Outlook good for top execs

Despite the current economic slow-down, long-term demand for senior executives should be strong, according to Russell S. Reynolds Jr., chairman of Russell Reynold Associates Inc., a recruiting firm.

This conclusion is based on a recent survey by the Reynolds firm on the demand for senior managers -defined as executives earning more than $40,000 annually. The survey was directed toward 1,300 chief executives representing the 1,000 largest US industrial firms, together with the 50 largest retailers, transportation companies, utilities, banks, insurance companies, and diversified financial companies.

Chief execituves expect there will be the least demand for executives with specialties in staff areas, such as public affairs, legal, and planning and corporate development.