More than a third (36%) of people in the UK are currently in their dream role, and 68% feel fulfilled about their job. However, there are many still seeking the perfect career, with 14% claiming they aren’t fulfilled by their work and 29% in the marketing sector saying they would leave their position within the next 12 months if a new opportunity arose.

That’s according to Adobe Express, which conducted a study to find out the pros and cons of each industry, and how Brits are pursuing their dream roles and a happy work life.

In terms of age ranges, 50% of 18–24-year-olds feel that they are already in their dream roles, compared to 11% of 45-54-year-olds and 7% of 55-64-year-olds. The most fulfilled age range is 35-44 year-olds, with 19% claiming they are extremely fulfilled with their current work, 17% of 45-54-year-olds admit they are only slightly fulfilled.

At any workplace, a supporting company or employer can make a real difference to a positive and progressive outlook. In fact, 34% say work perks and benefits keep people motivated, whilst flexible working arrangements are the key to a good work-life balance for 28%. 21% say that their workplace supports their staff with new innovative tools and ways of working such as AI.

Adobe’s study reveals the industries that has the most people in their dream roles, as well as the best support:

• The industry with the highest percentage of people working their dream roles is Information Technology (59%), followed by Business Consulting and Management (54%), Engineering and Manufacturing (54%) and Property and Construction (54%)
• The industries with employees still searching for their dream roles are Media and internet (60%), Recruitment and HR (50%) and Public services and administration (38%).
• 29% of people working in Marketing, Advertising and PR are likely to switch roles in the next 12 months for the right opportunity, the highest out of all industries.
• A third of workers (33%) in Science and Pharmaceuticals and Law Enforcement and Security say they are extremely fulfilled by their work, the highest percentage out of all industries
• 43% of people working in Marketing, advertising and PR feel supported by new innovative tools such as AI
• 59% in business, consulting and management feel supported by their work perks and benefits
• 40% of workers in Media and Internet said further support would help them achieve their career ambitions.

The happiest UK cities to work in

• The city with the highest percentage of people working in their dream roles is Manchester (46%)
• The city with the least amount of people in their dream roles is Edinburgh (33%)
• 43% of people in Birmingham don’t have a dream role, whilst 13% of Londoners are undecided on what their dream role is
• 32% of people in Sheffield would leave their roles in the next 12 months if a new opportunity arose
• 40% of people in Belfast feel supported at work by innovative tools and ways of working such as AI
• 43% of Glaswegians are currently extremely fulfilled in their role, the highest out of all cities, compared to 10% of Bristolians, who claim they are completely unfulfilled with their work
• 80% of people in Belfast would leave their current role for a significant salary increase, whilst 60% are looking for more meaningful work, wanting to know their career is making a difference
• 29% of people in Edinburgh say they don’t have the resources to find their dream role

Adobe Express conducted a national survey via TLF. The survey polled 1,000 UK adults between 24.04.2025 and 01.05.2025.

Photo by Rodeo Project Management Software on Unsplash