Top Digital Skills Councils & Public Sector Employers Are Looking for in 2025

As the public sector continues to evolve, digital transformation has become more than a priority. Councils, government bodies and public services across the UK are investing heavily in technology to improve service delivery, streamline systems, meet the expectations and enhance data security.

This shift has created a growing demand for candidates with strong digital capabilities. Whether you're exploring council jobs, considering a move into public sector jobs, or looking to upskill for future opportunities, understanding the top digital skills employers need in 2025 will give you a valuable competitive edge.

Below, we break down the most sought-after digital skills shaping public sector recruitment this year, why they matter, and how candidates can stand out.

 

1. Data Literacy & Data Analysis

Data continues to sit at the centre of digital transformation. Councils generate huge amounts of information — from housing needs and social care records to environmental monitoring and community engagement.

In 2026, candidates who can interpret, analyse and use data to guide decision-making are in extremely high demand.

Key abilities include:

• Understanding datasets and digital dashboards
• Using tools such as Power BI, Excel, R or Python
• Extracting insights to support policy development or service improvements
• Presenting data in a clear, accessible way

With councils under increasing pressure to deliver cost-effective, evidence-led services, strong data literacy is valued.

 

2. Cybersecurity Awareness & Risk Management

Public sector organisations are frequent targets of cyber threats due to the sensitive data they manage. As a result, cybersecurity is now one of the most valued digital skills across council jobs and public sector jobs.

Professionals don’t need to be cybersecurity specialists to make an impact. What employers want is a workforce that understands cyber risks and can follow best practices to protect systems and data.

Highly sought-after skills include:

• Recognising phishing attempts
• Understanding GDPR and data governance
• Safely handling confidential information
• Applying secure password and access management practices

For more technical roles, councils need experts in network security and incident response — areas where demand currently exceeds supply.

 

3. Digital Project Management

Digital transformation doesn’t happen without effective project management. Councils and public sector bodies are rolling out new systems, online platforms, mobile applications and automation tools at a rapid pace.

Professionals with digital project management skills — particularly those familiar are highly valued.

Employers are looking for:

• Ability to manage digital change from planning to implementation
• Experience working in cross-functional teams
• Understanding of user-centred design
• Confidence communicating project updates to non-technical stakeholders

Those who can lead both people and processes through change are proving especially important in public sector transformation programmes.

 

4. Cloud Computing & Infrastructure Knowledge

As more councils migrate to cloud-based systems, skills in cloud computing are increasingly essential.

Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud are widely used throughout the public sector, and candidates with experience in these platforms are seeing a rise in career opportunities.

Employers value:

• Understanding cloud architecture
• Managing cloud migrations
• Ensuring system resilience and compliance
• Supporting hybrid working infrastructures

The move towards cloud-based services is only accelerating, making this one of the top digital skills for career growth in 2025.

 

5. Automation & AI Literacy

Artificial intelligence and automation are rapidly transforming how councils deliver services. From chatbots supporting customer enquiries to automated workflows in back-office systems, the public sector is embracing smarter technology.

You don’t need to be an AI engineer to contribute — simply understanding how AI works and how automation can streamline processes is hugely beneficial.

In-demand capabilities include:

• Familiarity with automation tools
• Understanding how AI enhances user experience
• Ability to identify opportunities for process improvement
• Awareness of ethical considerations and responsible AI practices

Roles connected to service redesign, IT development, data science and operations increasingly expect a baseline understanding of AI trends.

 

6. Digital Communication & Content Skills

Strong communication skills have always been important, but digital transformation has reshaped what this means in the public sector. Teams must now engage communities through online channels, manage digital content, and support the shift to self-service platforms.

Key digital communication skills councils look for include:

• Writing clear, accessible digital content
• Understanding user needs and behaviour
• Creating content for websites, portals and social media
• Using accessibility standards (WCAG)

Professionals who can simplify complex information and improve online user journeys are highly valued, especially as councils continue moving more services online.

 

7. Software & Systems Proficiency

Public sector employers appreciate candidates who can adapt quickly to a variety of digital tools and management systems. While every council uses slightly different platforms, the core skills remain consistent.

Beneficial experience includes:

• CRM systems
• Case management platforms
• HR and payroll systems
• Housing or social care software
• E-procurement and finance systems

Even for non-technical roles, having confidence with new software can significantly improve employability in public sector jobs.

 

Why Digital Skills Matter  

The public sector is undergoing its most significant period of digital transformation in decades. Councils are modernising legacy systems, enhancing their digital presence and adapting to hybrid working — meaning digital confidence is now fundamental across almost every role.

Having the top digital skills doesn’t just improve your job prospects; it also:

• increases your earning potential
• opens doors to promotion
• makes you adaptable across departments
• boosts job satisfaction through greater confidence and efficiency

Whether you're entering the sector for the first time or aiming to progress, building your digital skillset is one of the most valuable investments you can make.

 

Final Thoughts

As we move through 2025, the demand for digital talent in council jobs and public sector jobs will continue to grow. From data literacy and cloud computing to cybersecurity and AI awareness, employers want professionals who can help deliver modern, accessible, efficient services.

The good news? Most of these skills can be developed through training, online learning and on-the-job experience. With the right mindset and continuous development, anyone can build the digital capabilities needed to thrive in today’s public sector.