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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.

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.

In an ever-evolving employment landscape, “company culture” has become a key topic for many businesses across the region. Great culture helps retain great talent, but how do you nurture it, and what are the pitfalls of a toxic culture? As organisations navigate everything from hybrid working to AI integration and generational workforce shifts, company culture has emerged as a critical topic for HR professionals, leaders, and employees alike. At our latest Talking HR event, we brought together a panel of experts to discuss Does Company Culture Matter? and explore what culture really means in today’s workplace.

March certainly bought new challenges and opportunities in the hiring market, and with the first quarter completed, usually we can being to form a view of the recruitment landscape but my gut is that this year will be different.

Lack of skills shortage planning is a threat to businesses across the country, with 71% saying they don’t have a plan for growing skills (Open University). With 20% of the UK workforce under skilled for their jobs by 2030, just five years’ time, this is a growing problem that businesses need to address to protect themselves long term.

We are seeing positive signs in the employment market with available roles in the region up by 3% on January, which was up 67% on December. However this is down 19% on February last year, a sure sign that upcoming changes to the minimum wage and national insurance are having an impact.

Those who hold a CIPD qualification can also earn up to 12% more than those without, according to Lightcast. HR roles requesting CIPD Qualifications pay on average £4,400 more than without. The CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) qualifications in 2025 will remain highly respected in the HR and people management field, with each level corresponding to specific career stages and responsibilities.

As we expected, this month we have seen a rebound from the tighter December market with a 67% increase on regional role availability, a sign the employment market is heading for a better start to the year.

December can always prove a tighter employment market, with many celebrating the season with family and friends, and the search for a new role and new team members taking a back seat.

As we approach 2025, the hiring landscape is poised for significant changes. From the increasing use of AI to shifts in economic conditions, the Employment Rights Bill and workplace dynamics, it will be interesting to see what the year ahead brings.

November was an interesting month in the employment market, following the announcement of the budget last month.