Manchester - popular option for HR
The City is now firmly on the map, recognised as one of Europes premier business locations. Home to over 2,000 internationally owned companies, Manchester has a real mixture of industries and a large public sector presence, which is proving a popular option for HR professionals and jobseekers alike, as it is perceived to provide greater job security.HR opportunities
The commercial sector has started to recruit again and we are seeing a mix of financial service institutions, SMEs and manufacturers requiring employment specific professionals such as recruitment managers.This trend highlights an increased confidence in the sector as companies gear up for more external recruitment. Another change within the City is the boost in part-time recruitment, specifically part-time HR managers.
Currently there is steady demand for HR consultancy roles and those professionals with redundancy and redeployment experience continue to be in demand. There is also a shortage of reward specialists and equality & diversity officers in Manchester, meaning that those professionals with the right skill-set are likely to find new work with ease, even in the current market.
In addition, training and development recruitment has remained stable, as employers are currently looking to up-skill their employees in the hope of retaining the best talent. A candidate at an entry level position in Manchester can expect to earn around ??15-17k and an HR director can expect to earn around ??60k upwards.
Draw of Manchester for HR professionals
Companies now have high expectations when it comes to recruiting as they believe it's an employer-led market and therefore want the best talent available. Competition for the top talent has increased despite a large talent pool, so employers need to move quickly and still offer competitive packages at this level.
Interestingly, we are also seeing an increase in the number of applicants willing to relocate from outside of Manchester. This could become more common over the next few years as the City looks forward to the completion of one of Europes biggest building developments.
MediaCityUK will become a new hub designed specifically around the media industry and will transform the Salford Quays. The City itself is an exciting development which will include new office spaces, apartments, studios, a hotel, shops and restaurants and should create many opportunities for professionals within Manchester and the rest of the UK.
Professionals already living and working in Manchester tend to live within an hour or less of their work, making it easy for them to maintain a good work/life balance. Manchester is an exciting city as it has over 90 museums and art galleries, as well as great shopping, eating, drinking and nightlife. Within half an hours drive of the City you can be out in the stunning countryside in the surrounding towns and villages.