As we move further into 2025, the recruitment landscape across the Legal and Construction sectors continues to evolve, shaped by economic pressures, regulatory changes, and shifting candidate expectations. Here’s a snapshot of the key trends we’re seeing at ground level.
Legal Sector: A Focus on Specialist Talent and Flexibility
Demand Remains Steady but Targeted
Despite broader economic uncertainty, recruitment in the legal sector remains resilient. Demand is strong for specialist roles—particularly in areas such as regulatory compliance, data privacy, ESG, and employment law. As regulatory frameworks evolve and clients become more risk-aware, law firms and in-house legal teams alike are seeking professionals with niche expertise.
Rise in In-House Opportunities
One of the most notable shifts has been the continued growth of in-house legal teams. Many organisations are investing in building internal legal capacity to reduce reliance on external counsel. This has created a competitive market for mid-level to senior solicitors, especially those with commercial and contractual expertise.
Flexibility is No Longer a Perk—It’s a Standard
Hybrid and remote working options have become expected rather than exceptional. Firms that offer flexible working structures are consistently attracting and retaining top talent, while those sticking to rigid office-based models are finding it harder to fill key roles.
Junior Talent Pipeline Challenges
There’s an ongoing challenge in developing junior talent, with many firms reporting gaps in post-qualification experience. The pandemic’s disruption to training and mentoring is still being felt, and firms are increasingly looking for creative ways to bridge the skills gap—whether through structured mentorships, internal secondments, or targeted lateral hires.
Construction Sector: Skills Shortages and Project-Driven Hiring
Project Demand Driving Recruitment
Recruitment in the construction sector is being fuelled by a strong pipeline of infrastructure, residential, and commercial developments—particularly in urban centres. This project-based hiring model means there’s continued demand for site managers, quantity surveyors, estimators, and planning specialists.
Acute Skills Shortages Persist
The skills shortage remains one of the sector’s most pressing issues. Experienced tradespeople, project managers, and technical professionals are in short supply, with competition fierce across both permanent and contract markets. Employers are having to think more strategically, offering better pay, improved conditions, and training pathways to secure long-term staffing solutions.
Increased Focus on Sustainability and Technology
Sustainability credentials and digital fluency are increasingly important in construction hiring. Professionals with experience in green building practices, BIM (Building Information Modelling), and smart infrastructure projects are in high demand as the industry moves towards net-zero goals and tech-integrated planning.
Compliance and Safety Recruitment on the Rise
With greater regulatory oversight and a spotlight on safety post-Grenfell, there’s a sharp increase in roles focused on compliance, health & safety, and building standards. Candidates with qualifications in CDM regulations, fire safety, and quality assurance are seeing growing opportunities across public and private sector projects.
What This Means for Employers and Candidates
For employers, the key to successful recruitment in both sectors lies in being proactive and flexible. Competitive salary benchmarking, strong EVP (Employer Value Proposition), and streamlined hiring processes are essential in today’s market.
For candidates, opportunities abound—but standing out requires more than just technical skills. Soft skills like adaptability, communication, and a willingness to engage with evolving technologies are becoming increasingly valued.
Looking Ahead
As 2025 progresses, we expect continued demand for high-calibre professionals in both legal and construction markets, but securing talent will require forward-thinking recruitment strategies. Whether you’re looking to scale your team or take the next step in your career, our specialist consultants are here to help.
Get in touch to discuss your hiring needs or explore our latest candidate portfolios.