UK ERP Workforce Trends to Watch in 2026
As 2026 begins, ERP programmes across the UK are becoming more complex and ambitious. Cloud adoption is well established, intelligent functionality is increasingly embedded, and organisations face pressure to deliver measurable value quickly.
For UK ERP leaders and programme heads, success depends as much on the capability of their teams as on the technology itself. Workforce strategy is central to delivering complex, multi-module ERP programmes efficiently and reducing operational risk.
Here are the key trends shaping the UK ERP workforce this year.
Cloud ERP Expertise Remains Critical
Cloud-first ERP strategies are now standard, with UK organisations deploying scalable solutions to support growth and transformation. Platforms such as NetSuite, IFS and Epicor continue to be widely implemented, reflecting the demand for flexible, multi-functional ERP systems.
This has driven strong demand for professionals who can deliver end-to-end cloud ERP projects, including implementation, migration, optimisation and post-go-live support. Candidates who understand how to navigate complex, multi-module systems and translate functionality into operational impact are particularly sought after.
Cloud capability is now a baseline requirement for teams delivering ambitious ERP programmes.
Analytics and Insight Skills Move to the Core
ERP platforms are becoming increasingly intelligent, with embedded reporting, predictive functionality and automation forming part of everyday operations.
UK organisations are looking for professionals who can interpret data, optimise workflows and guide stakeholders in making informed decisions. Business intelligence, reporting and analytics skills alongside ERP knowledge are now essential across delivery teams.
Teams that can unlock actionable insights are helping organisations accelerate ROI and deliver transformation at scale.
Sector and Functional Expertise Drives Success
ERP programmes in the UK are highly sector-specific. Manufacturing, distribution, engineering and service-led organisations are prioritising professionals who bring both technical know-how and operational understanding.
Candidates who understand sector workflows, and how systems support them, reduce risk and accelerate value delivery. They are able to map complex functionality to real-world outcomes, ensuring projects remain on schedule and aligned with business priorities.
This combination of technical and functional expertise is particularly valuable for programmes supporting service management, asset-intensive operations, or fast-growing mid-market businesses.
Integration and Hybrid Delivery Skills Are Essential
Modern ERP environments rarely operate in isolation. Integration with finance, HR, CRM and wider digital ecosystems is standard, creating demand for professionals who can manage APIs, middleware and hybrid architectures.
Hybrid delivery models – combining remote and onsite working – are now embedded across UK ERP programmes. Teams that communicate clearly, coordinate across locations and manage stakeholders effectively are increasingly valued.
Skills Shortages Continue to Shape Hiring
Demand for experienced ERP professionals continues to outpace supply, particularly where cloud, analytics and sector expertise intersect.
UK organisations are responding by planning workforce needs early, streamlining recruitment processes, and leveraging specialist partners to access the right talent efficiently. Speed and clarity in hiring decisions are increasingly a competitive advantage.
Upskilling Internal Teams Gains Momentum
With certain skills in short supply, organisations are investing in developing their existing ERP teams. Targeted upskilling across cloud functionality, analytics and platform-specific capabilities helps strengthen delivery capacity while reducing reliance on scarce external talent.
Upskilling also enhances resilience, preparing teams for ongoing platform evolution and future transformation projects.
Looking Ahead
In 2026, UK ERP programmes succeed when teams combine cloud expertise, analytics insight, sector knowledge and integration capability. High-performing teams are the difference between smooth delivery and costly delays.
ERP leaders who align workforce strategy with long-term programme ambitions are best placed to maintain momentum, reduce risk, and maximise value – whether rolling out multi-module solutions like NetSuite, IFS or Epicor, or optimising other ERP systems.
If you want to discuss any of this in more detail, don't hesitate to get in touch.
