quote "Why would they choose to put fresh CPL holders in the SAAB with barely any cmd experience over well qualified pilots"
Here is the thing the cadets are not expected to make command decisions. This will be learned over time. Their role is to assist the Captain. They are expected to work as a team. Most work places are like this and eventually they will get a chance to prove their leadership skills.
As for REX not employing exisiting pilots with thousands of hours experience. It doesn't matter how good a pilot you are (even in the so called pilot shortage) if you can't demonstrate effective communication skills and the personality traits they are looking for in the interview you better stay out in the bush!
Hours are just a formality. They wan't to know what you are really like to be around!
I really thought professional pilots would know all about this? I guess they didn't teach you all this at flying school all those many years ago!
Modern Aviation isn't all about Stick & rudder flying and making solo command decisions.