Partner Article

North East firms aiming to deliver increased graduate opportunities

Over half of respondents with employees in the North East plan to expand their workforce this year, with the creation of permanent jobs outstripping temporary work, according to a survey conducted by the CBI and Accenture.

The CBI/Accenture Employment Trends Survey, covering 76 businesses that employ people in the North East, found that 55% expect their workforce to grow in number over the next year.

The survey found that:

• Job prospects for young people also have improved with many of these firms planning to recruit graduates and apprentices.
• 36% of respondents plan to increase their permanent posts and 34% temporary
• 51% expect to increase their apprenticeship intake and 44% will recruit higher numbers of graduates
• 69% anticipate having roles suitable for young people aged 16-24 who are seeking work.
• 43% of firms are planning a pay rise in line with the Retail Price Index (RPI).
• There has been a small increase in the proportion of companies expecting to pay above RPI when compared with last year’s survey – 12% in 2014 compared to 7% in 2013.
• Low level of skills (63%), closely followed by the burden of employment regulation (61%) are seen as the greatest workforce threats to UK competitiveness – respondents believe this will still be the case in five years’ time (54%).

Director of CBI North East, Dianne Sharp, said: “Firms in the North East are gearing up for a positive 2015 with over half planning to create jobs, most of which will be permanent.

“Young people should find more chances to get a foot on the career ladder this year, with many firms looking to boost their intake of graduates and apprentices.

“We want to see everyone enjoy the rewards of the recovery and the North East has a big role in driving the UK economy forward. Growth should work for everyone, and skills are the key route to ensuring that this happens through improved productivity and pay.”

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