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  • York Ranked Ninth In UK In Sustainability Rankings

    The University of York has been ranked the ninth most sustainable university in the UK and 29th in the world, according to the QS Sustainability Rankings 2024. The rankings assess the ability of 1400 universities around the world to “tackle the world’s greatest Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) issues.” Methodology Universities were measured on their Environmental Impact, Social Impact as well as a newly added Governance category, in which York came joint first globally, In the overall ranking, York moved up seven places, coming in at 29th place in the world. Sustainability Initiatives York’s sustainability initiatives include: Green flag campus status held since 2013 - we meet the national standard for publicly accessible parks and green spaces in the UK. 100% divestment from fossil fuel companies - we no longer have investments in the fossil fuel industry 26,000kWh per year of solar energy generated by 80 solar panels installed across our University campus The YORCUP Scheme which has saved over one million single-use plastic cups from being thrown away Research on environmental sustainability and resilience – by collaborating widely and working across disciplines, researchers at York are helping to shape a more sustainable future for us all. University Community Mark Clough, Sustainability Manager at the University of York, said: "It is fantastic to be recognised for the progress we have made on embedding sustainability throughout our University community. The high ranking achieved for our positive governance measures shows we have a strong foundation for our varied sustainability works." “We are committed to making a real impact on addressing some of the world's biggest challenges and this ranking is a positive reflection on the progress and quality of the sustainability actions undertaken across the University."

  • Small Businesses Need Support & Finance To Help UK Hit Net Zero Targets

    The National Enterprise Network (NEN), the country’s leading representative of enterprise support for start-up, small and micro-businesses, has released the results of its 2023 Business Barometer, one of the country’s largest surveys of new start-ups and early-stage businesses. NEN conducted the Business Barometer survey in collaboration with Enterprise Northern Ireland (ENI) in order to best understand the challenges small businesses face and the support they need to address these challenges. More than 1,000 respondents, who included the owners, founders and senior managers of largely micro, small and self-employed businesses and sole traders from a broad spectrum of business sectors, took part in the survey. While the majority (52%) were looking to grow in 2024, almost every business surveyed said they would need additional support to hit growth and net zero targets. More than three quarters of the businesses surveyed (77%) said they would be needing finance in the coming year and 20% of them said finance was needed to help them transition to net zero. The importance of transitioning to net zero also featured in the Business Barometer survey’s Top Business Needs where ‘Introducing and embedding green sustainability practices in your business’ came eighth. It appeared again when respondents noted the need for skill development, with one of the top categories being ‘Green / Sustainable Practices’. Speaking at NEN’s recent conference, A Manifesto for Change in Enterprise Support, Alex Till, NEN Chairman said: “The worldwide commitment to net zero targets will change priorities and rules around who businesses can work with. Many businesses will need support in understanding what this means for them, and how they can remain competitive.” “Often, small businesses lack in-house resources and it is too expensive and difficult to get reliable advice. So, we have to find a way to enable them to make that transition to a new landscape and get contracts with the bigger companies that are now demanding greater sustainability in their supply chains.” Carol Daniels, Operations Director at NEN added: “Small businesses are the key to a net zero future. It is evident from the findings in the Barometer that small businesses are eager to evolve and transition to net zero and it is our responsibility, as enterprise support organisations nationwide, to be able to provide guidance and support if they reach out." "At the NEN we will continue to represent the enterprise support sector to key government stakeholders and policymakers for essential resources to do exactly this.” 52% of the businesses surveyed reported that they are expecting growth within the coming year, while 40% have seen their profit increase this year and 26% have recruited additional staff in the past year. However, 77% report they are likely to need additional financing in the next 12 months. Specifically, 19% of those businesses are seeking finance to help them decarbonise operations and transition to net zero. The full survey results are available here

  • FTSE Chair & Former CEO Rupert Soames To Be Next CBI President

    The CBI’s top governance bodies, including the CBI Board, have today approved the nomination of Rupert Soames OBE, as the next President of the CBI. Rupert Soames will work with the current President to permit a smooth transition early in the New Year. As with previous appointments, and in line with the CBI’s Royal Charter, Rupert will be formally elected by members at the next AGM in June 2024. Soames started his career at the General Electric Company (GEC) and brings to the CBI nearly 40 years of experience running global businesses in manufacturing, services, IT, and engineering. Having been one of the longest-serving public company CEOs in the UK – including 11 years at Aggreko and 9 years at Serco – he brings with him a wealth of boardroom experience from some of the biggest companies in the UK. Currently serving as Chair of FTSE medical technology manufacturer Smith & Nephew, and with over 20 years of board experience, Soames will also provide deep experience in corporate governance. Brian McBride, outgoing CBI President, said: “I’m pleased to announce that after a robust search process, Rupert Soames will be taking on the role as the next President of the CBI. With the CBI back influencing at the highest levels across the UK again, there is no better person to pass the baton to. Rupert’s track record as one of the UK’s longest serving and most successful CEO’s makes him the ideal choice.” Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Executive, said: “Rupert is a fantastic advocate for UK business, and I am delighted to enter the new year working alongside someone with his depth and breadth of experience to ensure the CBI delivers a strong voice for our members, trade associations and for the UK business community." “As we head into 2024, leadership from business is vital in delivering sustainable growth and a positive vision for the UK economy, and I look forward to delivering that together.” Rupert Soames, incoming CBI President, said: "I am pleased and honoured to have been nominated to be the next President of the CBI. After a decade of disruption and distraction due to Brexit, Covid, inflation and labour shortages, business and government need to work closely together to deliver a prosperous future where economic growth will lift living standards and sustainably fund the UK’s vital public services." “The CBI is needed more now than at almost any time in its history, and it will be a privilege to lead the organisation in the coming years."

  • Leicester College Retains ‘Good’ Ofsted Status

    Leicester College has again been rated as ‘Good’ in all aspects by Ofsted after an inspection in October 2023. The College’s last Ofsted inspection in 2017 also rated it as ‘Good’. The College achieved ‘Good’ ratings for all aspects of its provision: for quality of education; behaviour and attitudes; personal development; leadership and management; education programmes for young people; adult learning programmes; apprenticeships; and provision for learners with high needs. The new report from Ofsted highlights that: ‘Students, adults, apprentices and learners with high needs gain confidence in themselves and what they can achieve. They are well prepared to take their next steps in education, employment or living more independently.’ ‘Students and apprentices demonstrate high standards of behaviours at all sites.’ ‘Teachers have considerable knowledge of their subjects and use this well to teach the curriculum.’ ‘Almost all younger students participate in useful work experience that supports them to develop their personal skills and vocational expertise. Many progress to employment or further study at college or university.’ ‘Learners with high needs benefit from suitably planned courses that meet their individual needs.’ ‘Students and apprentices have access to a wide range of support and activities to help them with their mental and physical well-being.’ ‘Leaders establish productive links with a wide range of stakeholders and employers.’ ‘Leaders and managers prioritise developing the skills of teachers and staff. It has a positive impact on the quality of the teaching, learning and assessment that students and apprentices receive.’ ‘Leaders and managers focus closely on decreasing social disadvantage in the city and region.’ The full report can be viewed here. Verity Hancock, Principal and CEO of Leicester College said: “We are delighted with this excellent report which reflects the high standards of teaching, learning, support and facilities available to all of our students and apprentices." "This grading is testament to the hard work and expertise of all our staff in helping to ensure a great experience and successful outcomes for our students and apprentices.”

  • Gobbling Up Tradition With Turkey At Christmas

    When Christmas season arrives, many people eagerly anticipate the sumptuous feast that has become synonymous with the holiday – the Christmas dinner and for many people around the world it is the one time of the year that they eat turkey and the turkey takes centre stage. The tradition of enjoying a beautifully roasted turkey during the Yuletide season has a rich history, and its roots can be traced back to a combination of historical, cultural, and practical reasons. The tradition of consuming turkey during the Christmas season has historical roots dating back centuries. The indigenous peoples of North America, where the turkey is native, were among the first to domesticate and cultivate these birds. When European settlers arrived in the New World, they discovered the turkey and introduced it to their own culinary traditions. The turkey was a symbol of abundance and feasting, making it a natural choice for special occasions like Christmas. In the 16th century, during the reign of Henry VIII in England, the practice of serving large, roasted birds at Christmas celebrations became more widespread. While Henry VIII didn't introduce the turkey to England, he is known for popularising the tradition of serving larger birds, such as swans and peacocks. However, the turkey's more practical size and abundance made it a more accessible option for the general population. Turkey's affordability and ample availability make it an ideal choice for holiday feasting. Turkeys are typically large birds, which means they can feed a large family or a group of guests, making them a cost-effective centerpiece for holiday dinners. Their popularity and wide distribution also ensure that most people can easily find a turkey during the Christmas season. As Christmas traditions developed over time, the idea of sharing a festive meal with loved ones gained significance. The turkey's capacity to feed many people made it a symbol of togetherness and shared abundance. Roasting a turkey is a labour of love, often requiring hours of preparation and cooking. Families coming together to partake in this culinary masterpiece which creates memories and for many has become a cherished holiday tradition. Turkey is known for its versatility, making it an excellent choice for a festive feast. Whether roasted, smoked, deep-fried, or prepared in various other ways, the turkey can be adapted to suit a wide range of culinary preferences, ensuring that it pleases all palates. It also enables the chefs amongst us to use up the leftovers in a myriad of ways from cold cuts to soups, pies and curries so that there is no waste either. The tradition of eating turkey at Christmas is a harmonious blend of history, practicality, and shared cultural values. It's a tradition that has stood the test of time, signifying abundance, togetherness, and the joy of the holiday season. Whether you're enjoying a classic roasted turkey with all the trimmings or exploring creative culinary twists, the Christmas turkey remains a symbol of celebration and a heartwarming holiday tradition for people around the world.

  • Leeds Chef Sets Out To Wow Guests This Christmas

    As Christmas is a time of giving, Executive Head Chef at Craig Rogan at The Collective, Craig, shares what he is calling ‘achievable tweaks’ that will elevate traditional elements on a dish and leave guests wondering how even the most novice of cooks managed to pull off a festive feast to remember. Starting with a firm favourite, the humble Yorkshire Pudding. Craig says, “there’s no denying a Yorkshire Pudding should take pride place on the plate – so why not dress them up for the occasion.” He continues, “Instead of using standard oil in the Yorkshire Pudding tray, make a simple switch to black truffle oil which will give your puddings a slight hint of truffle – then for that extra special Christmas touch, fry off some shallots to create a crispy and delicious topping for your puddings.” Sprouts scream Christmas, but they are also often the butt of the joke at Christmas – until now. “Serving sprouts whole, in a bowl without showing them any love is the reason this token tradition gets a bad rep,” says Craig. “Firstly, why serve them whole? My tip is to quarter them and instead of boiling them in water, part-boil them in chicken stock to enrich the flavour." “Next, dice smoked pancetta and fry it off in hazelnut butter. Once cooked, throw in the quartered sprouts, and toss them in the smokey, buttery mix – heat through and then serve.” Finally, no Christmas Day dinner is complete without gravy, which should be meaty and morish, whilst not overpowering the plate. Craig says, “the ultimate gravy to accompany any turkey is a combination of chicken stock and turkey juices." “As Christmas Day can be somewhat manic, a good chicken stock tastes even better if it’s made the day before, ready to combine with the turkey juices and a mix of red wine, red wine vinegar and unsalted butter on the day." "The result will be a richer, fuller gravy with bold and deep flavours that will certainly wow guests this Christmas.” Appointed Head Chef at The Collective, a unique retail and restaurant space on Boar Lane, Leeds, Craig has been serving up a Sunday lunch menu since he took over the kitchen in September 2023. Craig Rogan at The Collective is launching an 8-course Christmas taster menu, where guests can expect a variety of Christmas classics with a modern-British twist using locally sourced ingredients. Completing the menu is Craig’s take on a classic After Eight desert set to take guests on a trip down memory lane. Christmas with Craig Rogan at The Collective launches on Monday 4th December and booking is essential.

  • Dedicated To Celebrating The Global Volunteering Community

    International Volunteer Day (IVD) is a significant global observance celebrated annually on December 5. This day serves as a reminder of the crucial contributions made by volunteers worldwide and highlights the impact of their selfless efforts on communities, societies, and nations. Volunteerism, at its core, embodies the spirit of altruism and civic engagement. IVD provides a platform to recognize and appreciate the diverse range of volunteers who dedicate their time, skills, and energy to various causes. Whether it's environmental conservation, healthcare, education, or social justice, volunteers play a vital role in addressing pressing issues and creating positive change. One key aspect of International Volunteer Day is its emphasis on inclusivity. Volunteers come from all walks of life, transcending geographical, cultural, and socio-economic boundaries. This diversity in volunteerism fosters a sense of global solidarity, reinforcing the idea that collective action can make a substantial difference. The theme of each International Volunteer Day reflects current global challenges and encourages volunteers to address specific issues. From disaster relief to sustainable development, the themes guide volunteers toward impactful contributions aligned with broader global goals, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Moreover, IVD serves as a call to action, inspiring more individuals to engage in volunteer work. It raises awareness about the transformative power of volunteering, not only for the beneficiaries but also for the volunteers themselves. The personal growth, skill development, and sense of fulfillment experienced by volunteers contribute to the creation of well-rounded, empathetic individuals. In recent years, the role of technology in facilitating volunteerism has gained prominence. Digital platforms connect volunteers with opportunities, making it easier for them to find and contribute to causes they are passionate about. This intersection of technology and volunteerism broadens the reach and impact of individual efforts. While International Volunteer Day celebrates the positive aspects of volunteering, it also underscores the need for sustained support and recognition of volunteers. Adequate resources, training, and acknowledgment are crucial to maintaining a thriving volunteer ecosystem. Governments, NGOs, and communities must collaborate to create an enabling environment that encourages and values volunteer contributions. International Volunteer Day serves as a global celebration of the transformative power of volunteerism. It highlights the incredible work done by volunteers around the world, promoting a culture of compassion, solidarity, and positive change. As we commemorate this day, let it inspire individuals to join the ranks of volunteers, collectively shaping a better and more compassionate world for everyone.

  • Students Honoured At Yorkshire Asian Young Achiever Awards

    Three students from the University of York have been recognised for their achievements at the Yorkshire Asian Young Achiever Awards. The University is also a sponsor of the awards, which are organised by the QED Foundation, a registered charity which exists to improve the social and economic position of disadvantaged communities in partnership with public, private and civil society organisations. Mohammad Malik won the award for Achievement in Education. He is studying for a PhD in Politics, but has had a challenging journey to reach this point, including needing to withdraw from University due to caring commitments. He now draws on his experiences to provide mentorship for students who want to enter higher education or study for a PhD. He is also active in the Student Action for Refugees group, organising fundraising events, trips to Calais to deliver clothes and toiletries to refugee camps, and helping Afghan refugees to settle in York. An advocate for inclusion and equality at the University, Mohammad has run workshops on anti-racist practice, produced a comprehensive report on the experiences of BAME LGBTQ+ students and created safe spaces for discussion. He has also recently received the VC’s Award at the recent Inclusive Impact Awards. Mohammad said: "The YAYA's celebrate Asian talent from across Yorkshire. It was a privilege to even be nominated amongst such fantastic change makers. To win the award was truly amazing. I've been at the University of York for less than a year, but to be a part of such a socially-conscious and supportive community has given me the opportunities I would never have had." Tanisha Jain is the first Asian woman to be York Sport Union President, and is committed to removing barriers and improving inclusion in sport. She won the award for Achievement in Sport. During her time in post, she has increased diversity in sport at York, with participation by the BAME and LGBTQ+ communities rising by around 30%. Tanisha said: “Winning the YAYA award in Sport means the world to me, to be able to educate and empower other people in a field so close to my heart is all I’ve ever wanted, and to be recognised for it feels wonderful! I hope this proves to everyone out there that sports truly is a place for anybody and everybody.” In further recognition for York students, Rohan Ashar was Highly Commended for the Not for Profit Achievement award. As YUSU Activities Officer, he promoted volunteering projects encouraging students to look beyond their academic life and engage with the local community.

  • Funding Granted To Extend Electric Vehicle Battery Lifetime

    Eatron Technologies and About:Energy have been awarded funding from UKRI’s Faraday Battery Challenge to develop a first-of-its-kind AI-powered decision engine that delivers increased battery longevity, accelerates time-to-market, and cements the UK’s position as a global leader in AI-powered intelligent battery management systems. Current battery management systems (BMS) rely on simple, empirical methods that sacrifice accuracy in return for reduced computational effort. Conventional AI-powered methods, meanwhile, remain challenging to integrate within the BMS due to their complexity, demanding training process, and the need for large volumes of input data. The new project – dubbed aiMAGINE – brings together About:Energy’s pioneering high-fidelity electrochemical battery models that achieve rapid and accurate calibration with Eatron’s unique edge and AI-powered cloud platform. Combined they will deliver highly accurate assessments of state-of-charge (SoC), state-of-health (SoH) and patented remaining useful life (RUL) predictions. AI complements the electrochemical models, enhancing predictions by accounting for complex physical behaviours that cannot be modelled. As a result, the pioneering new AI-powered decision engine (AI-DE) will provide highly accurate operational parameters to the BMS, significantly increasing battery pack longevity and simplifying integration. “Implementing our novel AI-powered intelligent battery software layer with this revolutionary AI-DE can extend a battery pack’s first life by up to 20%,” said Dr Umut Genc, CEO of Eatron. “This makes it possible for OEMs to design optimally-sized, more cost-effective battery packs, and this actively contributes to our sustainable e-mobility goals by reducing raw material consumption and CO2 emissions.” “The use of our advanced electrochemical models vastly streamlines AI model training, and this facilitates both ease of integration and a reduced time-to-market for OEMs and Tier 1s,” said Dr Kieran O'Regan, Co-Founder and COO of About:Energy. “The high-fidelity modelling reduces the need for physical experiments while delivering a clearer, more accurate picture of battery health. Armed with this information, an AI-DE-equipped BMS can deliver not just a longer battery lifetime, but faster charging times, too.” Eatron and About:Energy will capitalise on their existing relationships with OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers to develop the system for use in both 2- and 4-wheeled electric vehicles. The two businesses collaboratively applied for the grant after sowing the seeds for a partnership at the Battery Technology Global Business Innovation Programme in Japan, where Innovate UK brought together some of the UK’s most promising innovators in the battery development and technology space. The funding from UK Research and Innovation’s Faraday Battery Challenge, delivered by Innovate UK, is part of an £11 million package that aims to accelerate the development and commercialisation of state-of-the-art battery technologies in the UK and support growth of the supply chain in the UK battery sector. It forms a key part of the UK Government’s net zero transport goals and supports job creation in cutting-edge AI technologies and increased consumer confidence in electric vehicles.

  • Job Numbers Decline As Firms Respond To Economic Uncertainty

    The number of new jobs being posted has declined dramatically over the past year as firms rein in their hiring plans in light of ongoing economic uncertainty. That’s according to the latest data from the world’s largest network of job boards, Broadbean Technology . The firm’s latest data shows that the number of new roles has fallen by 22% year-on-year, with employers reluctant to increase headcount as a result of ongoing economic challenges. Despite the slowdown in hiring, skills shortages are still impacting firms, with the number of new applications for jobs also down 20% year-on-year. This latest news comes at a time when the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has lowered previous unemployment rates as it reviews the data from its Labour Force Survey. With these figures showing a larger decline in unemployment levels than previously thought, Broadbean has warned that skills shortages will remain a challenge despite the slowdown in hiring. Alex Fourlis, Managing Director of Broadbean Technology, commented: “The data clearly shows that firms are reining in their hiring which, perhaps given the current climate is unsurprising. However, the recent fall in applications during this period should be a concern for employers, particularly those looking to take on staff on short-term contracts to help them cover the busy holiday period in the next few weeks. Our data suggests that fewer people are applying for roles and, with Christmas approaching, many organisations may struggle to secure the skills they need in time.”

  • Assistant Curator Appointed For National Gallery Bicentenary Project

    Laura McSorley, a Curator, Producer from the Black Isle and a graduate of the University of Dundee, has been appointed as one of four Assistant Curators by the National Gallery, with support from Art Fund, to work on a commission by Turner Prize-winning artist Jeremy Deller for the National Gallery’s Bicentenary year. 'The Triumph of Art', a UK-wide performance work, will mark the culmination of NG200 – the National Gallery’s year-long festival of art to celebrate its 200th anniversary. Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design (DJCAD), part of the University of Dundee, has been named as the Scottish partner in the project, the first time the National Gallery has had a formal partnership with an art school or college. Each Art Fund Assistant Curator will be seconded to one of four partner organisations working on the commission – The Box in Plymouth, Mostyn in Llandudno, Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design in Dundee and The Playhouse in Derry/Londonderry – and all have strong links to the culture of the area and community where they will be based. In a brand-new model of partnership for the National Gallery, the Art Fund Assistant Curators will have extra capacity built into their roles to support the partner organisations in their day-to-day work. After graduating from Fine Art at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design, Laura spent two years running GeneratorPROJECTS, an internationally renowned, artist-led gallery and exhibition space in Dundee. She has previously worked as Programme Assistant at the Edinburgh Art Festival and is currently working with a group of young people for the Creative Community Network project with Dundee Heritage Trust. In 2022, Laura was elected to the British Art Network’s Emerging Curators Group and has recently been appointed to the board of the Bothy Project – a charity that operates in a set of rural contexts to provide creative residencies in bespoke, off-grid bothies across Scotland. Laura said, “I am delighted to be given the opportunity to be part of this celebration of the National Gallery’s Bicentenary and look forward to working with Jeremy Deller and colleagues here at DJCAD.” Laura’s curatorial practice has been informed by lived experience as a working-class person, she specialises in supporting artists at the early stages of their career and is keen to undertake projects that focus on generating community, hospitality and joyful moments of togetherness. She has research interests that include tracing the impact of artist-led ecologies and how artists can work in non-visual and sensory ways. Laura also works collaboratively with artist Saoirse Amira Anis under the guise ‘two of cups’ where they have produced a series of performance events and gatherings titled A Very Heavenly Social. Inspired by the National Gallery’s history and collection, the Art Fund Assistant Curators will help bring local traditions and heritage to the work being developed by Deller. Drawing on themes of celebration, commemoration and demonstration, Deller, together with the Art Fund Assistant Curators and with community involvement at each of the partners, will work to develop a near year-long public programme of collective and interactive activities. 'The Triumph of Art' will culminate in a performance organised by each of the partners in their locality. A major final performance will take place in July 2025, taking over Trafalgar Square with celebration and rounding off the Gallery’s 200th birthday.

  • The Great Reskilling: Many Brits Currently Considering Switching Jobs

    Over a third (35%) of Brits are actively looking at steps to change jobs to increase their earning potential, according to new research from Forbes Advisor , the price comparison and financial guidance website. This figure increases to over half (52%) of those working in creative arts and design jobs – the highest of any industry. Key Findings: Over a third (35%) of Brits are taking steps to make a career change to increase their wages in response to the cost-of-living crisis More than half (52%) of those in the creative sector are gearing up to move roles to bring in more cash Brits aged between 18-34 are more likely to have made a career change in the last three years (50%), compared to the average Brit (30%) Nearly two-thirds (62%) of people in marketing and advertising industry have changed jobs in the last three years IT (12%) and artificial intelligence (11%) came out as the top career paths that Brits believe were most lucrative The research also found that 30% of the working population – equal to 9.9 million Brits – have seen their working status change in the last three years by leaving their job, returning to education or retiring. When it comes to career longevity, younger people are less likely to stay in their jobs than the rest of the population, with half (50%) of restless 18-34-year-olds in the UK having changed their profession during the last 36 months. The average is below 30%. Among all ages, London saw the most movement, with two-fifths (40%) of the capital’s residents changing their working status since 2020. The South East and North West of England both saw the least job movement, with around a quarter (25%) of people in these regions seeing their job status change. When asked why they had changed their role, one of the most common reasons given by Brits (13%) was to increase earning potential, a similar number (13%) of workers also say that the industry they were working in paid them poorly. The cost-of-living crisis is also cited by many as a factor in leaving their job, with 12% saying that increasing living costs meant their pay was no longer covering monthly expenses. Those working in marketing, advertising or public relations are most likely to have left their job over the past three years, with almost two-thirds (62%) of their industry seeing a change in job status. The volatility of energy and utility prices in recent times has also translated across to jobs in the industry – 60% of energy and utility workers having switched jobs in that time period, while 59% of those working in recruitment and HR, placing third in the list. Who Is Most Likely To Want To Change Their Career? Marketing, Advertising and Public Relations (62%) Energy and Utilities (60%) Recruitment and HR (59%) Charity and Voluntary Work (58%) Environment and Agriculture (57%) Source: Forbes Advisor The volatility in the job market comes at a time where British companies are failing at the fastest rate since the financial crisis in 2008, partly due to higher interest rates, while increased operating costs and reduced consumer spending also play a part. When it comes to industries where people think they will earn more money, IT is ranked number one (12%), and the emerging industry of artificial intelligence is a close second, with 11% of Brits thinking that joining the AI revolution will put more money in their pockets. The creative industry has struggled for investment recently – and three in 10 Brits (29%) say they avoid working in the industry entirely because of the poor pay. Kevin Pratt, business expert at Forbes Advisor , said: “There has been a long-term trend away from the ‘job for life’ culture that characterised the workplace for previous generations, and this has been given fresh impetus by the cost-of-living crisis. With household budgets under severe pressure, it looks like many people are prioritising securing a higher income above all else." “If we go back 20 or 30 years, employers would look for a period of employment consolidation when examining a CV - evidence that a candidate was able to commit to a particular challenge for a number of years. But society has changed. It is now widely accepted that people will move around much more frequently in search of a bigger pay cheque." “A volatile workplace is no bad thing - it means people are willing and able to change according to variances in demand. Take the inexorable rise of the IT sector in general and AI in particular. These will provide many well-paid jobs in the coming months and years, and happily there are likely to be people who will want and be able to grasp the opportunities that arise.”

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