The number of new IT jobs created in the UK has risen 28% year-on-year, according to research conducted by Staffing Industry Analysts and Innovantage on behalf of the Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo).

The research reveals 90,416 new IT jobs were advertised on job boards in May, compared to 70,912 in May 2010. The figures are taken from APSCo’s Monthly Trends report, which analyses job vacancies and placements across the UK professional staffing sector.

Ann Swain, chief executive of APSCo, says: “It makes sense that businesses are investing in technology having reined in spending during the recession. IT is seen as key to boosting competitive advantage, so IT directors are increasingly keen to push the button on projects, which will deliver significant productivity gains. Candidates with cloud computing experience, for example, are in high demand.

“We are seeing a significant increase in demand for IT professionals, with skills shortages in some areas now becoming widespread. Candidates with niche, in-demand skills are receiving multiple job offers and double digit pay increases for switching roles are now commonplace.”