Demand has been highest for specialists in cyber security and development, with both large employers and SMEs driving growth.
The latest Robert Walters UK Jobs Index has revealed that IT vacancies have risen across the UK, with the number of jobs available in the second quarter of 2017 up 4% compared to the same time last year.
While economic and political uncertainty has led employers in certain sectors to take a more cautious approach to hiring, tech professionals have enjoyed ongoing demand for their skills with cyber security and development being key skills which are highly sought after.
Ahsan Iqbal, Associate Director, comments: “IT professionals have been in high demand from employers for some time, and this trend has continued throughout 2017.”
“The recent Wannacry cyber attack has once again highlighted the importance of robust cyber security systems, and specialists in this area are highly sought after by employers.“
“In addition, ongoing digitalisation projects from employers across a range of industries are driving demand for developers.”
“IT professionals specialising in these high demand areas are in a strong position to command high salaries and generous benefits packages, with many receiving multiple job offers simultaneously. Employers looking to secure top calibre professionals need to move rapidly when recruiting, in addition to taking a progressive approach to work life balance initiatives.
GROWING TECH INDUSTRY DRIVES DEMAND FOR IT PROFESSIONALS
In addition to large firms looking to recruit IT professionals, SMEs and startups are playing a critical role in driving demand.
Urban centres such as London, Birmingham and Manchester have developed into major hubs for tech firms, which in turn are driving demand for IT professionals.
Ahsan Iqbal continues: “Large multinational firms are responsible for creating steady demand for IT specialists, particularly at large shared service centres providing technical support across a range of disciplines including cyber security and systems development.”
“This demand is supplemented by expanding startup communities in major cities. These businesses are often attractive to tech specialists, offering the opportunity to work on new projects, achieve rapid career development and embracing innovations in work life balance such as remote working.”