Dynamic growth in the IT sector
The IT sector in Germany is growing dynamically, driven by increasing digitalization in all areas of life. Companies are increasingly investing in digital transformation in order to remain competitive and tap into new business opportunities.
The German Federal Statistical Office's annual survey on the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in companies shows that around one in eight companies (12%) in Germany already uses artificial intelligence (AI) by 2023. Large companies with 250 or more employees use AI technologies 35% of the time, significantly more often than small and medium-sized companies.
The market volume for information technology in Germany exceeded 100 billion euros for the first time in 2023 and will continue to grow. According to Bitkom, the German Association for Information Technology, Telecommunications and New Media, revenues are expected to reach 160.5 billion euros by 2025. This represents growth of 6.2% compared to 2024.
These developments are creating a high demand for skilled IT professionals with the knowledge and skills to design, implement and manage complex technologies.
Record skills shortage in Germany
Despite the dynamic growth of the IT sector, Germany, like many other European countries, is suffering from a shortage of IT professionals. Bitkom's study on the job market for IT specialists in 2023 found 149,000 unfilled vacancies for IT experts in Germany - 12,000 more than the previous year. Three-quarters of the companies surveyed in the study expect the situation to worsen. On average, IT positions remain vacant for 7.7 months.
There are many reasons for the skills shortage, including the impact of digitization and the resulting changes in the job market. Job types and sectors are shifting, and the demand for certain skills is changing. Other factors include rapid technological change and demographic change (aging populations).
Opportunities for skilled workers from abroad
This shortage is a great opportunity for skilled workers from abroad to start or advance their careers in Germany. Many companies are very open to international applicants and offer support in integrating into the job market and local culture. This is especially true for IT companies in Germany, which are already very international. Many of these companies work in global teams and offer their employees the opportunity to work with colleagues from all over the world and gain international experience. This not only creates an inspiring work environment, but also allows you to expand your professional network and learn from different cultural perspectives.
Varied career opportunities and attractive working conditions
Career opportunities for IT professionals in Germany are diverse. From software development to data analytics and IT security, there is a wide range of specialties in demand for talented professionals. Many companies offer flexible work models that allow employees to work around their individual needs, whether through remote working, part-time employment or flexible hours.
Working conditions and compensation in the IT sector are among the most attractive in Germany and Europe. Companies often offer generous salaries, bonuses and benefits to attract and retain talented professionals. In addition, many companies offer training and development opportunities that allow employees to continually improve their skills.
In Germany, there is a high demand for professionals in the following areas of the IT industry:
- Software development and programming: With increasing digitization in almost all industries, highly skilled software developers and programmers are needed to create innovative solutions and optimize existing systems.
- Data analytics and artificial intelligence: With the increasing importance of big data and AI technologies, companies are looking for specialists in data analytics, data science, and machine learning experts to gain insights from large amounts of data and develop intelligent systems.
- Cyber security: With the increasing threat of cyber attacks, cyber security has become a critical area. Companies need security professionals to protect their systems and manage emerging security risks.
- Cloud computing and IT infrastructure: Migrating business applications to the cloud and managing complex IT infrastructures requires professionals with skills in cloud technologies, networking and systems administration.
- E-commerce and digital marketing: Online retail continues to grow, creating a high demand for IT professionals with expertise in e-commerce platforms, digital marketing, and customer experience management.
Working in a leadership position
Are you looking for a leadership position? The prospects are generally good in Germany as well. Many companies value the combination of technical expertise and management skills, so qualified IT professionals have a good chance of advancing to middle or senior management positions.
Enhance your career opportunities by complementing your technical expertise with a globally recognized MBA degree. Our MBA in European/Asian Management program at IGC is designed for (IT) professionals with strong technical skills who want to expand their business knowledge and develop leadership skills. The full-time, English-language program is characterized by a high degree of internationality and practical relevance.
Access to the German job market with the EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card makes it possible! It is a special residence permit for foreign academics or people with comparable qualifications that promotes the permanent immigration of highly qualified people from non-EU countries to the EU. Simplified conditions apply to specialists and managers in the field of information and communication technology, as this occupational field is one of the so-called shortage occupations (conditions and requirements).
