In today’s rapidly evolving technical landscape, a quiet revolution is taking place. While headlines focus on artificial intelligence and digital transformation, a more fundamental shift is occurring in how organisations secure their most valuable asset: security-cleared technical talent. As we progress through 2025, this challenge has reached a critical point, presenting both unprecedented challenges and remarkable opportunities.
The numbers tell a compelling story. With the UK’s skills shortage threatening to cost our economy £120 billion by 2030, and security-cleared technical roles becoming increasingly crucial for national infrastructure and defence projects, organisations are being forced to rethink their approach to talent acquisition. Yet within this challenge lies an opportunity that forward-thinking companies are already beginning to seize.
Bridging the Gap: The Tech Talent Reality
According to ManpowerGroup’s 2025 Tech Talent Report, 69% of UK companies are struggling to fill security-cleared technical roles, with cybersecurity and cloud infrastructure positions being particularly challenging. This talent shortage is costing the UK tech sector an estimated £21 billion annually in lost productivity and innovation opportunities.
The security-cleared tech landscape presents a unique challenge. While we have a growing pool of skilled veterans – approximately 16,250 personnel leaving the armed forces annually – connecting this talent with critical technical roles requires a more nuanced approach than traditional recruitment methods.
Key market indicators show:
• Security-cleared cloud architects commanding 20-25% higher rates than non-cleared counterparts
• Technical roles with SC clearance seeing average time-to-hire of 12 weeks
• 72% of security-cleared positions now offering hybrid working arrangements
• Demand for cleared DevOps specialists increased by 43% since 2024
The Evolution of Working Practices
The technical landscape isn’t just changing in terms of skills requirements – it’s transforming how we work:
• Hybrid working models have become standard practice
• Security-cleared roles are adapting to flexible arrangements
• Technical upskilling pathways are being streamlined
• Framework agreements are facilitating faster placements
Looking Ahead: Key Trends
As we progress through 2025, several factors are shaping the future of security-cleared technical recruitment: • Increased demand for cloud security expertise
• Growing emphasis on DevOps capabilities
• Rising premium for security clearance in technical roles
• Enhanced focus on continuous professional development
The Path to Success
For organisations looking to address their technical talent needs, success lies in adopting a more strategic approach:
- Understanding the Market • Recognising the true value of security clearance • Appreciating the technical expertise within the veteran talent pool • Staying informed about market rate evolution
- Adapting Recruitment Strategies • Implementing efficient clearance processes • Creating clear technical progression pathways • Developing competitive package structures
- Building Sustainable Solutions • Investing in technical upskilling programmes • Creating supportive transition frameworks • Establishing long-term talent pipelines
Looking Forward
As the tech talent landscape continues to evolve, organisations must adapt their approach to security-cleared recruitment. While 69% of UK companies struggle with these placements, those who implement strategic solutions are seeing remarkable results.
Our experience at One Way or Another Limited demonstrates that success lies in understanding both the technical and human elements of security-cleared recruitment. Through our specialised approach, we’ve helped organisations reduce their time-to-hire from 12 weeks to just four weeks for security-cleared technical roles, while maintaining exceptional retention rates.
Ready to Transform Your Technical Recruitment?
At One Way or Another Limited, we specialise in connecting employers with high-calibre, security-cleared technical talent. Our expertise ensures you not only find the right technical skills but also create an environment that supports long-term success.
Contact us today to discover how we can help you: • Reduce time-to-hire for security-cleared technical roles • Access a wider pool of qualified candidates • Implement effective retention strategies • Drive technical innovation through strategic hiring
Connect with us at [email protected] or call +44 (0)2089457705 to discuss your security-cleared technical recruitment needs.
