Top sectors

Sectors are different parts of the economy. To be successful, each sector needs a workforce with specialist skills. You can explore the top sectors in Greater Manchester over the next few pages.

Digital, creative and media

Digital skills needed in almost all jobs. The digital, creative and media sector is resilient. It includes industries like TV, advertising, telecoms, computer games and programming. The sector is thriving in Greater Manchester, with major clusters in cyber security, e-commerce and media.

Manufacturing and technology

The purpose of manufacturing is to make things – from biscuits and textiles to electronics and high-tech machinery. It also covers researching and developing new products, as well as services such as purchasing. The sector is using more digital technology like artificial intellegence, automation and robotics. The need to make sustainable and low carbon products (including electricity) means this is a really important sector.

NHS, medical research and social care

This sector is about looking after people. Their are hundreds of different types of jobs in this sector from researching new vaccines, treating health and medical conditions, and supporting people with day-to-day living needs due to disability, illness or difficult life situations. The sector covers NHS and private hospitals, research laboratories, as well as care homes, nursing homes and day care.

Logistics and e-commerce

The logistics industry gets products from one place to another, safely and on time. It is extremely important when you buy things online and includes tracking, warehousing and delivery. E-commerce (buying things online) has become more important during the COVID-19 pandemic and most businesses have created ways to make money online.

Business, financial and professional services

This sector covers a range of jobs which support businesses to run and grow. It includes banking, legal, HR, as well as services that help companies become more efficient and reduce costs. The sector is becoming more digital especially in financial technology or FinTech.

Green Industries

The growth of Green Industries, and the vision for Greater Manchester to be 'carbon neutral by 2038', means there are more job opportunities in this sector. The jobs are very varied and will focus on improving the energy efficiency of homes, low carbon transport, creating clean energy locally, increasing biodiversity and protecting nature. In time, all jobs will be 'green jobs'. Key employers are construction companies, universities or reseach companies, utility (electricity and water) companies.