The city of London is not only the capital of the UK, it is the largest city in Europe. With over 12 million people living in the Greater London area, the city has an economy larger than most small countries.
Not only does London have one of the largest economies in the world, its financial sector is second only to that of New York in terms of its total value. As well as several large banks and investment firms in the City of London, the Canary Wharf development has attracted inward investment from countries around the world.
Employment opportunities exist with a number of the world's leading banks, including Barclay's HSBC, Standard Chartered and Natwest. Investment firms such as Nomura and accountancy specialists such as PriceWaterhouseCoopers are also major employers of financial staff. Amongst the vacancies advertised by local recruitment agencies include those for traders, stock brokers, financial analysts, accountants and investment specialists.
Despite the relative success of London's financial sector, the recent banking crash and tighter regulation from the UK government has led to many people in the financial sector losing their jobs. Whilst the worst of the problems seems to be over, levels of employment are nowhere near the level of 2007. Applicants will need to demonstrate superb numeracy skills, excellent qualifications and a track-record in finance to be even considered for the best jobs in London.