Birmingham is the second largest city in the UK and is set against a backdrop of rural landscapes.
Within the city, the HR sector is stable and we are seeing a specific requirement for interims, particularly within the public sector, as large organisations such as the NHS continue to recruit. Some organisations are reluctant to commit to long-term hires due to the lack of certainty in the market. This is good news for interim professionals and people looking to enhance their CVs with project experience.
Reward, benefits and compensation specialists who focus on remuneration packages are in demand as they are able to cut costs as well as help to retain top talent. Redundancy specialists and TUPE experts are also sought, particularly on an interim basis. TUPE specialists will focus on change management, restructuring and re-deployment, and can typically earn around £40,000 in Birmingham – ideally, they will have a CIPD qualification and significant relevant experience.
Blue-chip companies within the city are recruiting senior talent management roles, such as heads of talent, earning anything between £50,000 and £70,000. Recruitment in this area is the result of companies forward planning and wanting to retain their top talent for the upturn. In addition, smaller firms are recruiting HR managers and advisers. Other key requirements in Birmingham include an increased demand for entry-level trainers, an introduction of more bespoke roles and a boost in recruitment within rural areas.
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Birmingham boasts all the facilities and amenities that you would expect from such a large city. The countryside and canals provide a contrast to the city, and its central location means that it is within easy commuting distance of the rest of the country. Birmingham can also lay claim to holding the most conferences, exhibitions and events outside London, at venues such as the International Convention Centre and the National Exhibition Centre.
Outside work, there’s plenty to offer. For those of a cultural disposition, there’s the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and the Birmingham Royal Ballet. The city also boasts some first-class museums, while the Jewellery Quarter houses Europe’s largest school of jewellery. Galleries include the UK’s second oldest independent art gallery, the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists. Sports fans are equally well catered for, with top class football, tennis and, in particular, cricket on show.
