According to its latest annual CEO survey, more than eight in 10 (83%) chief executives said that they are “somewhat” or “extremely” concerned about how to get hold of key skills – up from 71% last year.
The findings come in the context of current trends that suggest technology will drive a shift from low-skill, routine occupations to higher-skill, agile roles, creating worrying predictions of a labour market deficit in highly skilled areas.
The Open University said that urgent change is needed to ensure progression to higher skilled occupations for all. If current trends continue then the UK will have a total of 15 million high-skill jobs by 2022, leaving a shortage of three million high-skilled workers.
“As we consider what the heralded Industry 4.0 means for our future workforce needs, there is certainly encouragement from the fact that our economy is seeing growth in high-skill areas,” said Steve Hill, external engagement director at The Open University.
“But the shape of our labour force must change to meet business requirements. We need to consider fully the impact on individuals, businesses and the economy as a whole if we fail to open up opportunities for progression to those currently locked into low-skill roles.
“Creating a high-skill workforce across the UK is key to boosting growth in all regions, particularly those that are currently suffering the severest skills shortages.”
CEOs concerned over key skills availability
1 min read
The availability of key skills is a big concern among chief executives in the UK, a survey by PwC has indicated.
