The financial services sector has seen the dramatic growth of both home-based institutions and new national and international companies. The region has a well developed administrative base, offering an extensive range of support services and a varied and skilled supply of staff. Today, around 232,000 people (15% of the regional workforce) are employed in the region's banking, insurance and financial services businesses. The South West benefits from its proximity to London, one of the three international global financial services centres. This closeness has led to significant growth in the sector as many companies chose to move their operations to locations such as Bournemouth, Bristol and Swindon. Interaction between universities and the sector includes industry-specific and related courses, employers’ training activities, research, consultancy and other collaborative activities.
Follow the links to read more about university centres of expertise and success stories of university and business collaboration in the financial services sector. Further information about higher education and the sector can be taken from the financial services sector plan.
Financial Services Skills Council South West