Leeds launches new flagship careers fair to connect city talent and opportunities

A new careers, jobs and training fair will take place in the city this year as part of a refreshed approach to  bringing together opportunities from multiple sectors and connecting them with talent across the city and region.

Set to take place on Tuesday 3 November at the first direct arena, the 'Careers in Leeds' fair brings together the three separate fairs from previous years; Leeds Digital Careers Fair, Leeds Creative Skills Festival and the SEND Next Choice Event into one flagship offer, allowing people across the city to see the breadth of opportunity across our various sectors.

Bringing together industries from across the city and wider region, the fair will be divided into designated zones including Construction, Manufacturing and Engineering, Health and Social Care, Early Years and Education, Public Services, Digital, Finance and Professional Services, Hospitality, Wholesale and Retail, and Creative and Culture. 

A dedicated ‘Support Zone’ will host organisations offering tailored opportunities for individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, as well as scheduled relaxed quiet period to allow attendees with additional needs to explore the stall and engage with exhibitors in a calm, low sensory environment. The SEND Next Choices programme will expand to offer year-round support for young people with SEND, creating employment pathways through employer interactions, youth engagement, and career advice to increase job opportunities in the city.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:

“We are delighted to bring this new flagship event to Leeds. Bringing a large number of employers together under one roof really does give people the chance to find out all about the huge range of opportunities we have here in the city.

“We’ve listened to feedback from employers and attendees from our previous fairs, and thought more about an offer that is inclusive to everyone, no matter if you are looking for a specific career, looking to change careers, or even just looking for some inspiration for what next.

“With the success of our other key employment event, the Leeds Apprenticeship Fair, which has grown to be the largest in the North, we know we can make this event the premier annual careers, jobs and training showcase for our region.”

To find out more about the event, sponsorship opportunities and how to attend visit Careers in Leeds | Inclusive Growth Leeds