If there is one thing that has defined 2025 for our Technology and Business Transformation practice, it is the sheer volume and variety of programmes happening across the UK and Europe. Much of our work this year has centred around large ERP implementations, mainly D365 and Infor, along with a noticeable rise in complex transformation projects within PE-backed organisations. Many of these have involved redesigning Target Operating Models and bringing in interim specialists to keep long-term plans moving in the right direction.
From speaking with clients and leaders across the market, it is clear that 2025 has been a tipping point. Digital transformation has moved from “something we should get to” to a firm business priority, with technology finally catching up to the ambitions organisations have talked about for years.
Generative AI is now embedded in day-to-day operations rather than just innovation labs. It is helping teams automate repetitive tasks, tighten up decision making, and work more efficiently. The interesting part is that while AI is everywhere, many companies are still figuring out how to use it in a meaningful, sustainable way. That blend of excitement and uncertainty has definitely shaped the talent market this year.
Cloud migration is no longer the big story. The focus has moved towards hybrid and multi-cloud setups, helped along by edge computing. The result is faster access to data, more flexibility, and a more resilient tech estate.
Low-code and no-code platforms have also continued to gain pace. They let non-technical teams build simple tools and workflows themselves, cutting down lead times and encouraging more practical innovation throughout the business.
With digital footprints growing, cybersecurity has become a core pillar of every transformation project. Zero-trust models and AI-driven threat detection are becoming standard, not aspirational. There has also been more conversation around agentic AI, where systems can take on multi-step tasks. It is exciting, but it does raise questions around governance and operational risk that businesses cannot ignore.
Sustainability has returned to the agenda in a more practical way. Rather than broad statements about being greener, organisations are looking at things like data centre usage, energy consumption, and how digital strategies can reduce their environmental impact over time.
No matter how advanced the technology becomes, culture continues to be the deciding factor. This year we have seen far more investment in reskilling, training, and proper change management. Leaders are pushing for digital-first mindsets, not just digital-first systems. When culture lands well, everything else follows.
Spending on digital transformation keeps climbing, and the trend is expected to continue well into the next decade. For many organisations, it has stopped being a project and has become part of long-term business strategy.
We are planning several round table events next year in Manchester, Birmingham, and London. These sessions will look closely at cyber, AI, and broader business transformation themes, giving leaders the chance to share real-world challenges and approaches.
Our Tech Leaders: Unplugged podcast will also continue into 2026, bringing together a range of voices from across the industry. The aim is simple: open conversations about technology, leadership, and what it really takes to drive meaningful change.
If your organisation is planning a transformation programme or simply wants to understand the talent landscape better, our team is always here for a conversation.
