Up to 21,000 big data jobs in next 4 years

The advent of big data has the potential to fundamentally change the way in which Irish businesses operate and could open the door for more than 20,000 new jobs, according to new research.

Up to 21,000 jobs could be created in the data analytics sector in the next four years.

Speaking at a Chartered Global Management Accountant conference — held by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) — chair and EMC Ireland MD Bob Savage said adopting a data analytics strategy is a key component of ensuring Irish firms’ continued success.

“There are huge benefits in adopting data analytics, like granular insight into consumer behaviour and in-depth analysis of market trends. Having that additional information brings a real competitive edge to a business.”

The CIMA-held event, in partnership with Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) heard that the 21,000 potential jobs could be delivered across three specific sectors.

Una Halligan, chairperson of the Government’s expert group on future skills needs, said 3,000 employees with deep analytical talent could be needed in the coming years, as well as 17,500 workers in big data savvy roles, all of which would require the support of almost 9,000 further tech workers.

“Thanks to incredible advances in data science, we can capture, store and analyse this information to provide value in the real world. In Ireland, and indeed in Cork, there are myriad opportunities for businesses to take advantage of their collected data to increase efficiency, productivity and profit,” Dr Aoife O’Driscoll of CIT said.