South East: Legal vacancies rise 32% year-on-year

Demand for permanent legal professionals in the South East increased by 32% year-on-year to March 2018, according to research from the Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo).

The data, provided by recruitment software company Innovantage, also revealed vacancies within the IT sector increased by 3% over the same period.

Commenting on the data, Rina Durban, membership relations manager at APSCo said: “After several months of positivity, the South East is seeing continued success, with demand for permanent professionals rising. Looking at the legal and technology sectors in particular, there is promising growth for the region.”

“The South East is an increasingly attractive option for legal firms, considering the region’s proximity to the City. News that transatlantic law firm Womble Bond Dickinson recently held International Week at their Southampton office means the South East can expand its international reach, giving companies and staff across the Atlantic the chance to gather and discuss upcoming technology and opportunities in the sector.”

“In addition, Reading’s legal market is positively growing, with several international law firms such as Shoosmiths LLP, Blandy & Blandy LLP and Boyes Turner having a strong presence in the region. Equally, Reading’s IT sector is expanding into a vibrant technology hub with over 45,000 tech jobs and annual digital revenues of £12 billion. PwC are also investing in their Reading office to demonstrate their confidence in the region’s future and this is a great sign for the coming months.”