Online talent hub Commtract expands to meet global workforce

Paige Murphy
By Paige Murphy | 10 August 2020
 

Australian communications and marketing talent hub Commtract has expanded its marketing, advertising and digital offering in response to a growing number of CEOs outsourcing to ‘gig-workers’ amid COVID-19. 

Commtract, which launched in 2016, has more than 4,000 communications experts on its platform and has placed over 800 roles.

As employers across companies and agencies downsize amid the pandemic the demand for contract talent in creative, PR, marketing and digital is rising.

The contingent workforce is expanding too, and is expected to reach 40% of the global workforce by 2025.

Commtract has witnessed this shift with a 50% rise in freelancers joining the platform since the outbreak.

Commtract executive director Vanessa Liell says COVID-19 has fundamentally changed the way we work.

“Research suggests the vast majority of Australians want to continue working from home post-COVID, and businesses that were forced into adopting more flexible workforce solutions, are now discovering that it’s working for them too,” Liell says.

“The marketing, communications and creative industries are rapidly shifting to a contract and project model. COVID-19 has accelerated a shift that was already happening as companies seek the best talent on-demand."

The platform has also appointed Kate Russell to lead business development.

Russell has 12 years’ experience, most recently leading community and strategic sales for global technical athletic apparel brand Lululemon.

“Kate’s appointment brings significant brand, marketing and sales skills to Commtract to drive the growing demand from both employers and talent for fast placement of specialist skills," Liell says.

"We are delighted to welcome Kate who possesses an enviable track record in driving innovation and outstanding customer service to build world-class brands."

This follows the appointment of marketing industry and PR leaders Andrew Baxter as chair and Vanessa Liell as executive director.

Commtract CEO Luke Achterstraat will leave the business after four years of strong and successful growth. 

“The founding team, including Luke, has grown Australia’s go-to marketplace for talent into a proven platform that can meet the shifting patterns of client demands," Liell says.

"The platform is tried, tested and ready to scale as the Australian market transitions to project and contract work during the recession. It’s an outstanding Australian achievement with significant potential."

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