Nearly half of employers plan to expand technology teams as demand for AI grows – Robert Half

Nearly half of employers plan to increase permanent technology headcount before the end of the year, research from Robert Half found.

47% plan to expand their permanent technology teams, while 25% expect to increase contract and project-based hiring.

Cyber security was the most sought-after skill, cited by 54% of employers. 

This was followed by agentic AI at 50%, generative AI at 48%, and cloud and business intelligence skills at 44% each.

45% of technology professionals said they expect to develop new AI skills.

More than half said AI had reduced the time spent on routine tasks, while 37% said their roles had become more strategic.

Matt Weston, senior managing director, UK and Ireland at Robert Half, said: “Technology remains one of the most active areas of hiring in the UK labour market, with nearly half of employers planning to grow their permanent technology teams before the end of the year. 

“Businesses continue to invest heavily in cyber security, cloud infrastructure and artificial intelligence, but they’re not simply looking for more people.