The analysis of regional population and human resources is given, as well as brief review of human resources utilization within the region. The authors consider official documents, elaborated by the Saint-Petersburg government in order to optimize local workforce development and utilization, and suggest ways to raise employment in the economic sphere by means of recruiting those older than the employable age but still retaining working capacity. Economic and social effects of recruiting workforce elder, than employable age, is evaluated. Among positive effects the following can be emphasized: increased portion of workers possessing extensive life and professional experience, well-developed intellectual and adaptive abilities, as well as ability to couching and mentoring, thus enhancing overall workforce professionalism.