Businesses across the UK are reporting persistent skills gaps in networking, cybersecurity and data/AI that are slowing growth, according to a new IDC InfoBrief commissioned by Expereo.

Across the industry, shortages are reported to be most acute in cybersecurity (44%), networking (40%), and data/AI/automation (33%). The findings indicate the pressures that many in the industry faced in 2024 have persisted, delaying AI adoption and forcing changes in leadership priorities and workforce plans.

The study reports that 40% of organisations cannot find or keep networking specialists, while 33% face the same challenge for data, AI and automation roles. In response, firms are splitting their bets: 40% expect to lean more on external vendors to plug networking gaps and 38% plan similar moves in cybersecurity, even as many ramp up internal upskilling, cross-training, and development of human skills such as collaboration and creativity.

AI’s prominence is reshaping executive relationships as well as resourcing. One in three technology leaders (33%) say their CEO is now working more closely with the CIO than a year ago, reflecting the urgency to deliver AI-enabled change. Board-level visibility is also rising, with 76% of UK technology leaders reporting that the focus on AI has elevated their personal profile.

Predictions that a Chief AI Officer would eclipse parts of the CIO remit have not yet materialised widely. IDC notes 87% of UK businesses have not appointed a CAIO, despite discussion of that role’s rapid emergence.

Ben Elms, CEO of Expereo, commented, “Technology leaders are being asked to do more than ever, including driving AI strategy and managing infrastructure – all while navigating critical skills gaps. What’s encouraging is that many enterprises are responding proactively: strengthening vendor partnerships, rethinking leadership structures and investing in talent to stay ahead. To meet their growth ambitions and fully realise the potential of AI, businesses must continue to empower their technology leaders with the resources and support they need to succeed.”