This report explores labour market trends across the South of England in 2025, led by 8.5% growth in marketing roles and strong hiring in retail, consumer goods, and engineering. It highlights how leading employers such as Balfour Beatty and the University of Oxford are driving regional expansion through investment in infrastructure and innovation.
Professional vacancies in London are set to grow by 6% in 2025, reinforcing the capital’s role as the UK’s employment hub. IT, banking, and sales are the main drivers of demand, while the technology and consumer goods sectors see the fastest growth. Hiring strategies remain mixed, with firms like Capgemini and J.P. Morgan expanding, while others scale back.
Professional vacancies in the North East are set to rise by 9.2% in 2025, driven by growth in construction, engineering, and public sector hiring, as the region rebalances away from tech and finance.
Professional job vacancies in the South East are outpacing national trends in mid-2025, with strong growth driven by improved economic conditions and targeted investment.
The symbiotic relationship between London and the South East has only strengthened in recent years, as the region has become a leading global hub for the high-tech industry. However, looking at this year so far, the region has experienced a slump in jobs and recruitment, especially compared to the peak of the post-pandemic period.
