JOB seekers in Essex will have the opportunity to discover and meet a wealth of local companies all looking to recruit at a series of Essex Jobs Fairs taking place across the county this March.

The Essex Jobs Fairs, the first in a series of employment-boosting events planned for 2017 by the Essex Employment and Skills Board (Essex ESB), will take place at the Harvey Shopping Centre, Harlow on 7 March; Eastgate Shopping Centre, Basildon on 9 March and Intu Lakeside Shopping Centre in Thurrock on 10 March.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Infrastructure and Partnerships said: “These Jobs Fairs bring local job seekers face to face with Essex employers who are actively looking to recruit.

“From young people just starting out in their working lives to those looking for a career change, the diversity of companies attending will ensure a range of exciting opportunities for all.”

Research by Essex ESB highlighted seven priority sectors which are set for growth in Essex but which are suffering skills shortages – Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering; Care; Construction; Finance & Insurance; Health; IT, Digital & Creative; and Logistics. In hosting these fairs, and guaranteeing free stands for organisations with job vacancies in these sectors, Essex ESB is looking to boost the county‘s future growth and prosperity.

Suzanne Jude, Chairman of ESB said: “The Essex Jobs Fairs are a great way for businesses to promote themselves to fresh audiences, as well as amongst their business peers, so if you’re looking to recruit we’d certainly recommend booking a free stand. Places are filling up fast as organisations across the county make the most of this opportunity to get out of the office and meet with hundreds of job seekers face to face. ”

All are welcome to the Jobs Fairs and entrance is free – for more information on attending or exhibiting at the Essex Jobs Fairs, visit: http://essexpartnership.org/content/esb-essex-jobs-fairs or call 07811 195282