THE EXECUTIVE EDGE

“As we move through the final weeks of 2024, this time of year naturally prompts reflection and forward planning. Whether your focus is on closing out projects or preparing for what’s next, the coming months bring opportunities to re-calibrate and set a strong course for 2025.

We’re ending the year with a sharp focus on supporting our clients across every division: Executive, Technical, Manufacturing & Logistics, and Commercial. We know the business landscape remains as dynamic as ever, with significant developments on the horizon. From April’s budget changes, including National Insurance, to evolving Employment Law and expanded day-one rights for permanent employees, these changes are set to impact key decisions in the months ahead.

This edition of Executive Edge consolidates the insights, trends, and updates you need to navigate these complexities with confidence. With the groundwork done for you, it’s your personal shortcut to staying informed and ahead of the curve.

Let’s make the most of this moment, taking note of both what’s been achieved this year and the possibilities that lie ahead.”

Jess Comolly-Jones

Co-Managing Director - Rubicon Recruitment

UK Employment Market Indicators

The latest figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) reveal a number of shifts in the UK employment market, providing a snapshot of current trends amid ongoing economic challenges.

The unemployment rate has risen slightly, from 4.1% to 4.3%, indicating a modest rise in joblessness. Meanwhile, the number of vacancies has decreased from 857,000 to 818,000, suggesting a slowdown in hiring.

Average weekly earnings have seen an increase, rising from £689 to £706, a positive indicator that businesses continue to invest in their workforce, especially in certain high-demand roles. However, the impact of the upcoming changes to National Insurance and taxation from April’s budget could place added financial pressure on both employers and employees (indirectly) in the months ahead, potentially influencing future wage growth and recruitment strategies.

The redundancy rate has increased from 2.9% to 3.4%, indicating that certain sectors continue to face restructuring challenges. This, combined with rising economic pressures, could lead to further job uncertainty for some businesses, especially in the face of expected changes to employment law and the implementation of day-one rights for permanent employees.

As we move into 2025, these indicators highlight a UK labour market in transition. With changes to National Insurance, Employment Law, and other budgetary measures expected in April, businesses will need to stay agile and proactive in managing talent, labour costs, and recruitment strategies as the landscape evolves.

PRE & POST BUDGET NI CALCULATOR

Plan ahead with Rubicon’s complimentary Pre & Post Budget NI Calculator. This user-friendly tool helps you gauge how upcoming changes will impact your employee costs…

READ - THE AUTUMN BUDGET 24/25

Understand how the changes announced in the Autumn Budget may affect your business come April 2025.

INDUSTRY TRENDS & FASTEST-GROWING SECTORS

LISTEN - EVOLVE TO SUCCEED PODCAST

Listen to the story of Rubicon's recently appointed Co-Managing Directors, Jess Comolly-Jones & Terry Porter in their journey into leadership for an Employee-Owned business.

JOIN THE NETWORK

Join the network of leadership professionals and stay ahead of the curve by following our dedicated LinkedIn page for Rubicon Executive. We’ll share the latest industry insights, executive opportunities, and leadership updates relating to all things recruitment and retention strategy.

“True leadership is about creating an environment where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to do their best work. When you take care of your people, retention takes care of itself.”

~ Simon Sinek

ATTEND - RECRUITMENT & ON-BOARDING HR FORUM

Hosted in partnership with Ellis Jones Solicitors, virtually, on Wednesday 15th January. This is your exclusive invite for you to attend or the business's dedicated HR employee. Click the image for more information on how to register.

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

About Rubicon Executive

Rubicon Executive Search & Selection specialises in the recruitment for Senior, Executive and C-Suite level positions. Our Executive Sub-Brand relaunched in 2024, having evolved from the previously known Senior Appointments division under the Rubicon portfolio.

Established in 1982, Rubicon Recruitment Group, is 100% Employee-owned. Its employees - now known as partners - own the company though an Employee Ownership Trust and Rubicon People Partnership, at the time of transition, was one of four wholly employee-owned recruitment consultancies in the UK. Rubicon Recruitment Group specialises in supplying temporary and permanent staff to Commercial, Technical, Manufacturing & Logistics sectors across the UK.

For more information and to view our current executive vacancies, click here to see our Rubicon Executive micro-site.

Have a Merry Christmas, and we look forward to bringing further Executive insights in Q1.