ex-pat packages whilst here?

[Casper]

I know someone who is on a local hire, but is looking to move jobs in the new year (they are out here for 2 years, but isn't happy with the job she's in at the moment).  What are the chances that she could get an expat package (or just half a package as she's already over here!) do you think. She's a senior accountant for a brokers, but is looking to do something a bit more analytical.  Anybody any ideas or thoughts or advice/ contacts?

[jimbo]

Having been in the same sort of situation I think it probably is possible but your chances will be much greater if you are in a senior position with skills which are in demand.  In my own case I was over here on a local hire and after reading all the stuff written about expat deals felt I was missing out so really pushed hard to get a better deal with a lot of companies here (IT sector) -- however, none of them were interested.  Some companies said they had no policy to give expat deals whatsoever unless you were say transfering here from an an office in another country, some said they would offer a housing allowance/car etc IFF the current employer did so -- otherwise they wouldn't.  As your friend is perhaps more senior than me she may well have more luck.  The main thing I think is to not sound like you are desperate to move.