Your Path to a Thriving Career: Top Growth Industries in Manchester

Manchester has always been a vibrant city, but in recent years, it has truly excelled. Research indicates that Manchester is projected to outpace the UK's economic growth rate between 2024 and 2027, driven by a variety of flourishing industries.

In this blog, we’ll explore the sectors experiencing significant growth, providing insights into the exciting career opportunities that await in this dynamic city.

From business and finance to healthcare, manufacturing, and the creative and digital sectors, Manchester offers a diverse and thriving job market for ambitious professionals.

Join us as we uncover the booming industries shaping Manchester's prosperous future.

Economic growth in Manchester

Between 2010 and 2020, Manchester's economy saw a remarkable 39% growth, with job creation rates doubling those of the broader northern region. Home to over 2.8 million people, Manchester’s economy surpasses that of Wales or Northern Ireland, making it a highly competitive business location. With ten boroughs Greater Manchester is the largest city region economy outside of London and between 2010 and 2020, it saw remarkable growth of 39%, with job creation rates doubling those of the broader northern region.

For graduates, this thriving landscape offers a wealth of career opportunities, making it an exciting era to embark on a professional journey in Manchester's booming industries.

Business, finance and professional services

One of the largest sectors in Greater Manchester currently employing around 280,000 people and accounting for around 20% of the local economy.

Between now and 2030, it’s predicted that therll be further growth in the sector, and more jobs will be produced, with an additional number of replacement demand vacancies from the retiring workforce. GM has plans to build on current strengths in legal and accounting, insurance and business services over the coming years.

Manufacturing

Although this sector has shrunk significantly since 2005, in the years up to 2025, new jobs in the industry have been created, due to both industry growth and replacement demand from its ageing workforce.

Currently, 115,000 people work in the manufacturing industry in Manchester.

Skills in advanced manufacturing, science and engineering will be crucial to employers with 25% of its workforce needing to be qualified at Level 4 and above.

Health and Care

GM is looking to build on key strengths in life sciences, medical technology/devices and its health services. The sector currently employs around 174,111 people and has grown by 6.9% in the past ten years. Primary Care services are looking to innovate by incorporating more allied health professionals from secondary care to combat the current shortage on GP’s.

If you want to enter the healthcare industry, read out blog for a full guide on health and social care courses.

Creative & Digital

GM is looking to build on key strengths in this sector such as ecommerce, cyber security, media and data analytics.

This sector is vast and includes Animation, Publishing, Visual Effects, Photo Imaging, Advertising & Marketing, Television and Gaming. The sector currently employs around 64,477 people and is expected to increase by a further 5,047 by 2025.

Start your career journey at TMC

Start your career journey at TMC, where we offer the right courses tailored to set you on the path to success in Manchester's thriving job market. Our exceptional tutors provide expert guidance and personalised career advice to help you achieve your goals.

Explore our full range of subject areas here.

If you're already a student, connect with one of our dedicated career advisors to explore your opportunities and take the next step in your professional journey. Apply to TMC today and unlock your potential in one of the UK's most dynamic cities.