There is an urgent need to improve the recruitment procedures for teaching positions at universities. There have been numerous cases in which academics have failed to hire outstanding young researchers and talented lecturers. For example, a research fellow from Germany complained that his applications for lecturing jobs were rejected despite his impressive research and publication record. Another scholar from Spain, who had received the Excellence in Teaching Award, also failed to get a job. A number of similar complaints have forced the Department of Education to introduce a policy which requires universities to staff the relevant selection committees with representatives from independent human resources consultancies. This measure will improve recruitment procedures.