Recruitment specialist SThree (LON:STHR) said its perofits rose in the third quarter thanks to strong demand in the energy and biotech sectors.
In the three month period to August 26, which is the third quarter of the group's fiscal year, gross profits across the group climbed six percent from the same period of 2011 to £51.3 million.
Profits in the permanent placement segment rose two percent to £25.6 million, while profits at the contract division climbed 10 percent to £25.6 million.
Profits in the UK and Ireland declined six percent to £17.7 million, which was more than offset by a 13 percent surge in profits to £33.6 million at the group’s international business.
“The group has traded satisfactorily in the third quarter, given the difficult macro economic backdrop,” said chief executive of SThree Russell Clements.
“Once again we performed robustly in terms of the value of the business written up, both in terms of average permanent fees and contract day rates.
“Our balance sheet remains strong, and we are a cash generative, debt-free business.
“This strength allows us to continue to make selective investments for the future whilst remaining committed to maintaining our strong track record in terms of our dividend.”
Shares in SThree rose 2.5 percent to 277.75 pence by 10:10am, valuing the group at nearly £336 million.