26 March 2021

Ofcom to build tech hub in Manchester ahead of online safety role

  • Communications regulator’s new hub expected to create up to 150 digital, cybersecurity and technology jobs in the North West

Ofcom today announced plans to open a major new digital and technology hub in Manchester, with the creation of up to 150 new jobs by 2025.

Ofcom regulates communications in the UK – from broadcasting to telecoms and the postal service. It is now preparing for new duties to help make the internet a safer place1 – in addition to a new role making sure network firms have adequate cyber security.

The new online regulation will be a world first. To help prepare, Ofcom will be seeking new recruits to provide digital and technical expertise for the new Manchester hub – drawing on the city’s reputation as a thriving centre for technology and innovation. The new hub is expected be operational by the summer.

The city offers a highly skilled workforce, alongside the research strengths of world-class universities and their deep pool of graduate talent. Some of Ofcom’s partner organisations – including GCHQ and the National Cyber Security Centre – already have Manchester bases.

Ofcom will also be expanding in Cardiff, Belfast and Edinburgh, offering a range of roles across our remit of work.

Dame Melanie Dawes, Chief Executive of Ofcom said: “We’re delighted to be preparing for a new digital and technology hub in Manchester. We want to tap into the huge array of tech, digital and data talent in the city, as we prepare for pioneering new work around online safety and security.”

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “We look forward to welcoming Ofcom to Greater Manchester. Ofcom’s decision to locate its digital hub in Manchester is further testament to our city-region’s growing prominence as a centre for high technology skills and investment.

Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council said: “Manchester has always been at the heart of innovation and industry for the UK. I’m pleased to see organisations like Ofcom recognise the quality of tech talent we have here and look forward to working with them.”

Notes to editors

  1. In late 2020, the UK government confirmed its intention to appoint Ofcom as the regulator for online harms in the UK.
  1. The Government expects the Online Safety Bill, which will set out the regulatory framework for online harms, will be ready in 2021. It will then need to pass through Parliament to become law at a later stage.

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