may need to upskill to get a job,” explains McClatchie.

Failing that, you may want to try retail sales positions. “If you have a QFA, there are more opportunities around in retail banks”, McClatchie continues.

Finally, he says jobs in general customer service and sales are buoyant: “There are several US multinationals in Irelandwho all have big customer service sections”

Not permanent

Sadly, much of this work is not permanent. Contracts typically range from 3-9 months.  Hilarie Geary, of Executive Connections, believes that “there are good levels of contract and interim work available in the market with an emphasis on opportunities within finance, accountancy, compliance, debt collection, risk, legal and treasury.”

However, just because roles are temporary, it doesn’t mean that they won’t be useful.

McClatchie’s advice is to “take a longer term view….people who are working hard and staying focussed will see results. You need to have a really good understanding of how your role adds value to the business while highlighting specific achievements”

Taking on a short-term contract, may add weight to your CV, says Geary. “If you can get into an organization in an interim capacity, you can exhibit your skills and strengths. Once within an organisation you can identify other opportunities which may arise and move within the business. It’s an opportunity to add weight, create a need and potentially a full time role within the division you’re employed in, or indeed an alternative department.”

Keep positive

On the upside, there may well be a sense of relief for Ulster Bank employees. McClatchie says “Many have been waiting a long time to hear what was going to happen. At least now they can move on”.

So even if you are one of the unlucky 950, take heart. There are still financial jobs out there, and you’ve been working at a CV-friendly location. Geary says that, at Ulster Bank, “Retention has always been high, as investment in training has been paramount to support personal growth. Ulster Bank has always been seen as an excellent employer. ”