The public sector is facing significant challenges in finding the right tech talent. This is especially true for Digital, Data, and Technology (DDaT) roles. DDaT roles are in high demand by the UK government, and reports show that 37% of DDaT recruitment fails.
Technology drives business growth and change in many ways. It includes automation, software engineering, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. But to modernise and improve, it’s the right talent with the right evolving skillsets that will deliver scale.
At Salt, our team of Public Sector recruitment experts have examined the tech skills across the market and can see how a focus on key technology skills can help drive success and modernisation.
More than just technical skills
While AI, cloud and cyber security are highly sought-after skills, it is equally essential to find skills like communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities. Recognising the development of both is vital to excel in today’s competitive job market and public sector recruitment strategies.
“People skills are still proven as a number one skillset when scaling or transforming. A positive attitude toward learning is something we also look for when building our talent pools for the public sector. From junior to mid-level this allows Central Government departments to scale their teams at speed” Damian Hayes – Business Development Director, Central Government – Salt UK
Technical skills in demand for the UK Public Sector
The recent £32 million investment in AI projects shows a strong commitment to using technology for real-world benefits. This includes reducing train delays and speeding up prescription deliveries.
To effectively navigate transformation projects within the UK public sector recruitment, a blend of specialised roles and technical skills is essential. The focus is growing on professionals in AI, Cyber Security, Data, and Cloud. They are essential for any digital initiative.
Here are some skills that are growing in the tech industry:
Generative AI transforms government and public sector services
Employers are expecting more tech professionals to know AI frameworks. The demand for these skills in the public sector is growing, and as a result talent is becoming more competitive. The focus for the public sector is clear. AI isn’t only about innovation, it’s about tangible improvements in public services. The pool of experts with AI skills across industries has expanded by 68% this year alone.
Mike Snow, Public Sector Practice Director at Salt UK, highlights the challenges that come with this growth: “AI is transforming public sector services in the UK, and we’re seeing a significant increase in demand for AI professionals. Government bodies are piloting AI projects, but finding the right talent is critical for these initiatives to succeed. As recruiters, it’s our job to ensure that organisations have access to the skills needed to drive these projects forward.”
Cloud computing skills brings scalable solutions and data expertise
Many people consider knowledge of cloud computing important for tech hires. Including platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. Bringing this expertise into the Public Sector helps create scalable systems. Creating new efficiencies and the ability to adapt to new demands.
The number of LinkedIn professionals listing ‘Cloud Computing’ as a skill has increased by 14% this year. Additionally, top skills among Data Science experts include Software Development (34%), SQL (27%), and Linux (22%).
Cybersecurity analyts and specialists lead the way to secure networks
Cybersecurity is always a top concern. Analysts must be skilled in Linux to manage secure systems and know cloud technologies to protect data in scalable settings. On LinkedIn, the number of professionals with ‘Cybersecurity’ skills has increased by 39% this year. The most sought-after specific skills are Network Security (30%), Information Security (26%), and Linux (24%).
Data governance and machine learning turn data into wisdom
Professionals with expertise in SQL, analyzing data, and machine learning are key for establishing frameworks. Ensuring the accurate and secure availability of data. LinkedIn has seen a 54% increase this year in members listing ‘Data Science’ as a skill. These data science experts often also have strong capabilities in Python (72%), analysing data (57%), and Machine Learning (55%).
By combining these roles and skills, the UK public sector can advance projects. These projects will provide high-quality, secure, and user-friendly services to the public.
