After a tumultuous 2023 characterized by layoffs at major tech companies, 2024 may bring a more positive outlook for IT professionals in the U.K. Those in the tech industry seeking new opportunities may find a high demand for expertise in artificial intelligence and cloud technology, as well as a need for soft skills like communication and team management.
Is there a shortage of IT skills in the UK?
There has been a persistent shortage of IT skills in the U.K. Despite the two million people working in the tech sector, the demand for skilled professionals remains high.
According to U.K. government data, the level of “skills-shortage vacancies” in the information and communications sector has increased significantly from 25% in 2017 to 43% in 2022. The shortage of IT skills continues to be a pressing issue, with surveys showing that a large number of businesses struggle to find qualified digital workers.
What are the most in-demand tech jobs and skills in the UK for 2024?
Most in-demand tech jobs in the UK
Six tech jobs made LinkedIn’s list of the top 25 most in-demand jobs in the UK for 2024, including roles like artificial intelligence engineer, security operations center analyst, and data engineer.
The most in-demand technical skills for 2024 in the UK include cloud computing, Microsoft Dynamics, SAP, Python, and SQL.
What is the highest paying IT job in the UK?
The Chief Information Officer tops the list of highest paying IT jobs in the UK, with salaries ranging from £105,000 to £176,000. Other roles like Chief Technology Officers and Chief Information Security Officers also offer competitive pay.
What’s the outlook for IT jobs in the UK in 2024 and beyond?
There will continue to be a high demand for skilled technology resources in the UK, driven largely by SME businesses investing in tech development. Emerging trends like fractional working, where individuals work on multiple part-time assignments, may become more common in the future.
What tech skills should you learn in 2024?
Skills like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity are expected to remain in demand over the next few years. Soft skills such as communication, stakeholder management, and strategic thinking are also important for tech workers looking to future-proof their careers.
