In 2023, the UK contingent talent and strategic solutions market faced challenges shaped by a complex mix of economic, political, and global factors. The broader economic context was dominated by high interest rates, which continued to suppress business sentiment despite the easing inflation compared to 2022. Unlike the US, where talent shortages were common, the UK saw high unemployment, pointing at the persistent mismatch between job openings and the available skills in the workforce. Additionally, stagnant productivity further weakened the talent market.

Although the contingent talent and strategic solutions market fared better than the permanent staffing sector, the segments experienced an overall slowdown. Only providers with diversified portfolios, focusing on strategic solutions, managed services, and other strategic investments, were able to effectively navigate these challenges. As we look forward to 2024-25, there is cautious optimism for the UK economy. The new government offers hope for modest growth, which could positively influence the contingent talent and strategic solutions market, though a full recovery in business confidence may take time.

This report examines the contingent talent and strategic solutions landscape’s dynamics in the UK and its impact on the UK contingent staffing market in 2023 under the lens of IT and business and professionals staffing. It provides a market overview and analyzes the areas where providers differentiate themselves based on the comprehensive Everest Group PEAK Matrix^®.

Scope

• Industry: contingent talent and strategic solutions
• Geography: UK
• Skills coverage: IT, business and professionals

Contents

The report analyzes the performance of various UK contingent talent and strategic solution providers and examines:

• The UK contingent talent and strategic solution provider landscape
• 17 UK IT contingent talent and strategic solutions providers and classifies them into Leaders, Major Contenders, and Aspirants on Everest Group’s proprietary PEAK Matrix^® framework
• 16 UK business and professionals contingent talent and strategic solutions providers and classifies them into Leaders, Major Contenders, and Aspirants on Everest Group’s proprietary PEAK Matrix^® framework
• Providers’ capability assessment on seven dimensions: market adoption, portfolio mix, value delivered, scope of services offered, innovation and investments, delivery footprints, and vision and strategy
• Each contingent talent and strategic solution provider’s key strengths and limitations

Membership(s)

Contingent Staffing

Sourcing and Vendor Management