The number of advertised HR jobs has risen in the second quarter of the year, up 8% in the North West of England and 4% nationally compared to the second quarter last year, according to the latest Robert Walters UK jobs index.

The number of advertised jobs in London has also been steadily increasing throughout the year, with the number of jobs up 4% from the first quarter to the second.

"The spike in demand for HR professionals in the North West is very encouraging, and reflects the broader growth we’ve seen among businesses since the start of this year," Chris Poole, Managing Director at Robert Walters.

The spike in demand for HR professionals in the North West is very encouraging, and reflects the broader growth we’ve seen among businesses since the start of this year.

As the economic recovery from the recession looks increasingly assured, international and domestic employers are looking to expand their HR presence throughout the UK.

Key hiring trends

HR today has a prime seat at the leadership table, with significant influence in setting and accomplishing strategic business goals.

Organisations’ drive to attract and retain the best talent has created demand for HR professionals working in:

• Graduate and lateral recruitment
• Learning and development
• Compensation
• Regulatory and benefits

"Overall, economic stability and increased business confidence in London and the South East has created additional demand to grow HR teams. This is an exciting time as human capital management today has a prime seat at the top leadership table within the job market," continued Chris Poole.

About the UK Job Index

The Robert Walters UK Job Index tracks job advertisement volumes over leading job boards across the UK in sectors such as banking and finance, risk, compliance, marketing, technology, legal, tax, secretarial and support, HR and procurement and supply chain.

Released on a quarterly basis, the report provides an indicative summary of recruitment activity being experienced across major national markets as well as key industry comparisons.