A recent report by the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce sheds light on the top job vacancies in the region, providing valuable insights into the local labour market.
According to the report, Teaching Assistant emerged as the most in-demand job role across Greater Manchester, ranking first or second in eight out of ten boroughs. General Nurse and Social Care Worker also featured prominently in the top five most sought-after roles in seven boroughs, highlighting the demand for healthcare professionals.
While Teaching Assistant dominated in most areas, Bolton saw a surge in demand for Accountants, showcasing variations in job preferences across different boroughs. Manchester stood out with Software Developer as the most sought-after role, reflecting the city’s emphasis on digital expertise.
Local Skills Improvement Plan
The report is part of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce’s efforts under the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), commissioned by the Department for Education. It aims to analyse labour market trends, skills gaps, and training needs to guide recommendations for colleges and training providers.
One focus area of the report is apprenticeships, particularly in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and digital sectors. It identifies areas such as retrofitting and steel trades where apprenticeship programmes need enhancement to meet industry demands.
Addressing Skills Challenges
Chris Fletcher, Policy Director at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, emphasised the importance of aligning training with local skills demands. He highlighted challenges faced by employers, including a lack of awareness among young people about career options and shortages in people management and leadership skills.
The report serves as a guide for colleges and training providers to tailor their offerings to meet industry needs, ensuring a skilled workforce to fill vacancies effectively.
Looking Ahead
The report also offers sector-specific analyses and outlines how LSIP data is being utilised to enhance training provision. Employers struggling to find suitable skills are encouraged to engage with the Chamber to address workforce challenges.
Access the full report here to delve deeper into the insights shaping Greater Manchester’s workforce dynamics. For more details on the Greater Manchester Local Skills Improvement Plan, visit here.
