London tech industry firmly aware of the "Leeds digital revolution"

A Leeds delegation showcased the “digital revolution” that’s happening in the city whilst attending Silicon Milk Roundabout, London’s tech industry job fair.

The growing number of tech vacancies, competitive salaries and an accessible housing market were identified as some of the main reasons for London-based digital graduates and professionals wanting to advance their careers in Leeds.

In addition, Herd founder Amy De-Balsi, who led the Leeds Tech team at the two-day event on Brick Lane, also claimed that digital companies are giving serious consideration to switching their operations to Yorkshire.

Supported by Leeds City Council and Leeds BID, the Leeds representatives had a dedicated space at Silicon Milk Roundabout which was attended by more than 3,000 pre-registered candidates and 175 digital and tech companies.

Ms De-Balsi said the decision to travel to the capital to promote the Leeds digital and tech sector – comprising 1,350 companies and more than 10,000 employees - had already paid dividends.

Ms De-Balsi said: “We returned with more than 50 CVs from people actively seeking their next role. There were also many others who took away information to pass to friends who had expressed an interest in relocating to Leeds.

“And we spoke to two growing digital companies with plans to open offices in London but, upon reflection, now regard Leeds as a more attractive option.”

Amy, who organised the Leeds Digital Job in February, said the trip also proved to be a valuable industry education.

She explained: “It is perfectly clear that major coding schools such as General Assembly are producing graduates happy to come to Leeds.

“We just need to make them better informed about the many opportunities that exist in the city including more than 640 tech job vacancies. And the same can be said for global digital talent already established in London but looking for their next move.

“Our messages about the quality of life in Leeds, the competitive salaries and, crucially, housing prices in comparison to London had real resonance with the people we met.

“Rather than run our own job fair in London, the Leeds Digital Job’s Board’s decision to hitch our wagon to Silicon Milk Roundabout proved to be inspired.

“London can expect to hear much more about the Leeds digital revolution in the time ahead.”