A busy few months in the media saw the UK grappling with a £57.2 billion data skills gap, shifting financial sector dynamics, new global AI regulations, and a push for C-suite diversity, highlighting key challenges and opportunities.

Take a look at the coverage below:

UK recruiters struggling to hire data staff as shortage costs UK £57.2 billion each year – TALiNT Partners – Derek Mackenzie, CEO, Investigo

UK recruiters struggling to hire data staff as shortage costs UK £57.2 billion each year The UK faces a £57.2 billion annual cost due to a chronic data skills shortage, according to the Multiverse Skills Intelligence report. Workers spend an average of 14.3 hours per week on data tasks, with 4.3 hours wasted due to inefficiencies. Many rely heavily on Excel and lack proficiency in tools like Python. Nearly 90% of business leaders recognise significant skills gaps, while half of employees feel underqualified. Derek Mackenzie, CEO of Investigo, emphasises the importance of developing a national talent pipeline in digital skills to support job growth and help businesses thrive amid recruitment challenges.

UK recruiters struggle to hire data staff – TALiNT Partners Insights

We need to change the narrative around financial services – Financial Times Adviser – Kelly Fordham, Director, Investigo  

Kelly Fordham, Director of Financial Services at Investigo, highlights a shift in graduate priorities, stating that traditional draws of the financial sector, such as high salaries and bonuses, no longer appeal to Generation Z. Younger professionals now prioritise work-life balance and values like social justice and environmental responsibility. Fordham warns of a “huge talent drain” in banking, as staff move into private equity, leaving critical roles unfilled. To attract new talent, she urges the financial sector to shift its narrative and align with the values of the younger demographic, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 talent gap.

‘We need to change the narrative around financial services’ – FTAdviser

What Does the World’s First International AI Treaty Include? – AI Magazine – Matt Smith, Managing Director, Investigo

The Council of Europe has announced the first legally binding international AI treaty, marking a major milestone in AI governance. The treaty, which builds on the EU’s AI Act, aims to create a global standard for AI regulation while protecting human rights and ensuring AI systems respect privacy and equality. Nations including the US, UK, and EU members are set to sign the agreement, which goes beyond voluntary corporate commitments to establish a government-led framework. As Matt Smith, Managing Director at Investigo, notes, businesses must embrace AI but with the right guidelines to foster responsible innovation.

What Does the World’s First International AI Treaty Include? | AI Magazine

C-suite strategies to maintain diversity – Natalie Whittlesey, Director C-Suite Engagement, The IN Group

Over half of CEOs acknowledge falling behind on diversity, according to the Tech and the Boardroom survey, as highlighted by Natalie Whittlesey, Director C-Suite Engagement of The IN Group. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are essential for profitability, innovation, and competitive advantage. McKinsey’s research shows teams with strong ethnic and gender representation significantly outperform others. To close diversity gaps, C-suite leaders must drive DEI efforts by setting measurable goals, collaborating with HR, and ensuring inclusive recruitment. Leaders should also join peer networks and support mentorship programs to empower future leaders, especially in tech, where gender gaps persist.

C-suite strategies to maintain diversity – WeAreTechWomen – Supporting Women in Technology