North West employers look to expand with jobs up 8%, but skills shortages may hold them back

The latest Robert Walters Manchester Jobs Index, which tracks the number of jobs available and jobseeking professionals in the North West month-by-month, has revealed that the number of jobs increased by 8% year-on-year, as businesses in the region look to expand.

However, employers may struggle to source the talent needed to sustain this growth, with the number of jobseeking professionals having fallen by 21% over the same period.

Chris Poole, Managing Director, Robert Walters Manchester, comments: “The figures from the first quarter reflect an attitude of measured confidence among businesses in the North West. Despite some uncertainty in light of the upcoming EU referendum, employers in the region are still looking to expand.”

“A buoyant local economy and significant foreign investment has left businesses in the North West keen to expand.”

“Lower operating costs compared to the capital and a growing international profile have made the region attractive for startups as well as multinational firms looking to establish a UK presence.”

While employers are keen to expand, a lack of suitable candidates leaves business facing potential skills shortages.

Compared to the first quarter of 2015, the number of professionals seeking new jobs has fallen by 21%.

Chris Poole continues: “Despite the North West having a highly skilled local workforce employers are facing the possibility of struggling to recruit the professionals they need in sufficient numbers.”

“This has created a climate that favours jobseekers, with professionals in high-demand fields such as IT and procurement being particularly sought after.”

“As competition for these professionals increases, employers will have to examine what they can offer if they want to secure top talent.”

“While competitive salaries and benefits are still an important factor, professionals are increasingly coming to prioritise the potential for career progression when choosing a new role. Employers who can offer this are best placed to attract and retain the best calibre professionals.”