The Most Influential Industries in the UK Today

Job seekers today want more than a job; they want to make an impact. Recruitment isn't just about proving your fit for a role - it's also about finding the biggest stage to showcase your talents, and you can choose one fo the major industries of the UK to do so.

Getting into a UK industry that offers the greatest opportunity to shine is crucial. Whether you're a student, a recent graduate or an experienced professional looking for a career change, positioning yourself in a thriving sector can significantly enhance your career trajectory. The right industry provides job security and avenues for growth, innovation and recognition.

In this article, we provide an overview of the most influential industries in the UK today. You'll gain cornerstone information for these key sectors, pick up tips on how to break into them and access resources for crafting a stand-out CV tailored to each industry.

In this article, we cover:

• What is an industry?

• What are the different types of industries?

• Top 15 industries in the UK.

• Top skills employers look for within these industries.

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What is an industry?

An industry - sometimes referred to as a sector or field - refers to a group of companies and organisations operating within a shared business landscape, producing similar goods or services often in competition. Industries are the backbone of the UK economy, influencing employment rates, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth and overall economic health.

In a world of rapid technological changes and economic uncertainties, UK industries are powerhouses of innovation and growth. The industries propelling the British economy are diverse and ever-evolving from finance and healthcare to IT and hospitality, featuring many jobs that didn’t exist 20 years ago. 

With job vacancies decreasing across many industries when compared to 2023, getting a job in your desired area is becoming more competitive than ever.

What are the different types of industries?

Industries can be categorised into several types based on their functions and contributions to the economy. These include:

1. Primary industries: Focus on the extraction and production of raw materials, such as agriculture, mining, and fishing.

2. Secondary industries: Concerned with manufacturing and processing, turning raw materials into finished goods.

3. Tertiary industries: Provide services rather than goods, including retail, entertainment, and financial services.

4. Quaternary industries: Involve knowledge-based activities like research and development (R&D), information technology, and education.

Keep reading to discover the biggest industry sectors in the UK.

Top 15 industries in the UK

1. Financial services

The finance sector, especially prominent in London, is the backbone of the UK economy, driving domestic and global finance. It includes some of the UK’s highest-paying jobs as well as career advancement in banking, investment and accounting. Sought-after skills include analytical thinking, attention to detail and strong numerical abilities, attracting ambitious individuals with a keen interest in markets.

• Jobs: Financial analyst, trader, bookkeeper.

• Salary: Ranges from £40,000 to £100,000+ depending on the role and experience.

• Example companies: Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group.

How to break into the financial services industry:

1. Networking: Be visible online with a strong LinkedIn profile. Attend industry conferences and join financial associations.

2. Internships: Secure internships to gain hands-on experience.

3. Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications like CFA or ACCA to boost your credentials.

2. Technology and IT

The technology and IT sector in the UK is a hotbed of innovation, dominated by machine learning, cybersecurity and fintech. The sector offers a high demand for skilled professionals, excellent salaries and opportunities for cutting-edge projects when working at a start-up. Key skills include programming, data analysis and adaptability, attracting curious individuals who enjoy solving complex problems and staying ahead of trends.

• Jobs: Software developer, data scientist, IT consultant.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £35,000 to £80,000+.

• Example companies: Arm Holdings, Sage Group, Deliveroo.

How to break into the technology and IT industry:

1. Online Courses: Enrol in coding boot camps or online courses to gain technical skills.

2. Hackathons: Participate in hackathons to showcase your skills and network with industry professionals.

3. Work shadowing: Shadow IT professionals to understand day-to-day tasks and challenges.

3. Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals

The UK’s healthcare and pharmaceuticals sector, including the NHS, is one of the largest employers, with both medical and administrative staff playing a crucial role in public health. Careers here offer job stability and the satisfaction of improving lives. Key skills include medical knowledge, research capabilities and a host of soft skills like being communicative and personable.

• Jobs: Doctor, nurse, midwife, psychologist, dentist, radiographer, biomedical scientist, plastic surgeon.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £25,000 to £100,000+.

• Example companies: GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca, NHS.

How to break into the healthcare and pharmaceuticals industry:

1. Training programs: Join graduate training schemes offered by the NHS or private companies.

2. Volunteer work: Volunteer at healthcare facilities to gain experience and make connections.

3. Professional associations: Become a member of professional bodies like the General Medical Council (GMC) or Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

Discover how to succeed in an interview by preparing for the most commonly-asked NHS interview questions.

4. Construction

The construction industry is vital for infrastructure development and housing. This industry shapes our infrastructure and offers diverse career paths from engineering to trades like bricklayer, electrician, carpenter and welder. It provides opportunities to work on tangible projects with significant economic impact. Key skills include project management, engineering knowledge, and problem-solving. This sector attracts hands-on, detail-orientated individuals and continues to be one of the biggest contributors to the UK economy.

• Jobs: Civil engineer, quantity surveyor, engineer, architect.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £30,000 to £70,000+.

• Example companies: Balfour Beatty, Kier Group, Laing O'Rourke.

How to break into the construction industry:

1. Apprenticeships: Enroll in apprenticeship programs to gain practical skills.

2. Certifications: Obtain certifications such as CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme).

3. Mentorship: Seek out a mentor in the industry to guide your career development.

5. Retail

Retail drives consumer spending and adapts quickly to market trends. It offers diverse roles from supermarkets to warehouses and supply chain to merchandiser. This industry is well-placed for career progression, perfect for ambitious, social and energetic school-leavers looking to carve out a career through hands-on work. Key skills include customer service, self-organisation, communication and an aptitude for market analysis. 

• Jobs: Cashier, store manager, shop assistant, security guard.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £20,000 to £60,000+.

• Example companies: Tesco, Marks & Spencer, John Lewis.

How to break into the retail industry:

1. Work experience: Gain experience through part-time retail jobs.

2. Customer service training: Complete customer service courses to enhance your skills.

3. Networking: Join retail management associations to connect with industry professionals.

*Source: BBC News

6. Education

Education shapes future generations and offers job security and development opportunities. Key skills include communication, organisation and creativity. It attracts those passionate about teaching and learning. Starting as a teaching assistant and pursuing a PGCE are key steps for career advancement.

• Jobs: Teacher, tutor, academic, counsellor, librarian.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £25,000 to £60,000+.

• Example institutions: Universities, State and Private Schools and Kindergartens.

How to break into the education industry:

1. Teaching assistant roles: Start as a teaching assistant to gain experience.

2. PGCE: Pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) for teaching qualifications.

3. Professional development: Attend workshops and training sessions to stay updated with educational trends.

7. Hospitality and tourism

The hospitality sector drives economic growth through tourism, offering dynamic, customer-focused jobs from barista and bartender to receptionist and concierge. Key skills include communication, organisation and cultural awareness. Enthusiastic, service-orientated individuals excel here. Work placements, language skills, and customer service courses are beneficial. This industry offers an array of seasonal work opportunities throughout the UK and abroad.

• Jobs: Restaurant manager, travel agent, cabin crew, event planner, waiter/waitress, chef.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £20,000 to £50,000+.

• Example companies: Whitbread, InterContinental Hotels Group, British Airways.

How to break into the hospitality and tourism industry:

1. Work placements: Participate in work placements or internships within hotels or tourism companies.

2. Customer service skills: Develop strong customer service skills through relevant courses.

3. Language skills: Learning additional languages can be beneficial in this sector.

8. Manufacturing

Manufacturing supports exports and innovation, offering executive as well as skills-based roles in cutting-edge technologies. Skills in technical expertise, problem-solving and quality control are essential. Hands-on, meticulous individuals thrive here. Technical training programs, apprenticeships, and certifications enhance career prospects.

• Jobs: Product manager, factory worker, electrical engineer.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £25,000 to £60,000+.

• Example companies: Rolls-Royce, Unilever, JCB.

How to break into the manufacturing industry:

1. Technical training: Enrol in technical training programs specific to the industry.

2. Apprenticeships: Gain practical experience through apprenticeship schemes.

3. Industry certifications: Obtain certifications in areas such as Six Sigma or lean manufacturing.

9. Energy and utilities

The energy sector includes traditional oil and gas as well as renewable energy sources like wind and solar. This industry gives power to the UK economy and leads the search for sustainable energy solutions, requiring technical expertise and analytical thinking. Careers in this area offer the challenge of innovating in renewable energy, attracting those committed to environmental issues.

• Jobs: Sustainability, data analyst, project manager.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £30,000 to £70,000+.

• Example companies: BP, Shell, National Grid.

How to break into the energy and utilities industry:

1. Industry conferences: Attend energy sector conferences and exhibitions.

2. Renewable energy courses: Take courses in renewable energy technologies.

3. Professional bodies: Join professional organisations like the Energy Institute.

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10. Transportation and Logistics

Transportation and logistics are essential for the movement of goods and people, supporting trade and daily commutes. This industry ensures supply chain efficiency, offering dynamic, fast-paced careers. A mix of skills in logistics planning, project management and IT are crucial. It attracts strategic, detail-oriented thinkers. 

• Jobs: Operations manager, HGV driver, supply chain, procurement.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £25,000 to £60,000+.

• Example companies: Royal Mail, DHL, Network Rail.

How to break into the transportation and logistics industry:

1. Supply chain courses: Complete courses in supply chain management.

2. Work experience: Gain experience through internships or entry-level positions in logistics companies.

3. Professional certifications: Obtain certifications such as CILT.

11. Creative

This sector spans a wide array of jobs from artists and dancers to actors and marketing. It influences culture and drives economic activity through media, entertainment and advertising. Careers offer creative expression and diverse projects with ample opportunity for hybrid and remote work. Key skills include creativity, communication and technical abilities. Imaginative, expressive individuals excel here, with portfolios and networking being essential.

• Jobs: Interior designer, fashion designer and graphic designer, writer, makeup artist, photographer, videographer.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £25,000 to £70,000+.

• Example companies: BBC, SocialChain, VCCP.

How to break into the creative industry:

1. Portfolio development: Create a strong portfolio showcasing your work.

2. Freelancing: Start with freelance projects to build your experience and network.

3. Creative networks: Join creative networks and attend industry events to meet professionals.

Looking for work after graduating as an international student? Explore more job opportunities for international students.

12. Agriculture and food production

This sector ensures food security and supports rural economies. Careers offer the satisfaction of sustainable food production. Key skills include agricultural knowledge and problem-solving. It attracts those passionate about sustainability and food production, with agricultural courses and internships providing a strong foundation.

• Jobs: Farmer, food scientist, product manager, agricultural manager, gardener.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £20,000 to £50,000+.

• Example companies: Associated British Foods, Arla Foods, Morrisons.

How to break into the agriculture and food production industry:

1. Agricultural courses: Study courses in agriculture or food sciences.

2. Work experience: Gain practical experience through internships or seasonal work on farms.

3. Industry events: Attend agricultural fairs and exhibitions to network with industry professionals.

13. Telecommunications

Telecommunications facilitate communication through various mediums, including the Internet and mobile networks. People working in this fast-evolving industry are vital for connecting people and businesses across the country. The sector attracts tech-savvy, adaptable individuals, with skills in network engineering, problem-solving and customer service.  

• Jobs: Network engineer, account manager, call centre worker, business development.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £30,000 to £60,000+.

• Example companies: BT Group, Vodafone, O2.

How to break into the telecommunications industry:

1. Technical training: Complete training programs in network engineering or telecommunications.

2. Certifications: Obtain certifications such as Cisco's CCNA or CompTIA Network+.

3. Internships: Gain experience through internships with telecom companies.

14. Real estate

Real estate involves the buying, selling and renting of land and properties, significantly impacting the British economy, especially in urban areas. The industry demands an aptitude for market analysis, negotiation and customer service and attracts strategic, ambitious and personable individuals. The industry also requires a host of supporting professionals and consultants.

• Jobs: Estate agent, office manager, digital marketing, credit controller, cleaner.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £25,000 to £70,000+.

• Example companies: Savills, Foxtons, Countrywide.

How to break into the real estate industry:

1. Real estate courses: Take courses in real estate to gain foundational knowledge.

2. Internships: Secure internships with real estate firms.

3. Professional organisations: Join professional bodies such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

15. Automotive

The automotive industry supports the manufacturing and export of vehicles. Careers offer technical and engineering challenges. Skills in mechanical engineering, problem-solving, and quality control are crucial. Hands-on, detail-oriented individuals thrive here. Technical training, apprenticeships, and attending trade shows can boost career prospects.

• Jobs: Mechanic, automotive engineer, production supervisor, apprentice.

• Salary: Average salary ranges from £30,000 to £70,000+.

• Example companies: Jaguar Land Rover, Mini, Nissan UK.

How to break into the automotive industry:

1. Technical training: Complete automotive engineering courses.

2. Apprenticeships: Gain experience through automotive apprenticeships.

3. Industry events: Attend automotive trade shows to network and stay updated on industry trends.

Interested in remote work? Check out top remote job trends for 2025.

Key takeaways

1. Invest in training and certifications: Enhance your credentials with industry-specific courses and certifications (e.g., CFA for finance, coding boot camps for tech).

2. Gain practical experience: Secure internships or work placements to get hands-on experience and insights into your desired industry.

3. Network actively: Attend industry events and join professional associations to build valuable connections.

4. Develop key industry skills: Focus on acquiring essential skills specific to your target industry (e.g., programming for tech, customer service for retail).

5. Stay updated on trends: Keep up with the latest industry trends and technologies through continuous learning and engagement.

Next steps?

As you take the next steps in your career journey, it's essential to reflect on your career goals and achievements. Consider where you see yourself in the future and the milestones you've already reached. If you're writing your CV for a first job, it can feel daunting, but it's an invaluable opportunity to showcase your skills, experiences, and strengths.

FAQ

What are the most competitive industries in the UK?

Financial services, technology and healthcare are among the most competitive industry sectors in the UK due to their high growth and significant economic contributions.

What are the highest-paying industries?

Financial services, technology and pharmaceuticals typically offer the highest salaries. Learn more about how to negotiate your salary during the job application process.

What industries are booming right now in the UK?

Technology, renewable energy and healthcare are currently experiencing rapid growth in the UK. These are some of the UK main industries.

What are the world’s biggest industries?

The biggest industries in the world are technology, healthcare and financial services. These are some of the largest industries by revenue and impact.

How do I choose the right industry for me?

Consider your skills, interests and the growth potential of the industry. Research and networking can also provide valuable insights. Learn more about how to enter the workforce after graduating.

What impact has AI had on the UK economy and jobs?

AI has significantly impacted various sectors by enhancing efficiency, creating new job roles and transforming traditional job functions. It has particularly influenced technology, healthcare and finance.

What is the service industry in the UK?

The service industry in the UK is a major economic driver, encompassing sectors like retail, hospitality, finance, and more. It accounts for a significant portion of the country's GDP and employment.