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Quarterly NI Industry Report

2024

Darren McVicker

The 2024 Quarterly Vickerstock Northern Ireland Report paints a complex picture of the market
conditions in Northern Ireland over the last quarter. There have been record highs with job
advertisements and open vacancies, however, the challenge remains surrounding the availability of
skilled labour. It remains very much a candidate-led market where demand outweighs supply. While
there have been some sectors, particularly within manufacturing that have reduced hiring, there
remains an overall appetite for experienced talent across the industry.


In this climate, companies need to sharpen their competitive edge. To attract top talent, it’s crucial to
understand and meet the evolving needs of the workforce. Being proactive, enhancing benefits,
embracing flexibility, and prioritising employee development, will keep your organisation top-of-mind
for candidates. Some businesses may resist these changes, but in a market where competition for
talent is constant, agility and adaptability are key to winning the best hires.


The final quarter of 2024 offers companies a crucial window for their 2025 hiring plans, it offers a
chance to adapt, innovate and prepare.


If you have the opportunity to do it now, then take any competitive advantage you can get ahead of
those who will be coming for the same talent.



Message from our
Managing Director

Managing Director

Vickerstock

In the third quarter of 2024, Northern Ireland's key
industrial sectors, construction, engineering,
manufacturing, and food manufacturing, continued
to navigate economic challenges while showing
resilience.


Growth was driven by sustained demand,
improvements in production capacity, and strategic
investments in technology, though challenges such
as inflationary pressures, supply chain disruptions,
and labour shortages remained notable. Each
sector faced unique dynamics, with varying
impacts on productivity and overall economic
contribution.

Executive
Summary