Hands behind backHalf of middle managers are under "excessive" pressure because of the state of the economy, and worry most about job security, according to a new study.

A survey of more than 2,000 employees by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) found that middle managers were most likely to be looking for a new job after expressing dissatisfaction with their work-life balance.

Ben Willmott, head of public policy at the CIPD, said: "Middle managers are often caught in the middle between delivering strategic objectives and managing under-pressure line managers. They can also be first in line when organisations look to reduce head count."

He continued: "While middle management will undoubtedly bear its share of job losses in organisations needing to reduce head count, it is also important to remember the crucial role these managers play in managing change, translating the objectives of senior managers into actions, and motivating others."

© 2012 Press Association