Blog

Explore how Business Support roles have evolved, why AI adoption is essential, and the modern skills employers need to hire top Business Support talent.

Across the UK, accountancy firms are facing one of the most competitive hiring environments in recent memory. Demand for skilled finance professionals is at an all-time high but supply simply isn’t keeping up.

From Plymouth Freeport to Appledore Shipyard, the South West is driving the UK’s marine engineering future. Dan Martin explores the innovation, sustainability and skills shaping this vital regional sector.

Navantia UK’s investment at Appledore Shipyard marks a new era for North Devon’s maritime industry. The historic yard is being transformed into a modern manufacturing hub, supporting the UK’s Fleet Solid Support programme and creating skilled jobs for the region. This development signals renewed confidence in the South West’s industrial future combining heritage, innovation, and sustainable economic growth.

The accounting world is transforming as professionals embrace the fractional finance model — offering expert financial leadership on demand. This forward-thinking approach allows businesses to access senior-level finance expertise flexibly and cost-effectively, while accountants gain freedom, variety, and balance. From fractional CFOs to part-time Financial Controllers, this new model is redefining careers and reshaping how firms operate in a digital, flexible economy.

From Hinkley Point C to the new Agratas Gigafactory and the Celtic Sea, the South West is shaping the UK’s engineering future. Dan Martin explores the innovation, investment and infrastructure transforming the region.

Discover how the Gravity Smart Campus near Bridgwater is transforming Somerset’s economy. From its wartime past to a £4 billion gigafactory investment

The accountancy profession is evolving fast. Discover how digital transformation, AI, and automation are reshaping accountants’ roles—from compliance experts to strategic business partners. Learn how firms can embrace technology, develop future-ready skills, and redefine their value in a connected, data-driven world.

AI is reshaping the workplace, not by replacing people, but by changing how we work, the skills we need, and the opportunities we create. At our recent Talking HR event, leaders explored how responsible AI use can empower HR teams to work smarter, lead change, and build more inclusive, sustainable organisations

The South West is emerging as a key driver of the UK’s future economy, creating thousands of jobs built on human skills. From Tata’s £4bn Agratas Gigafactory in Bridgwater to Plymouth’s defence innovation and the Plymouth & South Devon Freeport, major investments are unlocking opportunities in engineering, manufacturing, cyber, sustainability, and more. This growth proves the future of work isn’t just about automation, it’s about people. For talent, it offers future-proof careers; for employers, a chance to invest in skills and secure the workforce that will drive the region forward.

The DBS Update Service is a simple, low-cost subscription that keeps your DBS certificate current and accessible online. For just £16 a year (free for volunteers), it saves time, reduces repeat checks, and helps employers make quicker recruitment decisions. Whether you work in healthcare, education, social care, or volunteer roles, joining ensures you stay job-ready while protecting organisations with up-to-date safeguarding information.

July 2025 Jobs Market: What South West Employers & Candidates Need to Know Based on the latest KPMG and REC, UK Report on Jobs Hiring Activity Slows But Opportunities Are There The July 2025 Jobs Report highlights a challenging but opportunity-filled market for South West businesses and job seekers.