Major careers and training fair taking over first direct bank arena

Connecting talent with real opportunities, Careers in Leeds brings together three previously separate events: the Leeds Digital Careers Fair, Leeds Creative Skills Festival and SEND Next Choice Event.

Building on the success of these individual events, the new format creates a single city-wide showcase of Leeds' key sectors, making it easier for visitors to explore the full range of careers, jobs, training and support available in one place.

Organised into dedicated zones, it will showcase a wide range of sectors including construction, manufacturing and engineering, health and social care, digital and technology, business, finance, hospitality, retail, education, public services and creative industries.

The fair, running from 12pm to 6pm, is completely free to attend and will host over 100 of the region’s leading employers, training providers and support organisations under one roof.

These include the event’s sponsor Bank of England, Burberry, Leeds Manufacturing Festival, Leeds Hotels and Venues Association plus many more.

Exhibitors will be showcasing live vacancies, apprenticeships, training opportunities and career pathways.

Workshops will also be running where visitors can learn more about how to showcase their skills and applying for opportunities, and there will also be speakers throughout the day including a panel session about how sports can help your career with Jamie Jones-Buchanan and others. Bank of England will also deliver a talk around careers in central banking.

A dedicated support zone will host organisations offering specialist advice and opportunities for people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). A quieter hour will also be available between 12pm and 1pm to ensure the event is accessible and welcoming for all visitors. 

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, said:

“We’re thrilled to be bringing this flagship careers event to Leeds, to really give people the opportunity to learn more about the huge number of opportunities that are available in the region.

“This showcase event is inclusive to anyone who is looking for their next opportunity, including job seekers, career returners, career changers, graduates and students. It will be a great way to meet employers and training providers, or just get a taste for what’s out there.”

The event takes place at the first direct bank arena and is free to attend but visitors are recommended to book their space in advance at Careers in Leeds 2026 - Jobs, training and opportunities in the city.