Why public sector technology leaders must rethink workforce planning

Public sector technology leaders are under mounting pressure not just to innovate, but to build resilient, high-performing technology teams capable of delivering essential services across the UK. As technology continues to transform government operations and public expectations grow, the need for strategic workforce planning has never been greater.

Recent research highlights how technology managers across industries are planning further ahead than ever—and the lessons for public sector leaders are clear.

Why planning ahead matters in the public sector

Public sector organisations face unique challenges in workforce management compared to their private counterparts: budget constraints, talent competition with industry, and the imperative to deliver secure, efficient digital services.

According to a recent survey by Guidant Global of over 240 CTOs and CIOs, a striking 68% are already planning their workforce needs for the coming year, and another 19% are looking out one to two years ahead.

For public sector technology leaders, this approach is critical for anticipating future skill shortages, adapting to changing regulatory environments, and ensuring continuity of service - especially as the demand for AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity expertise intensifies.

Anticipating skills shortages and adapting recruitment models

The race to secure specialised technology talent is particularly fierce in the public sector, where attracting high-quality candidates is often hampered by rigid salary bands, longer hiring processes, and competition from the private sector. The research also found that only 34% of organisations now rely primarily on permanent staff, with many shifting toward flexible models such as outsourcing and contingent talent.

For government technology leaders, this means potentially exploring alternative workforce models - contractors, partnerships, and project-based teams - to respond faster to emerging needs and fill gaps in critical skill areas.

Candidate quality remains the biggest challenge, with 27% of leaders citing it as their top concern, followed by difficulties in sourcing specialised technical skills and meeting rising salary expectations.

Upskilling and role redesign: Preparing for the future

With technology advancing at top speed, upskilling current employees and redesigning roles to integrate new tools - particularly in AI and cybersecurity - are essential steps. The research shows that 73% of tech leaders are already prioritising investments in training, role innovation, and governance frameworks for emerging technologies.

For the public sector, creating clear pathways for career development, investing in ongoing education, and embedding flexible work options can help build future-ready teams and support organisational transformation.

Aligning workforce planning with mission and public value

The public sector’s mission-driven nature offers a unique advantage in workforce planning. Technology managers can align talent strategies with broader organisational goals such as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), people focused service delivery, and digital accessibility.

By highlighting opportunities for career growth, promoting flexible work arrangements, and offering competitive pay, public sector organisations can attract and retain top talent, even in a challenging market where only 18% of organisations aren’t struggling to recruit or keep the best employees.

Act now to build the public sector technology workforce of tomorrow

As technological change accelerates and public expectations rise, technology leaders in government cannot afford to wait. Proactive workforce planning enables leaders to anticipate challenges, seize opportunities, and ensure their technology teams are equipped to deliver on their mission.

By investing in upskilling, embracing flexible workforce models, and aligning talent strategies with organisational priorities, public sector technology managers can secure a decisive advantage and help shape the future of public services for years to come.

If you’re ready to strengthen your public sector technology workforce and want expert guidance, get in touch with Comensura. Our expert team specialises in workforce management solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us today to start the conversation and discover how we can help drive your transformation.