The size of central government’s digital workforce is growing, with most of them based outside London, according to new figures.
The Central Digital and Data Office (CDDO) has published the findings from research by the Workforce Insights Commission shortly after the announcement on the creation of the new Government Digital and Data brand for the Civil Service.
It said the number of people in the profession has grown by 9% in the past six months, reaching a total of 28,337, comprising 5.2% of the Civil Service headcount, up by 0.4% from a year before.
It also makes central government one of the largest employers or digital and data professionals in the UK.
Similarly, the number of relevant people in senior leadership roles reached almost 300, an increase of 8% over six months and 18% over a year. 66% of digital senior civil servants are outside the capital, exceeding the target to pass the 50% mark by 2030.
Regional spread
Most of the profession – 79% - are based outside London, with the North West showing the second highest figure at 10% and Wales at 9%.
The figures also show that software developer has been the most in-demand role, accounting for 13% of those filled, with delivery manager and business analyst following.
CDDO highlighted two key points, one being that vacancies and vacancy rates are being reduced, by 5% and 2% respectively over the past 12 months.
“The second, it's clear our digital workforce is growing, and will continue to do so with ample opportunity for more seasoned professionals or budding future specialists to join our ranks,” CDDO said.
It added that the next round of data collection will be the largest yet and will incorporate mobility data.
