IT job roles up 12% in UK

The number of IT jobs is on the rise in the UK. In total, the IT sector saw job roles increase by 12% in the first quarter of 2017, compared to the same time last year. Software engineers and developers were particularly sought after, accounting for 14% of new vacancies, according to the Robert Walters UK Jobs Index.

Ahsan Iqbal, Associate Director, Robert Walters said: “The UK it sector has enjoyed strong steady growth over the past several years and was largely resistant to the slowdown in hiring seen by other sectors in the midst of political and economic uncertainty last year. However, the start of 2017 has nevertheless seen a significant increase in IT hiring, with developers particularly sought after. Demand from startup firms in fin tech has played a significant role in this, in addition to large established companies investing heavily in cyber security.”

He added: “With several high profile data breaches over the past few years involving prominent companies, employers are increasingly recognising the importance of a robust cyber security function and are prepared to invest in securing top talent in this field.”

In addition to the need for IT professionals with strong technical skills, the demand for mid-level managers also increased, accounting for 4% of advertised roles. Iqbal said: “IT managers with effective communication and stakeholder management skills are in particularly high demand.

“As effective cyber security policies become an increasingly high priority, the ability for IT teams to liaise with other areas of the business to develop effective strategies is becoming increasingly vital.

“As a result, IT managers who can demonstrate the ability to collaborate with other teams and develop strong internal working relationships are highly sought after, with employers prepared to offer generous salaries to secure top talent.”