The mission behind Greeces’ workforce initiative.
ReBrain Greece is a national initiative designed by the Greek Ministry of Labor and Social Security to reverse the brain drain by encouraging skilled Greek professionals abroad to return. By offering incentives, career opportunities, and a digital platform connecting talent with businesses, it aims to modernise the labour market and support Greece’s transition to a knowledge-driven economy.
1. Objectives
Addressing the long-standing challenge of brain drain, this flagship initiative aims to bring back thousands of skilled Greek professionals who left the country in search of better opportunities. By fostering a robust ecosystem supported by government incentives, private sector collaboration, and innovative tools, it encourages talent to return and actively contribute to Greece’s evolving economy. ReBrain Greece targets critical industries such as technology, healthcare, and engineering, with a focus on bridging talent gaps and building a knowledge-driven economic landscape.
2. The Digital Platform
At the heart of ReBrain Greece is its digital platform (platform.rebraingreece.gr), which serves as a comprehensive hub for connecting talent with opportunity. Greek businesses can easily list job openings tailored to high-skill professions, while returning professionals can upload their CVs, explore tailored roles, and engage directly with potential employers. The platform highlights emerging sectors such as renewable energy, IT, and finance, making it a critical tool for modernising Greece’s labour market.
3. Incentives for Professionals
To make the idea of returning to Greece more appealing, ReBrain Greece offers several targeted incentives. These include tax reductions for a specified period, significantly easing the financial burden of relocation. Professionals are also eligible for relocation assistance to help with moving costs and settling back into life in Greece. Beyond monetary benefits, the initiative connects individuals with innovative Greek firms and startups, providing opportunities to grow their careers in a dynamic, forward-thinking environment.
4. Support for Businesses
ReBrain Greece is not just about helping individuals; it’s equally focused on empowering businesses to thrive. The program provides Greek companies with access to a pool of highly skilled professionals who bring international experience and expertise. Additionally, businesses hiring through the platform may benefit from government subsidies and financial incentives, further strengthening their ability to innovate and expand. This collaboration between public and private sectors is key to creating a sustainable talent ecosystem in Greece.
5. Target Audience
The initiative primarily targets Greek professionals who have left the country in search of better career opportunities. It focuses on individuals with expertise in high-demand fields such as technology, engineering, finance, and healthcare. By encouraging these professionals to return, ReBrain Greece addresses a dual objective: offering them fulfilling careers in their homeland while enabling Greece to leverage their global expertise to foster innovation and competitiveness.
6. Economic and Social Impact
ReBrain Greece aims to make a substantial impact on both the economy and society. By reversing the exodus of more than 450.000 Greeks who left during the economic crisis, the initiative reintegrates valuable intellectual capital into the local economy. These returning professionals not only boost innovation but also strengthen community ties, fostering a renewed sense of national pride and unity. Their contributions are pivotal to Greece’s transition into a knowledge-based economy.
7. Participating Enterpirses
Several prominent Greek enterprises are actively participating in the Rebrain Greece program, demonstrating their commitment to attracting top talent back to the country. Companies such as OTE, Ernst & Young, Alpha Bank, PPC, Hellenic Petroleum, Pfizer, and METLEN (Mytilineos) are among those involved. These high profile organizations represent a wide range of industries, including technology, finance, energy, and healthcare, offering skilled professionals diverse opportunities to advance their careers while contributing to Greece’s economic revitalization.
8. Broader Vision
The program represents more than just a policy to reverse brain drain; it is a visionary program that seeks to redefine the Greek labour market. By aligning the needs of businesses, professionals, and the government, it aims to create a sustainable system for talent growth and retention. The broader vision of ReBrain Greece is to position Greece as a competitive destination for skilled professionals, both domestically and internationally, ensuring long-term economic growth and innovation.
A New Era for Skilled Professionals and Innovation
ReBrain Greece represents more than just an initiative; it is a call to action for Greek professionals worldwide to reconnect with their roots and contribute to the nation’s progress. By bridging talent with opportunity, fostering innovation, and addressing critical challenges, it paves the way for a brighter, knowledge-driven future. As the program continues to grow, it reaffirms the potential of collective effort in revitalising Greece’s economy and strengthening its global presence.
ReBrain Greece visits Amsterdam in November 2024!
ReBrain Greece is hosting an event in Amsterdam on November 30, 2024, from 10:30 to 19:30 at the Hilton Amsterdam, Apollolaan 138. This gathering offers Greek professionals living abroad a unique opportunity to explore promising job prospects in Greece. Attendees will have the chance to engage in one-on-one meetings with representatives from leading companies, facilitating direct connections with potential employers. The event’s agenda includes speeches, business presentations, a networking lunch, and dedicated time for meetings and interviews.