Increase in demand for private sector IT candidates

There has been a near 40 per cent increase in demand for IT candidates in private companies compared with three years ago.

This marks a significant shift away from positions for candidates in the public sector, according to data from consulting firm Metaskil.

"Although it may not come as a surprise that demand in the public sector has fallen in the light of the government's austerity measures and cuts in public spending, these figures are one of the first tangible indicators that the impact of this policy is starting to be felt," said Paul Hunsdon, resourcing director at Metaskil. In the past six months, 87 per cent of IT placements have been in the private sector.

The data collected over the past 18 months indicates that 50 per cent of the placements in the private sector have been in business analysis and solutions architecture.

Hunsdon believes this shows that "the private sector is growing and developing, despite the tough economic climate".

This may give indication of new business ventures being initiated or businesses investing in new strategies – a positive sign for the IT industry, Metaskil said.

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