As the North West’s digital and tech ecosystem continues to evolve, so too does the demand for skills and expertise.
In this new update, we’ll be sharing insights from our Talent Partners - the organisations who are at the forefront of matching brilliant people with growing tech teams - alongside perspectives from in-house talent specialists across our community.
In this update, we take a look at the current hiring landscape: which roles are most in demand, the emerging skills shaping the market, and how candidate expectations are shifting.
Read on to hear directly from our partners and internal experts about what they’re seeing right now across the region’s tech talent market.
Rob Sugden, Managing Director
The North West's tech sector has seen record new company incorporations in 2025, especially around Manchester and Liverpool, driving demand for talent.
Employers are competing for professionals in AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and full stack development, with Python, Java, and JavaScript among the top sought-after skills.
2025 has seen growth in the use of temporary talent through both contract and consultancy models, this is indicative of confidence slowly returning to the sector but still with a level of caution as organisations use flexible solutions instead of committing to permanent headcount.
Where companies are hiring for permanent staff expectations have been high with hiring managers looking for the perfect fit and interview processes being lengthened. However this can be counter productive, with less good talent actively looking at the moment the best candidates are getting snapped up quickly and those businesses who set the bar too high or take too long are missing out.
Overall, the market is vibrant but highly competitive, with persistent skills gaps shaping workforce strategies for 2025 and beyond.
Learn more about ECOM
Phil Kell, VP Marketplace
The North West tech market (and UK market more broadly) is evolving quickly, with AI and machine learning skills becoming increasingly important across roles in product, software engineering and DevOps. Rather than replacing traditional roles, AI is augmenting them – opening opportunities for those who can apply new tools to solve problems more effectively.
Companies are now hiring in a more targeted way, with diverse skill sets in demand but smaller headcounts behind each requisition. This reflects how organisations are adapting to the possibilities AI brings, and it creates strong opportunities for candidates who are willing to upskill and broaden their experience. For those earlier in their journey with AI, we’re seeing a real appetite from employers to back candidates who show curiosity and a growth mindset.
Looking ahead, we expect this balance of adaptability and technical depth to define the most in-demand roles well into 2026.
Learn more about hackajob
Ben Broughton, Founder
From what we are seeing in the market, talent shortages remain a challenge across the North West tech sector, especially for senior cloud, data, and leadership roles.
Many candidates now expect more than just a competitive salary; flexibility, clear progression, and alignment with company values are increasingly influencing their decisions. We’ve seen that businesses who can clearly communicate their mission, growth trajectory, and commitment to work-life balance are better positioned to secure the best talent.
The market is competitive, but those able to adapt their offering to evolving candidate expectations stand out.
Learn more about Primis Talent
Russell Livesey, Divisional Director
Manchester’s tech market is seeing particularly strong demand for Data and AI talent. Data Engineers and Analysts are in short supply, while AI/ML specialists who can turn innovation into commercial value are highly sought after. We are seeing similar demand for CRM expertise where organisations are looking to scrutinise data and unlock efficiencies and improve customer journey.
Alongside this, Cloud Engineers, DevOps Specialists, and Cybersecurity Professionals remain highly sought after in certain sectors. On the software side, Python, .NET Core, and React continue to dominate.
At leadership level, CIOs and CTOs who can harness Data and AI to drive transformation while keeping governance and security front of mind are especially sought after. We are also seeing more Interim and Fractional IT Leaders providing tactical support to businesses.
Candidate expectations continue to shift - flexibility, purpose, and career growth matter as much as salary. The best people want roles where they can make a real impact. For employers, culture and vision are now just as critical as the technology stack.
Learn more about SF Technology
Tommy Wilson, Talent Acquisition Partner
At UK Biobank, we’re seeing strong demand across our tech functions, particularly for cloud computing specialists, especially those with AWS expertise as well as talent in cybersecurity, data analytics, and engineering.
We’re actively hiring developers at all levels, alongside experts in secure DevOps, cloud architecture, and data platforms. We are seeing skills shortages across advanced cloud and cyber practice. Candidates are increasingly seeking more than competitive salaries they value flexible working and continuous development.
There’s also a growing emphasis on soft skills like adaptability and collaboration, which are vital in our fast-paced, mission-driven environment. Attracting talent that aligns with our culture and purpose is key to us delivering impact at scale.
Learn more about UK Biobank
