DEI-a major change to businesses in the US – Will organisations in the UK follow?

Posted on February 10, 2025February 14, 2025 by bd-admin

Many large US companies are putting a stop to their diversity initiatives. Walmart, McDonald’s, and Meta announced major changes to their DEI goals. The changes include scrapping their D&I internal teams and training programmes. https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/jan/11/trump-dei-diversity

Can we believe what we have been reading?

Does it not feel like the world is going backwards? As someone who wants to focus on ensuring that my daughters grow up in a world in which diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace are a given, this feels like we are going backwards rather than forwards. Do we think that these changes in the US will have a knock on effect on business across the globe?

Creating a truly diverse and inclusive workplace isn’t just nice to have, it’s essential for innovation, employee engagement, and long-term success. We discussed this very topic not so long ago at our Women in Tech Series Event (see here). We heard from Kat Mitchell (co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer) and Nikki Miles (Head of Data and Analytics) about their experience of how diversity has made their businesses thrive and continue to grow year after year.

But not all hope is lost like MBP there are some outstanding organisations here in the UK that are leading the way and continuing to support DEI in their businesses – check them out.

Kingfisher

Kingfisher plc (Global international home improvement company) understands that both their customers and employees come from diverse backgrounds. Their commitment to inclusion is reflected in their four key employee networks, Gender Affinity Network, Neurodiversity Affinity Network, LGBTQ+ Affinity Network and Race & Culture Affinity Network.

Kingfisher is taking a flexible approach to work, encouraging employees to be open about what works best for them. Their investment in D&I initiatives ensures that everyone feels valued and supported.

https://www.kingfisher.com/responsible-business/our-priorities/colleagues

Chase (JP Morgan)

Chase, the digital bank owned by JP Morgan, is committed to embedding diversity and inclusion across all areas of its business.

Their Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), provide employees with opportunities to connect, grow, and feel valued with over 35% of JP Morgan Chase & Co employees participating in at least one group it’s been a huge success.

IAG Tech (the technology arm of International Airlines Group)

As part of IAG Global Business Services, IAG Tech delivers cutting-edge technology across the entire business. Their inclusive culture is built around six key areas: Engagement, Talent Management, Reward & Recognition, Performance Management, Learning & Development, and Culture.

IAG Tech is actively working toward a 50% female representation in their tech teams by 2030, showcasing their commitment to building a truly diverse workforce.

https://www.iairgroup.com/people-and-careers/equity-diversity-and-inclusion/

Jaguar Land Rover

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) believes that their people are their greatest asset, and fostering a diverse, inclusive culture is key to their success.

JLR was the first UK car manufacturer to sign the Business in the Community ‘Race at Work Charter’ and is also a member of The Valuable 500, a global movement promoting disability inclusion in business. Their structured D&I strategy focuses on three key areas:

Shaping a culture of unity, belonging, and respect
Implementing progressive policies, benefits, and support
Engaging employees and experts to drive progress

https://www.jaguarlandrover.com/diversity-equity-inclusion

These companies are proving that diversity, equality and inclusion aren’t just buzzwords they are living and breathing it. Whether through hiring targets, employee networks, or broader social impact, each of these organisations is leading the way in fostering inclusive workplaces which we can all learn from.

There is still hope!!

Technology and Digital Job Market Trends 2025

Posted on January 9, 2025January 9, 2025 by bd-admin

Top digital and technology job trends to watch out for in 2025

The technology and digital industries are constantly evolving, reshaping the roles businesses create and redefining the skills they seek. Here’s a look at what we believe the technology and digital job market trends for 2025 will be.

1. AI and machine learning specialists: The demand just keeps on growing.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are not just buzzwords anymore they’re becoming the backbone of countless industries. In 2025, the demand for AI and ML specialists is expected to skyrocket as companies race to integrate intelligent systems into their operations. From chatbots to predictive analytics, the applications are endless.

2. Cybersecurity roles: A critical necessity for all businesses.

As remote work becomes the norm and cyber threats escalate, cybersecurity has never been more essential. Companies are intensifying efforts to safeguard sensitive data, driving a growing demand for cybersecurity analysts, ethical hackers, and information security managers. With the widespread use of third-party software and evolving regulatory requirements, these positions are in high demand. Strong problem-solving skills and proven experience in cybersecurity are key attributes for candidates in these roles.

3. Cloud computing: Building the digital backbone

Cloud technology has revolutionised business operations and will remain pivotal in 2025. Demand for roles such as cloud architects, cloud engineers, and DevOps professionals is set to grow, driven by emerging trends like AI-as-a-Service (AIaaS), serverless computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). With industry leaders like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure at the forefront, expertise in these platforms will be a significant advantage for organisations.

4. Green tech and sustainability careers: Tech meets the planet

Sustainability is no longer a niche – it’s a priority among many growing businesses. The technology industry is playing a massive role in developing green solutions, from renewable energy technologies to efficient data centres. The industry expects to see more jobs in areas like energy optimisation, green software engineering, and environmental data analysis.

5. Extended Reality (XR): The next frontier

Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) – together known as Extended Reality (XR) – are set to revolutionise industries from gaming to healthcare. In 2025, XR developers and designers will be in high demand as companies explore immersive experiences for training, customer engagement, and entertainment.

6. Data analysts and scientists: Turning information into insights

In a world where AI is now driving useful data, those who can analyse and make sense of it will be indispensable. Data analysts and data scientists will continue to be in high demand as businesses rely on them to provide analytics that support them make data-driven decisions to stay competitive.

7. Remote work facilitators: Supporting the virtual office

Remote and hybrid working has created a need for roles that support virtual collaboration. Think IT specialists focused on remote setups, software engineers optimising collaboration tools, and digital transformation experts helping businesses adapt to new workflows.

8. Digital marketing: Creativity meets analytical

Digital marketing roles are evolving with the rise of AI-driven analytics and personalised content. In 2025, marketers who can bridge the gap between creative campaigns and advanced analytics tools will be highly sought after. SEO specialists, social media strategists, and content marketers will continue to thrive.

9. Technology for healthcare: Building a healthier tomorrow

From health apps to wearable health devices, technology is transforming healthcare. Careers in health tech – like bioinformatics specialists, health app developers, and AI-driven diagnostics experts – will flourish.

10. Quantum computing: Shaping the future of technology.

Quantum computing jobs in 2025 are thriving, driven by advancements in quantum hardware, software, and applications across industries. Professionals in this field will focus on developing algorithms, optimising quantum systems, and addressing real-world challenges in cryptography, materials science, and finance. With increasing demand for expertise in quantum programming and engineering, these roles are pivotal in shaping the future of technology.

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For candidates: How to stay ahead of the curve in the technology and digital landscape

With so many exciting opportunities on the horizon, how can you ensure you’re ready for the jobs of 2025? Here are a few tips:

Upskill Regularly: Take online courses, attend workshops, or earn certifications to stay current in your field.
Network Smartly: Connect with professionals in your area of interest through LinkedIn, meetups, or industry conferences.
Stay Curious: The tech world evolves rapidly. Explore emerging trends and technologies to identify where your passion and the market intersect.
Build a Portfolio: Showcase your skills through projects, whether you’re developing an app, contributing to open-source projects, or writing about your expertise.

For businesses: How to find the right candidate for your technology and digital roles ?

It’s just as tricky for businesses to keep up. Better Days Recruitment are specialist in technology and digital roles. For advice on finding the right fit for your business or support on any tricky role, we can help.

Contact us

Women In Tech Series – Building Diverse Teams in Technology and Data

Posted on December 2, 2024December 4, 2024 by bd-admin

A diverse culture and workplace is more than just about gender, race and age – it’s about the diversity of thought.

Following our amazing event back in July Better Days Recruitment and Animo Group were delighted to hold another very successful thought leadership event focusing on the benefits of having a diverse workforce within tech.

Joined by guests from across varying sectors and businesses, this event allowed everyone to contribute and share their experiences on diversity within the workplace.

Kat Mitchell (co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer) and Nikki Miles (Head of Data and Analytics) from MPB – www.mpb.com a Brighton-based company that is bucking the diversity trend, talked about how they have embraced diversity in the workplace.

The main points that were shared and that stood out from these discussions were:

A diverse culture is more than just gender, race and age – it’s about the diversity of thought.
Embed diversity in the workplace culture rather than approaching diversity as a tick-box exercise.
No matter what gender imposter syndrome is real to everyone.
Education in the UK needs to do more to support females move into technology roles in the future.

“ Diversity is not just about representation; it’s about diversity of thought. Listening to individual experiences and viewpoints unlocks creativity, improves decision making and embraces inclusivity. Therefore it is not enough to simply ‘have’ diversity. Diversity thrives when we create spaces that not only value, but embrace and enable different perspectives and personality types; where strong opinions are shared openly but held lightly.” Nikki Miles Head of Data and Analytics MBP.

There’s still more to be done

While diversity in the technology sector remains a challenge there are some signs of improvement in some areas, however, there is still more to be done.

29% – Women and non-binary individuals make up the tech workforce in the UK.
1 in 3 women in tech are considering leaving their jobs due to issues like gender pay gaps and lack of career progression.
25% – of tech workers in the UK identify as part of an ethnic minority. Improvements have been seen in this area however only 13% of senior roles are being held by individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds.

Source: https://www.techtalentcharter.co.uk/reports/diversity-in-tech-report-2024

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Author: bd-admin