Winning the war for talent will require Europe to channel immigration to its economic advantage, according to Jeff Joerres, Manpower chairman and chief executive.

Speaking at a session of the World Economic Forum on Europe in Brussels yesterday, Joerres said: “Shifting demographics in Europe necessitate the right kind of immigration so companies can access the talent they need to increase innovation, growth and, ultimately, job creation.

“Well-managed immigration drives economies and businesses, while improved education and training will create a better match between the talent employers are looking for and the talent available.

“Given that talent is elusive - it is everywhere and nowhere - companies also need to look at the people they already have within their organisation and decide if they possess some of the requisite skills that can be developed to fill talent gaps in other areas of the organisation.”