UK business leaders are setting the pace in technological expertise, outpacing their global counterparts, according to recent research from Accenture. The consultancy’s new study, which analyzed the professional backgrounds of CEOs and board members from the world’s 2,500 largest companies, reveals a significant rise in tech proficiency among UK executives. More than 23% of UK business leaders are now considered ‘proficient’ in technology—a substantial increase from 17% in 2021.
This proficiency is defined by experience in making technology decisions, holding senior roles in tech companies, or having significant exposure to critical areas such as AI, cloud computing, data analytics, and cybersecurity. The UK’s focus on tech leadership now places it ahead of other global regions, with only 16% of European executives and 22% of North American executives demonstrating similar expertise.
Sheila Flavell, COO of FDM Group, emphasized the importance of this trend, stating, “It’s encouraging to see UK businesses investing in skills and training, particularly in rapidly advancing fields like AI and data. This investment is crucial for standing out on the global stage. However, for the UK to solidify its position as a global technology superpower, there must be stronger collaboration between government, businesses, and educators. We need to prioritize high-value skills training and bridge the gap between academic institutions and the workplace to foster the next generation of tech talent.”
Flavell also highlighted the need for a broader focus beyond AI and data, stressing the importance of developing skills in software engineering to address existing gaps. She advocated for experiential learning as part of training processes, allowing employees to gain hands-on experience with industry-relevant software and concepts. This approach, she argues, accelerates knowledge acquisition and builds confidence, better preparing candidates for real-world applications.
In the FTSE, tech expertise among board executives has seen a 12% increase over the past three years, with one-quarter of these leaders now possessing technology skills. In the C-Suite, nearly one in five executives have a background in technology, reinforcing the UK’s leadership position. Comparatively, only 16% of senior executives across Europe have tech expertise, with France showing a rise to 20%. North America follows closely with 22% of its leaders proficient in technology.
The study also highlights the growing influence of female leaders in enhancing tech knowledge at the top levels of UK companies. Remarkably, 40% of board members and CEOs in the UK are women, with nearly one-third possessing tech expertise—almost double the rate of their male counterparts.
Antonia Walt, Chief of Client Experience at AND Digital, commented on this trend, stating, “It’s incredibly exciting to see women in tech leadership roles driving innovation across UK businesses. Diverse teams are critical for long-term growth, and it’s clear that women are passionate about technology and eager to make a significant impact.”
The commitment to fostering female leadership in tech is evident, with 79% of senior women in technology feeling successful, according to AND Digital’s Rewards & Resilience report. To maintain and build on this success, Walt emphasized the importance of ongoing investment in skills training for women, advocating for a people-centered and innovation-driven approach to ensure that they remain empowered and equipped to thrive in an evolving industry.
The rise of AI is also reshaping C-suite roles, with 40% of job postings in the past year relating to data. UK businesses are increasingly seeking strategic positions such as chief data officers, while 5% of FTSE 100 companies are actively recruiting for AI and data-driven roles. This shift underscores the critical role that data and AI will play in the future of business leadership, further solidifying the UK’s position at the forefront of global technological expertise.
