It’s no secret that the job market is only getting more competitive. The job descriptions, cover letters, and applications can seem like they’ll never end – especially if you’re applying for your first job!

Here at Manchester Young Professionals (MYP), we want to make this process easier for you and help you break into your dream career. We partner with some of Manchester’s very best companies to support brilliant young professionals like yourself and expand your network of industry contacts.

Our ‘A Career In…’ blog series explores a variety of career opportunities available in the wonderful city of Manchester. For example, we’ve checked out A Career in Finance as well as A Career in Digital Marketing thanks to our digital partner, Embryo.

We recently spoke to Hitachi Solutions Europe in our ‘Get to Know’ series and in this article, the company is offering its expertise about a career in technology.

Not sure if a technology role is right for you? You may be surprised…

 

The UK’s technology sector, explained by leading consultancy firm, Hitachi Solutions Europe

As a global digital, data, and technology consultancy, Hitachi Solutions specialises in digital transformation using Microsoft technology to both the public and private sectors.

According to the company, the UK is at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies that are changing the world for the better. As a global leader in innovation and creativity, the UK is exploring a range of solutions, including:

  • Artificial intelligence (AI)
  • Cloud computing
  • Data science and analytics
  • Low code application development

The UK tech sector is also attracting massive investment from around the world. In 2022, UK tech companies raised a whopping £24 billion in capital – that’s more than Germany and France combined!

This showcases the potential of the UK’s technology industry as well as the current – and future – opportunities that are available in the sector. Manchester specifically has the fastest growing digital economy in Europe – it’s been reported that 78% of digital companies in Greater Manchester had expanded in 2022.

With the number of digital sector roles in Greater Manchester to reach 95,000 by 2026, there’s never been a better time to start your career.

 

Don’t think the technology sector is for you? Think again

It is a common misconception that the technology sector is only accessible to software developers and experienced IT professionals.

In reality, there are millions of people working in diverse and rewarding roles within the technology industry, such as:

  • Design
  • Marketing
  • Sales
  • Project management

The landscape of technology-focused roles is rapidly changing due to advancements in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), which have made technology consulting and software development roles more accessible than ever before.

Technology consulting firms service a variety of industries that use technology to make a positive impact in the world. So no matter your focus area, there is likely to be a suitable role for you within the technology sector.

 

What the Hitachi Solutions Europe team has to say about a career in technology

Tom Simms, service delivery manager at Hitachi Solutions Europe.

‘I decided to pursue a career in tech following my university placement year at John Lewis, where I helped implement a new CRM system across our branch. It was great to see how technology made our work easier and more efficient, and how my colleagues responded to learning something new. 

‘Now I speak to clients every day and help them make the most of their investments in technology. I work with a team of amazing tech experts who share my enthusiasm and curiosity. 

‘Working in tech is not only rewarding, but also fun and social. I’ve made lots of good friends along the way, and we have a culture of supporting and learning from each other.’

Be sure to check out Hitachi Solutions’ career page to discover what fantastic job opportunities are available for you!

 

The benefits to working in the technology sector

The demand for tech talent is huge and continues to grow. There are over a million tech jobs waiting to be filled in the UK, and the sector is expected to grow even more in 2023!

Competitive salary – In 2022, it was reported that the UK tech field’s starting salaries are more than 60% higher than the national average! Naturally, the more you progress, the higher your salary will continue to grow. Therefore, if money is your motivation, a career in tech might just be for you.

Flexible working – These days, almost every industry now offers flexible working to remain competitive. Whether that be a hybrid model or completely remote, tech companies rarely follow a traditional 9-5 working day.

Learning opportunities – We’ve all seen just how quickly technology has advanced in the last few years. It’s not looking like it will slow down anytime soon, so there are likely to be numerous opportunities to continue to expand your skill set – usually paid for by your employer too!

Diverse community – According to TechUK, people from ethnic minorities make up 15.2% of the UK technology sector compared to the 11.8% of the wider workforce. Although there is still room for improvement regarding gender and diversity inclusion, it is still an extremely supportive and welcoming industry.

Rewarding career – We all know how great it feels to know you have helped make a difference. Certain tech companies make it their mission to improve the lives of others. Therefore, a career in the tech sector is a great way to make this feeling a part of your everyday life.

 

How to get a job in tech

You may be thinking that the only way to get a job in the tech sector is through a degree. However, this isn’t the only way. There are a number of apprenticeships available, such as:

  • Support analyst
  • Software testing
  • Data analytics and visualisation
  • DevOps engineering
  • Technology consulting

Networking at events like the ones we host at here MYP is a great way to show employers your motivation for starting your career in this sector.

Our events can quickly sell out, so be sure to stay tuned so you don’t miss out!

 

How MYP can help you secure your dream career in technology

Manchester is continuing to grow and – we may be biased – we believe there is no better place to start your career as a young professional. At MYP, we’ll continue to showcase the various businesses, sectors, and opportunities available in our beautiful city.

To be kept up to date with our networking events, follow us on Instagram or simply get in touch. We’d love to hear from you!