Proprietary job posting data from Robert Half is suggesting that hiring activity in Manchester is rebounding strongly after a marked slowdown at the start of the year.
The data reveals that despite an initial fall in the first quarter, when jobs dropped from 3,104 in January to 2,232 in March, vacancies showed a marked recovery in May (2,830). This highlights a clear ‘reset and rebuild’ phase, with March marking the turning point in employer demand.
This recovery is a sustained rebound rather than a one-off spike. The statistics show that vacancies increased by more than 21per cent between March and April, followed by an additional 4.6per cent rise in May. This consistent upward trajectory points to a more stable recovery than other regional hubs that have experienced demand fluctuations.
According to the data, Manchester continues to lead hiring outside London. The city’s 2,830 vacancies in May place it ahead of Birmingham at 1,671 and Glasgow at 1,527.
Following the slower start to the year, hiring has become more consistent, supported by demand across core business functions and transformation focused roles, particularly in data, technology and project delivery. While other regions continue to see more variable demand, Manchester’s stronger performance points to greater resilience in the local market, aligned with the city’s long-term growth trajectory.
“Manchester is emerging as one of the strongest regional performers in terms of hiring momentum,” commented Catherine Henry, Branch Director Manchester at Robert Half. “The data points to a shift towards a more stable and consistent pattern of growth, with vacancy levels rising steadily over consecutive months and employers demonstrating renewed confidence in workforce investment.
“This sustained demand reinforces Manchester’s position as a leading hub for professional talent outside London, supported by a diverse economy that continues to generate opportunities and attract employers across a range of sectors,” she adds. “As businesses continue to balance caution with growth, we are seeing a more targeted and strategic approach to job creation, with firms prioritising roles and skills that support operational resilience and long-term capability.”
Henry concludes: “While hiring conditions across the UK remain mixed, Manchester’s ability to generate consistent vacancy growth points to a robust economic recovery. If this trajectory continues, the city is well placed to remain the strongest regional labour market outside London in the months ahead.”
