New research by The University of Law identifies Manchester as the leading city for hybrid legal roles.
- The analysis highlights that 38% of legal roles are either hybrid or fully remote.
- While London offers the highest volume of legal jobs, Manchester leads in remote and hybrid options.
- Data reveals that traditional legal hubs are adapting to a demand for greater work flexibility.
- The study emphasises the increasing importance of flexible working in legal talent acquisition and retention.
In a recent study conducted by The University of Law, Manchester emerges as the prime location for securing hybrid or remote roles within the legal sector in the United Kingdom. The research, which involved scrutinising over a thousand job listings, indicates a growing trend towards flexible working arrangements within the industry.
Interestingly, while London continues to offer the largest number of legal positions, the capital city falls behind Manchester when considering the percentage of roles that are available with hybrid or remote working opportunities. This trend signifies a shift in traditional employment practices within the legal arena, with greater adaptability being exercised in locations outside of London.
According to the research, following Manchester, cities such as Birmingham, Liverpool, and Bristol are also noteworthy for their significant percentages of hybrid or remote job opportunities in the legal field. These cities, traditionally known as legal hubs, are aligning with a broader move towards flexible working models.
The rapid adoption of remote working is further corroborated by statistics suggesting that 78% of individuals engaged in such roles report an enhancement in their work-life balance. Consequently, more than half of employers have incorporated remote working options, reflecting the changing expectations and demands of the modern workforce.
John Watkins, Director of Employability at The University of Law, comments on this trend, stating that businesses must recognise remote working as an established norm. He asserts that the capacity for flexibility is crucial for both employers and employees, particularly within the legal profession, which has been slower to adapt to these changes.
The research heralds a potential migration of legal talent from traditional city centres to regions offering flexible working options.
