The South West Jobs Market – What’s Really Happening in 2025?
While national news paints a mixed picture of the UK job market, the view from the South West is more balanced and, in many ways, more encouraging.
At Tribus, we’re in daily conversations with hiring teams and tech professionals across the South West. What we’re seeing is a shift not necessarily a slowdown. Companies are still hiring, but with more focus. Candidates are engaged and open to change, but they’re taking the time to ask thoughtful questions. It’s a more intentional market and that’s no bad thing.
So, What’s Happening in the South West?
In June 2025, the South West recorded one of the highest increases in job postings in the country. Yes, some sectors are being cautious, but that’s not the full story.
Here’s what we’re seeing:
- Job adverts in the South West rose 4.7% in June 2025, bucking the national trend and marking one of the highest regional increases in the UK.
- Software and tech companies are focusing on key hires - people who can help them grow, innovate, or move faster.
- Employers are thinking about culture fit, long-term value, and how each hire shapes the team.
- There’s still strong demand for commercial, marketing, and product professionals - especially those who bring both strategic thinking and hands-on delivery.
And perhaps most importantly: good people are actively exploring. Whether it’s for growth, flexibility, or a fresh challenge, candidates are open to change and South West businesses are in a great place to offer it.
Where We’re Seeing Demand
If you work in sales, marketing, or product in the tech sector, there are still great opportunities out there, especially if you’re clear on the value you bring.
Here’s where we’re seeing movement:
Strategic Commercial Roles
B2B SaaS and tech firms are still hiring for roles that drive growth – sales development, demand generation, client success, and commercial leadership.
Product Management
Product teams are under pressure to deliver more with less so those who can align user needs with business impact are in high demand.
Marketing with an Edge
Marketing roles are leaning more towards data, performance, and content strategy. Experience with AI tools, automation, and CRM platforms is a big plus.
Remote and Hybrid Still Rule
Many South West companies are staying flexible. Hybrid roles are still the norm, and fully remote opportunities haven’t disappeared, especially for niche or senior hires.
For Employers: Be Clear, Be Bold
This is a great time to hire, especially if you know what you’re looking for. More candidates are available, but the best ones aren’t on the market for long.
Here’s our advice:
- Don’t sit on decisions – good people get snapped up quickly.
- Be honest about growth, flexibility, and development – it matters more than ever.
- Focus on what makes your opportunity stand out – not just salary, but team, mission, and real impact.
For Candidates: Now’s a Great Time to Look Around
The market isn’t flooded with roles, but the right roles are out there and companies are investing in people who can make a difference.
If you work in sales, marketing or product, especially in tech or software , now’s a great time to:
- Position yourself as someone who adds value quickly
- Show how you’ve adapted, led change, or driven results
- Be open to different sectors – many businesses are hiring in from outside their usual pool
And remember: sometimes the best roles come through conversations, not just job ads.
We won’t pretend it’s a boom. But for the South West, this is a steady, focused market and that brings real opportunities.
Whether you’re hiring or exploring your next move, having clarity matters, knowing what’s important, when to act, and what to ask. That’s where we come in.
As a recruitment partner, we offer more than just CVs or job specs. We help you cut through the noise, ask the right questions, and make confident decisions.
Whether you’re building a team or planning your next step – let’s figure it out together.
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