Half of UK tech workers planning to leave role, finds Harvey Nash

According to the 2024 Harvey Nash Global tech talent and salary report, half of tech workers in the UK are planning to leave their current roles in the next 12 months.

The research, which surveyed tech employees across 44 countries, revealed that the number of employees looking to leave roles in the UK is higher than the global average, with the main reason being to seek better remuneration.

Additionally, over 40% of employees are also seeking new roles to advance their careers, while 31% are looking for companies with different cultures.

Andy Heyes, managing director for UK, Ireland, and central Europe at Harvey Nash, stated that the challenging work conditions in the UK have led to an increase in employees considering job changes. The report also highlights the mobility of the tech workforce in the UK, with a significant presence of contractors and freelancers.

Furthermore, the report discusses the shifting landscape of tech hiring over the past few years, from a surge in tech hiring during the Covid-19 pandemic to the recent concerns about redundancies and budget cuts affecting tech jobs.

Employees are now placing greater importance on the benefits offered by their employers, such as flexible working arrangements and improved healthcare benefits. Companies that prioritize employee well-being, including hybrid and flexible working options, are more likely to attract and retain diverse talent.

Despite efforts to promote diversity in the tech sector, the report notes that there is still a significant gender gap, with women often entering tech careers through non-traditional routes. Businesses are urged to address the lack of access to skilled workers, particularly in the development of AI technologies.

To bridge the tech skills gap, companies are investing in internal training programs for emerging technologies. However, concerns about the diversity of teams developing AI persist, as bias can be introduced into technology if development teams do not reflect the diversity of the end users.

Bev White, CEO of Nash Squared, emphasized the importance of attracting and retaining talent in the tech industry, especially as organizations look to harness the power of AI. The report serves as a valuable resource for understanding the perspectives of tech professionals and guiding organizations in their talent strategies.