In a world that is constantly evolving, staying ahead of the curve is vital for businesses and individuals alike. For recruitment specialists like us here at Hello Recruitment, understanding the projected changes in employment is not just a task but a commitment to shaping the future workforce. As we step into the second half of the 21st century, it’s essential to dive into the data and explore what the future holds for employment in the North East.

The Numbers Speak: Projections for the next 15 years

The labour market is a complex web of demand and supply, influenced by various factors like technological advancements, economic trends, and demographic shifts. In 2023, labour market and skills projections painted a fascinating picture for the North East. By 2035, the region is expected to have a net employment requirement of approximately half a million jobs. This figure is the result of a net increase in employment by about 49,000, combined with the replacement demand of 451,000 positions.

Understanding Net Employment Requirement

To grasp the significance of these numbers, let’s break them down. Net employment requirement refers to the total number of job openings required in an economy for its functionality. The net change arises from shifts in the economy’s structure, while replacement demand reflects the impact of workers leaving the labour market, primarily due to retirement.

Diverse Opportunities: Where Will the Jobs Be?

The North East’s employment landscape is poised for diversity. Over a third, precisely 36%, of the net employment requirement will be in non-marketed services. This category encompasses health, education, and public administration. About 28% will be in trade, accommodation, and transport, while 25% will be in business and other services, which include professional services, arts, recreation, and personal services.

Professionals in Demand

For job seekers and professionals seeking career advancement, here’s an exciting trend: approximately 42% of the net employment requirement in the North East will be in professional and associate professional occupations. These roles will be especially in demand in health or social care, as well as among science, research, engineering, and technology professionals. Additionally, occupations in administration, sales, and caring personal services will see a substantial net requirement.

Education Matters: Degrees and Beyond

Education is the key to the future. Over half, precisely 56%, of the net employment requirement in the North East will be in roles requiring a qualification at the degree level or higher. On the flip side, the net requirement in roles with very low or no qualification requirements is expected to decrease. This highlights the importance of continuous learning and upskilling to remain competitive in the job market.

Local-Level Projections: A Benchmark for Progress

These local-level projections are part of “The Skills Imperative 2035: Essential skills for tomorrow’s workforce” research program, funded by the Nuffield Foundation and led by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER). Each projection serves as a benchmark, outlining the implications of a local area maintaining the same patterns of employment change compared to the broader national and regional picture.

Key Predictions and Beyond

As we delve into the numbers, it’s essential to keep an eye on the key predictions. With an estimated 0.9% average annual growth rate (AAGR) in output, the North East is expected to need an additional 7,900 workers by 2027. This equates to an annual recruitment requirement of 1,580 positions, making the region a hub of opportunity. The Teesworks Freeport project, valued at £200 million, is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape.

Conclusion

In the North East, including in areas such as Hull and Middlesborough, the future of employment is dynamic and full of promise. For Hello Recruitment, these projections serve as a roadmap for recruitment specialists to guide job seekers and businesses towards a prosperous future.

As the employment landscape evolves, staying informed and adaptable will be key to unlocking the myriad opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we can shape a brighter future for the North East’s workforce.

Here at Hello Recruitment, we plan to remain at the forefront of this industry, especially in the engineering and construction sectors, so get in touch for any more information.

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Tom Simpson

Managing Director at Novum Personnel

Tom Simpson is a passionate entrepreneur and the driving force behind Novum Personnel. With a background in commercial law and retail, Tom’s journey into business has been guided by his socialist values and a focus on people's development over monetary gain.

Tom’s commitment to keeping things simple and focusing on the needs of both clients and candidates has been key to his success. He’s not afraid to pivot and adapt, moving into construction and engineering recruitment when the market demands it and later seeing an opening in education recruitment.

In his personal life, Tom is known for his directness and resilience, unafraid to challenge the status quo or stand up for his beliefs. With Tom, what you see is definitely what you get. His goal is not to amass wealth but to create a happy and motivated team and to revolutionise the way we approach work and recruitment.

Tom Simpson is a true champion of business success, putting people and their passions at the heart of everything he does. His story is a testament to the power of simplicity, adaptability, and a people-first approach in business.