Thanks for all the responses. They have been helpful.

Regarding the power of attorney - I do have someone I trust who is resident in Switzerland. My own concern is would the Swiss taxman not start asking him lots of questions about where this money is coming from and why he hasn't declared it on his self assessment? I don't want him getting into trouble on my behalf or paying higher rates of tax.
Of course, if money in = money out then he won't have gained anything but not sure if the taxman sees it the same way.

Perhaps the simplest way is to tell the employer to hold my salary for three months. Hopefully my contract will get renewed and then after 3 months 1 day - straight down to the permit office.

Thanks,

Peter