Recruitment sector must play key role in government’s AI action plan, says APSCo

The Government’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Opportunities Action Plan has outlined opportunities to boost the UK’s economy, but the Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo) has stressed the need for the recruitment sector to play a central role to ensure success.

Shazia Imtiaz, general counsel at APSCo, welcomed several aspects of the plan, including the creation of AI Growth Zones and research into skills gaps.

She said: “It’s encouraging to see the many plans outlined by the Government to boost the UK’s AI prowess, and we welcome many of the recommendations.”

Imtiaz also praised the proposal to explore new immigration routes to attract highly skilled AI professionals, describing it as a move that “will deliver tangible results.”

However, APSCo emphasised that staffing companies bring unique value to the table.

These organisations, equipped with detailed insights and statistics, can identify staffing gaps, highlight transferable skills, and offer guidance on improving diversity within the workforce.

She explained: “They are the conduit between workers, employers, and, more often than not, education.”

“That means that they are best placed to help steer changes to education pathways and influence the changes to lifelong learning programmes to ensure they best meet the needs of candidates and businesses alike.”

APSCo called for the Government to collaborate with the recruitment sector to maximise the impact of its AI Action Plan.

The organisation said that staffing professionals’ niche expertise can play a pivotal role in addressing resourcing shortages and ensuring regional investments deliver optimal value.

Imtiaz concluded: “Now is a prime time for the intricate and niche knowledge of the recruitment sector to be utilized to support positive change.

“It’s critical that this opportunity isn’t missed.”