South Africa is experiencing a critical skills shortage across almost all sectors, according to Executive Placements, specifically in the IT, finance sectors and health.

The Department of Home Affairs Government Gazette has issued a list of critical skills needed in South Africa. Recruiters and HR specialists in South Africa are facing difficulties when filling vacancies that require critical skills and Executives.  This unfortunately leads to staff shortages, which directly impacts business growth and affects the country’s GDP.

Pretoria is the administrative capital of South Africa, located in the northern part of the country. The city has a population of over 1.5 million people and is one of the largest cities in the country. Some of the major industries in Pretoria are:

• Medical: Apart from the Government Hospitals, there are 20 Private Hospitals, offering excellent care and job opportunities.
• Education: Pretoria is home to top universities in South Africa like the University of South Africa, University of Pretoria, Tshwane University of Technology, Vista University and John Wesley College. If your passion is teaching and helping others make a real difference in the world, come and join some of the top education institutions in South Africa.
• Tourism: The city's numerous historical landmarks and cultural attractions make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. All around Pretoria, there are many things to do amongst the amazing game reserves and nature reserves, with luxury lodges, camping, fishing or even hiking, where you can enjoy the abundance of exciting wildlife. This industry provides employment opportunities in fields such as hospitality, customer service, and tour guide services.
• Finance: Pretoria has some of the finest financial institutions in Gauteng, providing a thriving field for those interested in finance jobs.
• Hospitality: The hospitality booms in Pretoria because of the vibrant diversity in culture.  There is something for everyone's particular tastes and enjoyments.

• Voortrekker Monument, the monument is a beautiful building of historical narratives, each area giving tales of the Afrikaner people’s Great Trek into South Africa.
• Pretoria National Botanical Garden, a 76-hectare garden with diverse indigenous flora and fauna.
• Union Buildings, architectural grandeur. South African government’s seat, with expansive gardens and a statue of Nelson Mandela, embodying the nation’s spirit. The guided tours give a walk through the corridors of history.
• Rietvlei Nature Reserve: is a wildlife reserve located within Pretoria. The reserve is a canvas painted with diverse wildlife, from rhinos and cheetahs to a plethora of bird species.
• Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve is a hidden gem in Pretoria. The reserve is almost 100 hectares, and is home to various indigenous game species and bird life. With its natural walking trails and the perennial Moreleta Spruit flowing through, it’s a perfect spot for nature lovers.
• Pretoria Zoo: is one of the eight largest zoos in the world, which includes an enchanting aquarium, a captivating reptile park, an aviary resounding with avian melodies, and thoughtfully designed primate enclosures.

What is the weather like?

The weather in Pretoria is great!  The climate in Pretoria is perfect for those who enjoy warm weather. The city experiences an average of 300 days of sunshine per year.  The winters are mild, with only a few sprinkles of snow every few years. 

In winter the temperature drops on average to 11.5 °C (53 °F). However, on the coldest nights it can drop to a low of 3.4 °C (38.1 °F). In the summer, on the warmest days, the temperature generally reaches around 36 °C (97 °F). With this great weather, the plentiful green outdoors is a great place to enjoy your time.

How is the Cost of Living?
The cost of living in Pretoria is very affordable and quite low in comparison to Johannesburg and Cape Town and other countries. You can find affordable housing and food options throughout the city and there are many inexpensive ways to entertain yourself. Transport costs are also relatively low, making it easy to get around the city.

How is the Quality of Life?

South Africa is a country with a lot to offer. From the food and wine to the beautiful scenery and friendly people. There are many parks and green spaces to enjoy for relaxation or for sport. Pretoria has excellent schools, universities, and hospitals. The city also has a lower crime rate than other areas of South Africa, making it a safer place to live.

The people in Pretoria are friendly and welcoming, which makes it easy to meet new people and make friends.  With a large ex-pat community, there is never a shortage of new people to meet.

What Kind of People Live in Pretoria?

Pretoria is a culturally diverse city, with a large population of people of all colours and from all backgrounds, cultures and languages. Many different religious groups are represented in the city, making it a tolerant and open place to live.

How is the Nightlife and Social Events?

Whether you’re looking for a laid-back evening with friends or a night out on the town there is something for everyone. Explore the city’s history and culture or enjoy its nightlife and restaurants.  When looking for things to do, the nearby neighboring city of Johannesburg also has a very vibrant life, giving you 2 for one! There are a variety of bars and clubs to suit every taste, from dance clubs to sports bars or hipster hangouts. And if you’re looking for something a little different, there are also plenty of rooftop bars and lounges with stunning views of the cityscape.

There is no shortage of live entertainment. There are lots of differing live music venues that feature local and international acts, as well as comedy clubs and theaters offering a wide range of performances.

What are the Shopping and Dining Options?

There are plenty of shopping malls, markets, and restaurants to choose from. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you'll find what you're looking for in Pretoria.  Eating out is very affordable and the quality of food is incredible.  Just watch your waistline, so be ready to jump on a bike or take a run through the green countryside to work off the great food.

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Valhalla, known as a thriving suburb, is a highly sought after area. This area is particularly appealing due to its affordability. Conveniently located between Pretoria and Johannesburg, Valhalla boasts easy access to major highways. The neighborhood also offers a wide range of amenities including hospitals, churches, schools, and shopping centres. Residents can enjoy a tranquil and serene lifestyle while still having access to all the necessary city-like infrastructure.

Midstream Estate is a highly desirable residential area, providing residents with a secure village lifestyle in the heart of Gauteng. With 6282 properties, Midstream offers a range of housing options. In addition to the two shopping centres, there are also schools and restaurants within the estate. Conveniently located near the N1, N14, and R21 highways, residents have easy access to transportation hubs such as OR Tambo International and Gautrain stations.

Located near the heart of the city, Faerie Glen boasts an array of amenities and impeccable infrastructure. While exuding a suburban atmosphere, this bustling area is also surrounded by picturesque trees, parks and nature reserves. Its convenient location near major travel routes such as the N1 and N4 makes for easy commuting, while also providing access to top-notch schools, renowned dining options and shopping complexes. Faerie Glen is also in close proximity to popular malls and esteemed medical institutes.

Menlo Park, an affluent eastern suburb, has experienced significant growth in recent years. This includes a variety of new residential and commercial developments. This thriving community boasts a charming suburban culture, complete with top-rated schools, an array of restaurants and cafes, and luxurious modern homes. For those seeking to upgrade their lifestyle in a family-friendly environment, Menlo Park may be the perfect choice.

Montana Park boasts a prime location and a diverse range of housing options, including charming freehold homes, luxurious sectional title units, and secure estate living. The area also offers ample opportunities for upgrading with an array of townhouses and apartments in secure complexes.

How to Find a Job in Pretoria

Despite being smaller than Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town, Pretoria's economy still attracts recruiters and companies who use Executive Placements job portal to find candidates. In fact, they may even bring in candidates from other parts of the country or from abroad for niche skills. Many newcomers to Pretoria are initially let down by its smaller size, but it quickly wins your heart and becomes a beloved city that is difficult to leave.

How can I get a job in Pretoria?

One of the best ways to get a job in Pretoria is to register your CV on the Executive Placements job portal. This Portal is used by 100s of recruiters in Pretoria to source candidates for jobs in Pretoria.

Are Pretoria Salaries good compared to the rest of the country?

According to the analysis that we have done on the Executive Placements database, salaries are the highest a close second to Johannesburg. The exact difference is dependent upon the job and the industry that one works in.

What are the most in demand skills in Pretoria?

Banking, I.T. and Tourism are large industries in Pretoria so financial programming skills and hospitality jobs are in demand. A number of international corporations like Acer, Alcatel and BMW are based in Pretoria.