Working in IT

Bigger country, bigger companies, bigger opportunities

Companies in and around London are desperately seeking skilled IT professionals in a tight labour market. New Zealanders and Australians are popular due to their adaptability and broad base of IT skills, rather than the more specialised skill sets found in the UK. With the ability to hit the ground running, Kiwis and Aussies tend to find work quickly!

There is a wide range of both contract and permanent opportunities available across the UK, but as you would expect London is the hub (as one of the biggest financial centres in the world). With a 5.5% rise in IT salaries over the last 12 months, this is certainly a market where money can be made while progressing your career.

Where people are getting work

Financial services, Telcos, and Tech companies lead the way

Over 50% of the job universe for antipodeans is made up of the banks, telecommunications, and technology companies. The size of these companies is huge – as they are often the European headquarters for multi-national companies – with all the separate divisions having their own IT teams and requirements. Add to this enormous project sizes where budgets of £20million are not uncommon and you have exceptional possibilities.

When moving to the UK keep an open mind about these sectors, as you may well end up in a great job within a huge bank.

Central city or M40 corridor - the choice is yours

Canary Wharf and the Square Mile (the City) is where it is at for the financial services sector. These areas are in the heart of the action, and despite the crush of the tube, you can always be guaranteed great rates of pay and an excellent nightlife.

The Public sector is located outside of City but they engage in some of the largest scale IT projects in the UK. Just consider the NHS (National Health Service) whose National Programme for IT (NPfIT) has given out over £12billion in IT contracts, on top of its regular £8billion in IT spend.

If Technology and Telecoms is your game then head out of the M40 corridor (the Silicon Valley of England). Mobile phone companies, like O2 and 3, Telecommunications companies, like Verizon and Virgin media, and Technology companies are just a quick train trip from Paddington.

If London is not for you, there are plenty of other opportunities available across the UK as many high profile organisations have offices located in most main cities.

What people earn and how it stacks up

More more more!

Salaries for IT professionals are increasing steadily, and show no sign of slowing down anytime soon – be prepared to earn approximately 50% more in the UK. You will get the opportunity to be exposed to larger, more complex environments, different industries, and career growth, which will count for a lot when/if you decide to return home.

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Different sector, different pay?

Salaries can vary considerably between sectors. With the banks scouting for individuals, they are prepared to pay for them, resulting in much higher salaries in the Banking & Financial Services sectors.

Different organisations have varying degrees of benefits, and can include anything from gym memberships and lunches through to bonuses of anywhere from 10% of your base salary upwards. Contractors aren’t left out either; there are often completion bonuses that you will receive at the end of your contract – assuming the project is a success.

Things you need to know to make the most of it

Contracting

The contracting market is very different in the UK to that in Australia or New Zealand with lots of options to structure your salary in a tax efficient way. Speak to us today about how we can help you here!

Visas

The type of visa you are on can affect your job opportunities in the UK. While the Working Holiday Visa is cheaper, a Highly Skilled Migrant Permit (HSMP) will make life a lot easier when looking for work. It also pays to apply for this in New Zealand or Australia, rather than travelling on a Working Holiday Visa and trying to switch over later.

Helpful hints for the uninitiated

Many organisations search for specific UK experience, which means you may not be able to get exactly the role you are after the first time around.

Once you get your first UK contract under your belt life will be a little easier!

The recruitment process can differ for contract and permanent jobs

Contracts – Generally contracts are with an immediate start. You may interview one day, and be suited and booted turning up to work the next day! This is fantastic as you will be earning £’s quickly.

Permanent – The process is a lot longer with permanent roles, with some organisations holding 2, 3, or even 4 interviews, plus ability and psychometric testing. This process can drag out for a few weeks, and you may not necessarily be successful at the end of it. If you are desperate to get some money in after your travels over, it may work out better to take a contract, and look for the right permanent role while contracting.

NB. The service we provide IT professionals heading to the UK is different from the other employment sectors we assist.

To speak with one of our experienced UK consultants about how we can help you, please contact us on uk@globalcareerlink.com.