London is one of the world’s leading business hubs, offering unparalleled opportunities for professionals on secondments. Whether you’re relocating temporarily for a project, leadership development, or skills exchange, London’s diverse industries provide fertile ground for career growth and business expansion.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top industries and companies offering secondment opportunities in London, plus practical tips on how to apply and where to stay — ideal for corporate travellers, HR managers, and professionals planning their next assignment.
What is a Secondment?
A secondment is a temporary transfer of an employee to another role, department, or company — often in a different location — to gain new skills, support a project, or foster collaboration. For professionals on secondment to London, serviced apartments offer the perfect accommodation solution: flexible, all-inclusive, fully furnished, and conveniently located near business districts.
Why Choose London for Your Secondment?
Global Business Hub
London remains the number one global financial centre and hosts more headquarters and regional offices of Fortune Global 500 companies than any other European city. Financial and professional services generated £307 billion of output and over £110 billion in taxes in 2024.
Sources: Our Global Offer to Business 2025 – City of London; City Statistics Briefing 2025
Diverse Industries
London is Europe’s largest tech ecosystem and a global leader in fintech adoption, while its start-up ecosystem is valued at US$314 billion, the highest in Europe. This mix of finance, technology, consulting, media and life sciences makes London uniquely attractive for secondments.
Sources: Our Global Offer to Business 2025 – City of London; Startup Genome – London Ecosystem Report 2024
Connectivity
Transport for London has invested more than £12 billion in public transport upgrades over the past two years, including the rollout of 4G/5G mobile coverage across the Elizabeth Line. Combined with multiple international airports and Eurostar links, this ensures easy travel within the city and to Europe.
Sources: TfL – Investing in London’s public transport network 2025; TfL – Elizabeth Line mobile coverage complete
Cultural Richness
London hosts hundreds of world-class museums, galleries and theatres, with central districts showing sustained growth in arts, hospitality and creative employment — evidence of a vibrant city that supports genuine work-life balance.
Sources: City Hall Cultural Map; Heart of London Business Alliance – Economic & Real Estate Performance
Top Industries for Secondments in London
1. Financial Services and Fintech
London is Europe’s financial capital, with the City of London and Canary Wharf housing major banks, investment firms, insurance companies, and fintech startups.
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Key Companies: Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group, Revolut, Monzo, TransferWise
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Secondment Roles: Risk management, compliance, investment analysis, software development
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Why Second? To gain exposure to complex financial markets, new regulatory environments, or fintech innovation.
Where to Stay:
Opt for serviced apartments in Canary Wharf, Tower Bridge, or Liverpool Street for quick access to financial institutions. These areas have excellent transport links to the rest of London and a high concentration of corporate amenities.
2. Professional Services and Consulting
The Big Four accounting firms and global consultancies maintain large offices in London, offering secondments in audit, tax, advisory, and management consulting.
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Key Companies: PwC, Deloitte, EY, KPMG, McKinsey & Company, BCG, Accenture
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Secondment Roles: Project management, strategy development, client advisory
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Why Second? To work on diverse client projects and broaden industry expertise.
Where to Stay:
Many consultancies cluster around London Bridge, Waterloo, and Westminster. Serviced apartments here offer quick commutes to client sites across the city while keeping you close to major rail hubs.
3. Legal Services
London is a global legal center, especially for international law, corporate law, and dispute resolution.
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Key Firms: Clifford Chance, Allen & Overy, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer
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Secondment Roles: Corporate legal counsel, litigation support, compliance officers
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Why Second? Gain experience in international law and high-profile cases.
Where to Stay:
Consider serviced apartments in Holborn, Chancery Lane, or Farringdon — all close to the Inns of Court, major law firms, and excellent dining options for client meetings.
4. Technology and Digital Media
Tech hubs such as Shoreditch and Old Street host startups and large tech companies working in AI, cybersecurity, and digital media.
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Key Companies: Google, Facebook, Amazon, Bloomberg, startups in fintech, health tech
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Secondment Roles: Software engineers, product managers, data analysts
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Why Second? To engage with cutting-edge tech developments and innovation culture.
Where to Stay:
Serviced apartments in Shoreditch, Old Street, or King’s Cross put you right in the heart of London’s “Tech City,” surrounded by creative workspaces, cafés, and transport connections.
5. Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences
London is home to leading pharma companies and medical research institutions, providing secondments in R&D, regulatory affairs, and clinical trials.
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Key Companies: GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), AstraZeneca, Pfizer
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Secondment Roles: Research scientists, regulatory specialists, project leads
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Why Second? Access to world-class research facilities and global health initiatives.
Where to Stay:
If your secondment is near research hubs such as White City (Imperial College London) or Camden (Wellcome Trust), choose serviced apartments in Paddington, Bloomsbury, or Hammersmith for easy travel to labs and medical campuses.
6. Media, Advertising and Creative Industries
The creative sector thrives in London with opportunities in advertising agencies, TV and film production, and digital marketing.
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Key Companies: BBC, ITV, Saatchi & Saatchi, WPP Group
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Secondment Roles: Creative directors, media planners, content strategists
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Why Second? To develop creative campaigns in a globally influential market.
Where to Stay:
Choose serviced apartments in Soho, Fitzrovia, or White City — close to media houses, production studios, and creative agencies, as well as lively after-work scenes.
How to Apply for Secondments in London
1. Check Your Company’s Internal Programs
Many multinational companies have formal secondment programs or talent exchange initiatives. Speak with your HR or global mobility team to explore available options.
2. Leverage Professional Networks
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Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with London-based professionals and recruiters.
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Join industry groups and attend relevant virtual or in-person events.
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Seek referrals from colleagues who have completed secondments.
3. Direct Applications to Companies
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Visit the careers pages of target companies.
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Apply for secondment, internship, or temporary project roles explicitly mentioning your interest in secondment.
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Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your adaptability and international experience.
4. Use Recruitment Agencies Specialising in Secondments
Some recruitment agencies specialise in temporary assignments and secondments — especially in London’s finance, legal, and consulting sectors.
5. Work with Corporate Travel and Relocation Specialists
For the accommodation and logistics side, partnering with serviced apartment agencies like Checkin Apartments ensures a smooth stay in London — convenient, safe, and cost-effective.
Useful Tips & Resources for Professionals Planning a Secondment to London
Start Early with Visa & Immigration Requirements
- Check whether you need a work visa or intra-company transfer visa.
- Useful links: UK Government Work Visas, Skilled Worker Visa Guidance.
Secure Accommodation Before You Arrive
- Book serviced apartments in London close to your workplace for convenience and cost control.
Understand Tax, Benefits & Expenses
- Clarify with your HR or mobility team how UK tax, NI, and per-diem allowances will be handled.
- HMRC’s site offers employer/employee guidance: UK HMRC – Tax on Foreign Employees.
Healthcare Registration
- If you’re staying more than six months, register with a local GP for NHS care.
- Resource: NHS Services for New Arrivals.
Transport & Commuting
- Purchase an Oyster card or set up contactless payment for the Underground, buses and trains.
- Download TfL’s free app: Transport for London – Journey Planner.
Networking & Professional Development
- Join UK branches of your professional body or attend London business meetups.
- Useful hubs: London Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Meetup.com – Business Events London.
Co-Working & Business Facilities
- If you need flexible office space, consider WeWork, Regus or UK-based co-working networks.
- Resource: Startups Magazine – Best Co-Working Spaces in London 2025.
Culture & Lifestyle
- Explore London’s museums, galleries and events for a richer secondment experience.
- Resource: Visit London – What’s On.
Next Steps: Planning a Successful Secondment in London
Secondments in London unlock exciting career opportunities across diverse industries. By understanding where the demand is highest, how to apply effectively, and where to stay, professionals can make the most of their temporary assignments — while enjoying the city’s rich culture and excellent serviced apartment options.
If you’re planning a secondment to London and need expert advice on accommodation and corporate travel arrangements, reach out to us at Checkin Apartments. We specialise in seamless stays for business travellers like you.
