Public sector employers may need to work harder to retain their managers with just over eighty percent admitting to looking for work occasionally or regularly, according to a recent survey.

The research conducted by SmartSearch found that many managers are particularly looking for new challenges, a better work life balance or progression opportunities. Just over half want to work from home, whilst four in ten want flexible working.

As managers look for new work, more than half would consider contacting their prospective employer before applying, an approach that is said to be welcomed by the majority. However, the majority will use an organisation’s website to find out more before applying for new roles.

The daunting proespects of restructure, change in management or leadership could also drive people to look for new roles.

LinkedIn is by far the most social network when it comes to senior candidates’ job search – three quarters of respondents cited it as a prominent source of vacancies.