Tech Talent Pulse: Scaling Smart, Managing AI Expectations and Global Growth Returns

Every week, we speak to senior leaders in Technology and Tech Sales across the UK, EU and USA about their market outlook, leadership priorities and hiring challenges, across both permanent and contract. This week, optimism is returning as the IMF projects the UK to be the second-fastest-growing advanced economy in 2025, behind only the US. Confidence across our conversations is following suit, companies are scaling teams, managing AI expectations more strategically, and exploring new international growth opportunities. Here are the five biggest takeaways from this week’s conversations.

1. Confidence Returns as Growth Picks Up

Economic data continues to strengthen, with the IMF forecasting 1.3% growth for the UK this year and next, outpacing every G7 country except the US. Leaders we spoke with said they’re feeling the shift, with most reporting strong pipelines and new roles being approved for Q4 and early 2026. One client said, “The new financial year’s already off to a fast start, with three new hires this week alone.”

💡 Takeaway: Market confidence is back, and hiring is following. Now is the time to build your bench for 2026 while top talent is still available. Speak to us today to get ahead of the curve.

2. AI Adoption: From Hype to Value

The conversations this week reflected a clear shift, from hype to practicality. Several technology leaders said they are now beyond the experimentation stage and focused on creating measurable value from AI. Many described being in a “weird place in the AI space”, with tools like Copilot and Databricks AI still struggling to prove ROI. Rather than chasing trends, businesses are now building policies, training teams and investing in data infrastructure to get AI-ready. As one leader put it, “We’re done buying buzzwords. It’s time for AI to earn its place.” 

💡 Takeaway: The AI landscape is maturing, the winners will be those who invest in real-world adoption and integration. Need help building the right data and engineering teams to get there? We can help.

3. Offshore and Hybrid Delivery Evolving

Offshoring remains an active strategy, particularly for large-scale engineering and AI projects, but clients are becoming more selective about what stays offshore versus in-house. One UK-based leader noted that their operation is now “90% offshore with local specialists bridging the gap between delivery and client expectations.” We’re seeing hybrid delivery models emerge, where onshore teams lead client relationships and architecture, while offshore teams execute technical delivery. It’s driving efficiency but also creating new leadership and collaboration challenges.

💡 Takeaway: The most successful tech teams are blending cost efficiency with control. If you’re considering hybrid or distributed delivery models, partner with specialists who can help structure your teams for long-term success.

4. Scaling Smart: Quality Over Quantity

Across both tech and sales functions, leaders are emphasising quality over volume when it comes to hiring. After a year of careful headcount planning, businesses are scaling again, but with sharper scrutiny. In several conversations, hiring managers said they’re focusing on candidates who blend technical depth with commercial acumen, especially for senior and go-to-market roles.

One client summed it up perfectly: “The quality of candidates Maxwell Bond provided was exceptional, aligning perfectly with our company’s vision and culture. Their expertise, efficiency and dedication have played a significant role in enabling our business to continue its exciting growth journey.”

💡 Takeaway: Scaling smart means finding the right people, not just more people. If you’re expanding in 2025, focus on capability and cultural alignment first, and partner with recruiters who can deliver both.

5. Volume Overload and Process Pressure

Even as hiring picks up, talent teams remain under pressure. One client said a marketing role received over 200 applications in three days, swamping the internal team. Many others are finding the same, the market is active, but sorting genuine quality from AI-enhanced CVs and mismatched applicants is slowing processes.

💡 Takeaway: High application volumes don’t always mean high-quality pipelines. If your internal team is overwhelmed, our delivery specialists can help you streamline your process and source pre-qualified, high-fit candidates without the noise.

The market is gaining momentum, confidence is returning, and teams are scaling with purpose. Whether you’re planning leadership appointments, expanding your data and engineering teams, or looking for contract expertise to support transformation, Maxwell Bond has the experience and market insight to help you succeed.

📩 Email us at team@maxwellbond.co.uk or call 0161 359 3280 to discuss your hiring plans.

 💬 And we’d love to hear your thoughts, how are you approaching growth and AI adoption heading into 2026? Join the conversation in the comments below.