Navigating the Marketing Job Landscape: A Recap of 2023 and Insights into 2024

​In the fast-paced world of marketing, staying ahead of industry trends is crucial for both candidates and clients. As we wrap up the year, it's time to unwrap the insights that defined Marketing and Client-Side recruitment in 2023. One of our Senior Consultants, Hilary Williams, here at Stopgap takes us on a journey through the highs, lows, and unexpected turns of the past year, providing not just a recap but offering a glimpse into what awaits in the Marketing landscape of 2024.

Reflecting on the Last 6 Months: Job Trends and In-Demand Roles

Over the past six months, client-side roles have seen a shift towards permanency, with a notable increase in contract opportunities to meet short-term demands. The cost-of-living crisis has unfortunately led to a surge in redundancies, particularly affecting mid-senior level positions. However, amidst the challenges, the digital sector has thrived, with an increase in roles such as Digital Marketing Managers, Ecommerce specialists, and the emergence of MarTech Managers focusing on data governance and targeted messaging.

Touching on the traditional front, roles in Branding, Marketing Coordination, and Communications have continued to be prevalent. The marketing landscape has undeniably evolved over the past year, requiring professionals to navigate the digital and traditional realms seamlessly.

Looking Forward: The Next 6 Months

Looking forward to the next six months, I believe there will be a continuation of the status quo. The cost-of-living crisis seems poised to maintain its grip, hinting at the persistence of redundancies. However, the digital sector stands resilient, offering growth opportunities and a continued emphasis on elevating online presence. As the market evolves, so do the demands on marketing professionals, with digital roles expected to remain at the forefront.​

Guidance Amidst Economic Downturn and Redundancies

In times of economic downturn and organisational restructuring, my advice to fellow marketing professionals is to keep your LinkedIn profile meticulously updated. Ensure that you align every detail with your resume. For those navigating redundancies, proactively signal your availability on LinkedIn, leverage the #opentowork feature, and engage with recruiters and industry contacts. Networking, both virtually and in-person, remains as a key strategy, alongside monitoring job alerts for timely responses.

Transitioning into Marketing/Client-Side Roles

For those considering a career transition or contemplating a leap from agency to client-side, I emphasise strategic planning. Identify roles that seamlessly integrate with your existing skillsets and sector familiarity. Be flexible, considering both contract and permanent positions, and be willing to explore lateral moves. Sometimes, taking a step back can be a calculated move to establish a foothold and progress from there.

2024 Recruitment Landscape: Hot Jobs and Emerging Trends

Turning my gaze towards 2024, I foresee the continued dominance of digital and growth-centric roles. Positions dedicated to enhancing online presence, boosting sales, and fortifying brand awareness are expected to maintain their allure. The rise of MarTech roles, delving into data for refined customer understanding and targeted messaging, emerges as a defining trend with the potential to revolutionise ROI and overarching company goals.

Entering 2024, equipped with the insights gained from 2023, the marketing and client-side recruitment terrain presents a compelling mix of challenges and opportunities. Unveil the potential, welcome the changes, and allow the journey into the upcoming year to light the way ahead.