Demand for digital skills outstripped supply in Scotland last year and the appetite for new tech talent looks set to increase again this year.
Polly Purvis, chief executive of digital technologies trade body ScotlandIS, said 2015 had been an exceptional year for the sector and confidence remained high, with two-thirds of firms planning to increase employee numbers this year.
The most sought after skills sets are software and web development while more traditional business attributes such as project management, sales and marketing were also in demand.
“Last year was an exceptional year in terms of demand for new staff and demand continues to outstrip supply,” Ms Purvis said.
“Most of our members report difficulties in finding the staff they need, so we must continue efforts to develop a strong and sustainable talent pipeline.”
The group’s annual industry survey found 68% of digi tech firms achieved sales growth last year, with a quarter increasing turnover by more than 20%.
More than four-fifths of the 192 companies surveyed said they expected sales to increase again this year, with 70% optimistic about future trading.
The international profile of the digital sector was again underlined with more than 60% of respondents having exported their product or service during the past year.
According to industry research, the digi tech sector employs 84,000 people and generates more than £5 billion in gross value added to the Scottish economy annually.
Ms Purvis said there was still significant growth to be had.
“Scotland has the potential to create 70,000 new digital technologies jobs over the next five years but investment in connectivity, skills, research and to provide growth capital will be needed to ensure we can take advantage of global and domestic opportunities.”