Accenture to create 1,700 UK jobs during 2017 in ‘vote of confidence’ for economy

'These jobs will be filled around the country in cutting-edge sectors where Britain leads the world, such as cyber security, robotics and virtual reality', Chancellor Philip Hammond said

Chancellor Philip Hammond described the investment as a 'vote of confidence' in Britain’s economy (PA)

Consultancy firm Accenture aims to have hired 1,700 people in the UK during its 2017 financial year, the company announced on Thursday.

Chancellor Philip Hammond described the investment as a “vote of confidence” in Britain’s economy.

The roles are based throughout the country, primarily in London and Newcastle, and are focused on technology – including around 500 positions across robotics, cyber defence, artificial intelligence (AI), data science and virtual reality.

The company said it had hired recruited approximately 600 entry level employees, including school leavers, as it further broadens its intake beyond university graduates.

“This investment is a vote of confidence in our plan to build a stronger economy,” Mr Hammond said.

“These jobs will be filled around the country in cutting-edge sectors where Britain leads the world, such as cyber security, robotics and virtual reality.”

Olly Benzecry, chairman and senior managing director for Accenture in the UK and Ireland, said: “Accenture’s growing workforce marks our ongoing commitment to the UK as we continue to help our clients navigate through a period of unprecedented change and digital disruption.

“It’s an incredibly exciting time to be at Accenture as we work with organisations to unlock value through innovation.

“As new technologies rapidly impact every aspect of our lives, from progress in AI to the increasing threat of cyber crime, we are taking on people who possess the skills required to help our clients to succeed in the digital economy.”

The company is also bolstering its technology advisory and consulting workforce in industries including financial services, communications & media, retail, consumer goods & services, utilities and government.

Accenture said it is also training 40 technology apprentices this year, and offering technology and digital-oriented work experience, and vocational education.