Ninety three percent of business students studying at some of the world's leading universities in 23 different countries, and are on the verge of entering the workforce, said that they were concerned about the impact of ongoing geopolitical risk and instability on their careers, KPMG International said in its third annual survey. However, despite this finding, they maintained a global outlook, with nearly the same number (89%) saying they would be prepared to move regularly to a different country for the right job opportunity. Eighty percent also said they expected to work in 3-6 countries during their career. This year's survey also showed that a significant majority of students would consider working for the same company for their entire career (70%), with 20% of those even saying it was likely, or indeed very likely. The students also showed they have a focus on the future, 64% already have a clear idea of what profession they want to work in. Finance (37%) and Professional Services (27%) were two industries the students labeled as most desirable to them. Technology, which in 2014 was favored by 18% of students, had less appeal in 2016 with only 8% picking it out as a desirable industry to work in. This is despite the fact that among the students, 66% said they expected the technology sector to be the most successful over the next 20 years, professional services (15%) and finance (10%) both ranked well below this. Rachel Campbell, KPMG's Global Head of People, speaking from Dubai, where KPMG is this week hosting the final of KPMG's leading student International Case Competition said, "I think it's really interesting that the vast majority of students would consider working at the same company for their entire career. Millennials and Gen Y are seeing the value that large multinational organizations can bring to their careers. As businesses grow their global footprint and service offerings, people now have a greater opportunity than ever before to have several different careers within one organization." "This finding was backed-up when we asked the students to rank the most important factors in choosing a company to work for; career opportunities, professional challenges, continuous training and having an international mobility program, all ranked in the top ten. The other significant finding was that students (88%) are really passionate about working for a company that contributes positively to the world, with 90% saying it was important that that the work they do in future drives positive and sustainable change in society". The winner of this year's KPMG International Case Competition (KICC) was announced last month by John Veihmeyer, Chairman, KPMG International. "KICC is the largest business case competition of its kind" said Veihmeyer. "KPMG has been running this event for thirteen years and it's always incredibly rewarding to see these students grow in confidence as they analyze and present their solutions to a panel of KPMG Partners. It brings to life just how talented these individuals are." Commenting on the study, Abdullah Al Fozan, Chairman of KPMG Saudi Arabia, Middle East and South Asia, said, "Companies should retain qualified employees, especially loyal ones. They have to create career development opportunities and ensure the work environment is challenging enough to help employees further their experience. KPMG offers real opportunities to ambitious youth." — SG
