Experts face the complex challenge of how to manage large-scale disasters affecting settled areas as the global population grows from its current 7 billion to an estimated 9 billion people by 2050 -- according to U.N. data.

Extreme hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, floods and droughts have wreaked havoc and cost the world trillions of dollars.

Certain forward-looking companies are seeking to mitigate the impact of future events.

Global risk analysis firm RMS builds simulation models to quantify the risks of unexpected catastrophes. While IBM, the world's largest technology services company, has announced a new partnership with the University of Melbourne and National ICT Australia (NICTA) to create the Australia Disasters Management Platform.

“IBM is committed to bringing our expertise and experience, along with those of the University of Melbourne and NICTA, to this significant undertaking, which represents a smarter approach to disaster management,” said Glenn Wightwick, director of IBM Research - Australia.  

Both RMS and IBM are characterised by technological innovation, and both companies also have progressive award-winning hiring practices.

RMS was honoured with a UK CandEs Award in February for treating its job candidates so well, while IBM Australia has won almost a dozen Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace awards.

“To ensure we achieve our business goals and ensure our teams get the personal growth, career development and compensation they are looking for, we have an in-depth performance and development strategy where goals are mutually agreed,” RMS says.

RMS is currently advertising almost 100 jobs in six countries and IBM is seeking many professionals for current vacancies.                                     

IBM has a full gamut of retention and development strategies that involve yearly programs for all career stages including emerging leaders, women with executive potential and early career women, the company says.