In the UK, approximately 34 million people over the age of 16 are employed¹, but which are the happiest industries to work in and how are employees supported in their jobs?

Adobe Express has conducted an extensive study², to find out the pros and cons of each industry, and how Brits are pursuing their dream roles and a happy work life.

More than a third (36%) of people in the UK are currently in their dream role, and 68% feel fulfilled about their job. However, there are many still seeking the perfect career, with 14% claiming they aren’t fulfilled by their work and 28% even saying they would leave their position within the next 12 months if a new opportunity arose.

In terms of age ranges, 50% of 18–24-year-olds feel that they are already in their dream roles, compared to 11% of 45-54-year-olds and 7% of 55-64-year-olds. The most fulfilled age range is 35-44 year-olds, with 19% claiming they are extremely fulfilled with their current work, 17% of 45-54-year-olds admit they are only slightly fulfilled.

At any workplace, a supporting company or employer can make a real difference to a positive and progressive outlook. In fact, 34% say work perks and benefits keep people motivated, whilst flexible working arrangements are the key to a good work-life balance for 28%. 21% say that their workplace supports their staff with new innovative tools and ways of working such as AI.

The happiest industries to work in

When it comes to job satisfaction, Information Technology stands out as the happiest industry to work in. According to the study, 59% of people in IT say they’re already in their dream role more than any other sector. Whether it’s the flexibility, fast-paced innovation, or strong career progression, IT seems to offer the right mix to keep professionals engaged and fulfilled.

Other top-performing industries include Business Consulting and Management, Engineering and Manufacturing, and Property and Construction all with 54% of workers in their dream jobs. On the flip side, industries like Media and Internet, Recruitment and HR, and Public Services have more people still searching for their ideal roles. While some sectors, such as Science, Pharmaceuticals, and Law Enforcement, lead in fulfilment, others like Marketing and PR see high turnover intentions, with nearly a third considering a switch within the year. But one thing’s clear: in the current landscape, IT is setting the benchmark for career happiness.

The happiest UK cities to work in

• The city with the highest percentage of people working in their dream roles is Manchester (46%)
• The city with the least amount of people in their dream roles is Edinburgh (33%)
• 43% of people in Birmingham don’t have a dream role, whilst 13% of Londoners are undecided on what their dream role is
• 32% of people in Sheffield would leave their roles in the next 12 months if a new opportunity arose
• 40% of people in Belfast feel supported at work by innovative tools and ways of working such as AI
• 43% of Glaswegians are currently extremely fulfilled in their role, the highest out of all cities, compared to 10% of Bristolians, who claim they are completely unfulfilled with their work
• 80% of people in Belfast would leave their current role for a significant salary increase, whilst 60% are looking for more meaningful work, wanting to know their career is making a difference
• 29% of people in Edinburgh say they don’t have the resources to find their dream role

Adobe Express has provided tips to people in the UK support when finding their dream role:

Clearly define your goals: The first step should involve identifying your interests, skills, and values. What kind of work makes you feel the most fulfilled? And is there anything currently stopping you from making the switch to your dream career? Understanding key factors like this will help give you direction and narrow your search.

Refine your CV: Whether you’re applying for a role in a familiar field or looking to break into a new industry, it’s wise to give your CV a refresh before sending it to potential employers. Make sure it clearly highlights your experience, emphasising your unique skills as an employee.

Tailor every application: No matter the industry, it’s important to tailor your application to the specific role you’re applying for. Make sure to showcase your passion for the position, detailing how your skills align with their unique needs.

Get interview-ready: Preparation is key when it comes to interviews, so make sure you’ve researched the company’s mission as well as any recent industry developments.

Stay flexible and persistent: Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, you’ll need to stay persistent in the pursuit of your dream career. Finding the right opportunity can take time, so don’t let setbacks derail you. Commit to learning and adapting your approach as you go.

For further inspiration on how to make a dream role a reality, head to Adobe Express’ blog page The Happiest Industries in the UK | Adobe Express where there are resources on CVs, cover letters, digital portfolios and more.

Sources

1. https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-9366/
2. Adobe Express conducted a national survey via TLF. The survey polled 1,000 UK adults between 24.04.2025 and 01.05.2025. The questions in the survey are displayed throughout the above content, and the data includes splits across age groups, gender, city and career industry. Please contact [email protected] for any data queries.