Professional services ‘to add 54,000 Manchester jobs’

BUSINESS and professional service activities are expected to be the largest contributors to employment growth in Greater Manchester over the next decade, creating 54,000 jobs.

That’s according to analysis from think tank New Economy which has assessed the findings of the 2013 Greater Manchester Forecasting Model.

The results also suggest an increasing number of roles will be created at either the higher or lower ends of the skills ladder up to 2023, with fewer at intermediate levels.

Dr Alexander Roy, head of research at New Economy, said: “With the renewed vigour that January brings, now is a good time to look closely at the regional economy and the long-term trends that it faces. The 2013 Greater Manchester Forecasting Model suggests that around 100,000 jobs will be created from 2013 to 2023 with professional and business services leading the way and contributing about half of those jobs.

“Another significant finding – the forecast squeeze in jobs at the intermediate level – has implications on the type of job opportunities that will be available in Greater Manchester through to 2013, and it is now up to city leaders and policymakers to ensure we plan for a workforce that has the right skill set and qualifications to access these new jobs.”

New Economy said the number of people claiming Jobseekers’ Allowance in the city fell for the ninth consecutive month in November by 5% to 65,400.