Manchester is one of the UK’s most vibrant cities, known not just for its rich history and culture, but also as a powerhouse of business, innovation, and education. With a large student population and an ever-growing economy, the city offers exciting career opportunities for graduates across sectors. However, breaking into the job market can be challenging without the right guidance or connections. That’s where recruitment agencies come in.
Graduate recruitment agencies in Manchester bridge the gap between recent university graduates and potential employers. Whether you’re looking for roles in finance, marketing, tech, engineering, or the creative industries, these agencies can help you find the right opportunity. Below are ten of the best graduate recruitment agencies in Manchester that consistently deliver results.
1. GradTouch
Specialism: Graduate jobs, internships, and entry-level positions
Website: www.gradtouch.com
GradTouch is a Manchester-based agency focused entirely on helping graduates transition into the workforce. They work closely with employers who are looking for fresh talent and provide real insights into company cultures. Their platform also features graduate guides, salary insights, and personal development resources—making it an all-in-one career platform for graduates.
2. Give A Grad A Go
Specialism: Graduate roles in marketing, sales, finance, and tech
Website: www.giveagradago.com
Although headquartered in London, Give A Grad A Go has a strong presence in Manchester and works with clients across the North West. Known for matching graduates with high-growth start-ups and SMEs, they offer career coaching, CV support, and role-specific preparation, giving new grads a real edge.
3. Milkround
Specialism: Graduate schemes, internships, and entry-level roles
Website: www.milkround.com
While Milkround is primarily a job board, it acts as a gateway to many graduate recruiters based in Manchester. With thousands of job listings and application tips, Milkround partners with recruitment firms and companies directly to bring a constant stream of opportunities for graduates.
4. We Are Aspire
Specialism: Media, marketing, digital, and sales roles
Website: www.weareaspire.com
Aspire is a leading recruitment agency that focuses on digital and media sectors. With a dedicated team in Manchester, they help graduates find roles in fast-paced industries such as advertising, PR, digital marketing, and publishing. Their consultative approach ensures that candidates receive one-on-one attention.
5. Sellick Partnership
Specialism: Finance, legal, HR, and public sector
Website: www.sellickpartnership.co.uk
With their headquarters in Manchester, Sellick Partnership is a reputable firm that helps place graduates into roles in the professional services and public sector. They also host events, webinars, and employability workshops aimed at early-career professionals.
6. Sparta Global
Specialism: IT and technology
Website: www.spartaglobal.com
For graduates looking to break into tech, Sparta Global offers a unique graduate programme. They recruit candidates with or without a technical background, train them in areas like software engineering, DevOps, and business analysis, and place them with leading UK employers. Their Manchester office plays a key role in serving clients in the North.
7. Buchanan Graduates
Specialism: Graduate recruitment, sales, and consultancy
Website: www.buchanangraduates.com
Buchanan Graduates is known for launching graduates into sales, recruitment, and consultancy roles. They have a strong foothold in Manchester and regularly partner with businesses seeking ambitious young professionals. Their end-to-end service includes career advice, interview coaching, and onboarding support.
8. Hays Graduate Recruitment
Specialism: Multi-sector – construction, finance, education, IT, marketing
Website: www.hays.co.uk
Hays is one of the largest recruitment agencies in the UK with a solid base in Manchester. While they cover all levels of employment, their graduate division offers wide-ranging opportunities across sectors. Their consultants offer valuable industry insights, salary expectations, and progression pathways.
9. The Candidate
Specialism: Marketing, digital, analytics, and creative roles
Website: www.thecandidate.co.uk
The Candidate is a Manchester-based agency that specialises in digital marketing and creative roles. They actively work with graduates and junior talent to match them with forward-thinking agencies and companies. Their focus on cultural fit and career growth makes them especially appealing to creative graduates.
10. Venturi Group
Specialism: Tech and IT recruitment
Website: www.venturi-group.com
Venturi is an IT recruitment agency with a growing reputation in Manchester. They regularly hire for graduate roles in software development, cloud computing, and cyber security. For computer science graduates or those seeking tech careers, Venturi’s connections with leading tech employers offer a strong launching pad.
Find more about graduate recruitment in the UK.
Tips for working with graduate recruitment agencies
Register early: The earlier you register with agencies (even before you graduate), the better your chances of being considered for roles immediately.
Tailor your CV: Each agency or recruiter may have different expectations. Ask for feedback and tailor your CV for specific industries.
Be proactive: Stay in touch with your recruitment consultant. Express your interests, follow up on leads, and show that you’re eager.
Prepare for interviews: Many agencies offer mock interviews or prep sessions. Take advantage of these to refine your answers and build confidence.
Stay open-minded: While you may have a specific role in mind, agencies often suggest roles you haven’t considered that could fit your skills and goals.
Manchester’s job market is dynamic, competitive, and full of promise for recent graduates. Working with the right recruitment agency can give you access to opportunities you might not find on your own. Whether you’re aiming for a creative career in media or a tech role in a fast-growing start-up, the agencies listed above are some of the best places to start your journey.
By leveraging their expertise, networks, and guidance, you can confidently navigate the post-graduation job search and land a role that matches your ambitions. Take the time to explore your options, polish your application materials, and make meaningful connections—your future career in Manchester could start with a single conversation.
