Hiring across highly skilled professional services is rebounding at pace across Manchester, with the number of new roles added between March and April exceeding growth rates recorded in London.

That’s according to recruitment agency and business consulting firm Robert Half.

The firm’s latest proprietary job posting database reveals a 21% increase in the number of professional roles added month-on-month in April, 4 points ahead of London.

“The figures reflect the increasing role regional cities are playing in the UK’s post-uncertainty hiring recovery and signal renewed confidence among employers in the North West,” said Robert Half.

“Among the roles currently in demand, key disciplines include business intelligence & data analysis, compliance, digital transformation, software development & testing, office support, marketing and PR, and human resources.

“Manchester’s rapid growth reflects both its rising reputation as a hub for professional and technical talent and efforts to build capability in areas that actively shape its economic future to support long-term development.

“As the world of work continues to evolve at pace, many businesses are prioritising hires that deliver immediate value while also strengthening future capability.”

Catherine Henry, Branch Director Manchester at Robert Half, said: “Manchester’s hiring recovery is showing clear signs of renewed momentum and alongside the regional growth agenda, employers are becoming more confident about hiring again.

“We’re seeing businesses investing in specialised talent that creates real, lasting value: roles in technology, compliance and transformation that not only future proof organisations but open up rewarding career pathways for skilled professionals across the region.

“Manchester has always been a city of ambition and the pace of hiring right now reflects that.”