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🏙️ How to Find a Job in Leeds

Leeds is one of the UK’s most vibrant cities, boasting a thriving job market across diverse industries such as finance, healthcare, technology, education, retail, and creative arts. The city has the highest ratio of private to public sector jobs of all the Core Cities in the UK, and has the most diverse economy of all of the UK's key employment centres.

Whether you’re a fresh graduate or an experienced professional, this guide will help you navigate the job search process in Leeds.

On this page:

Key Employment Sectors

  • 🎨 Creative and Media – Leeds has a thriving creative sector, with agencies and companies like Channel 4 and xDesign.
  • 🎓 Education – Schools and universities in Leeds frequently hire teachers, teaching assistants, and administrative staff. The University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett are major employers.
  • 🏦 Financial and Professional Services – Leeds is a major hub for banking, insurance, legal and financial services. Top employers include Lloyds Banking Group, KPMG, and PwC.
  • 🏥 Health and Social Care – With several hospitals, care homes, and medical facilities, the healthcare sector offers a large variety of roles. The Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust is one of the largest employers in the city.
  • 🏨 Hospitality and Retail – Leeds is a major retail and hospitality hub in the North of England. Hotels, bars, restaurants, and high street stores are always looking for staff.
  • 💻 Technology and Digital – Tech companies like Sky and Asda Digital are prominent in Leeds, along with a growing startup scene.

Before You Begin

  • Assess Your Eligibility: Ensure you have the right to work in the UK. If you're not a UK citizen, verify your visa or work permit status. The New to Leeds website is a good resource and provides more information on the documents that you would need in order to work.

  • Language Proficiency: While roles in Leeds require proficiency in English, certain positions, especially in multinational companies or specific communities, may value additional language skills. If you feel that you need to brush up on your English ability, you can find English classes on the English in Yorkshire and Humber website.

Where to Get Job Search Support

🏛️ Community Hubs

Leeds City Council operates 26 Community Hubs across the city. Staff at these hubs can help you with job applications and developing your digital skills. The Hubs also offer free WiFi and computer access. You can visit your nearest Hub without an appointment. Find your closest Hub at the Leeds Community Hubs website.

🏢 Jobcentre Plus

Jobcentre Plus can help you search for work, access free training, and check eligibility for financial support while job hunting. Find your nearest Jobcentre Plus on the GOV.UK website.

🔍 Leeds Employment Hub

The Employment Hub offers support in finding jobs, apprenticeships, and training opportunities. Visit the Inclusive Growth Leeds website to find out more.

Job Websites and Recruitment Agencies

Here are some useful job websites where you can find vacancies in Leeds:

You can also check job openings directly on large Leeds employers’ websites:

🏢 Recruitment Agencies

Recruitment agencies help match job seekers with available vacancies. They can also provide advice on CVs and interview preparation. Most agencies will invite you for an initial interview to discuss your skills and job preferences. You should never have to pay for their services – employers cover the cost. These are some of the main agencies to consider:

🛒 Supermarkets Hiring in Leeds

If you're looking for work in retail or customer service, check job listings for supermarkets in Leeds:

🔹 Internships and Apprenticeships

Websites like Prospects and RateMyPlacement can help students find internships and placements in Leeds.

Support for Starting Your Own Business

If you're interested in starting your own business, the Business and IP Centre Leeds (run by Leeds City Council) offers free advice and support. This service helps new entrepreneurs with business planning, intellectual property guidance, and networking opportunities. You can find more information at Business and IP Centre Leeds.

Networking Opportunities

Leeds has a thriving professional community, and networking is key to finding hidden job opportunities. The following are some of the networking opportunities available:

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