UK employers could unlock more than £500bn in productivity by using artificial intelligence to overhaul recruitment, a new LinkedIn analysis suggests.

The findings point to growing corporate interest in automating the most time-consuming parts of hiring, such as screening CVs, drafting job adverts, and sourcing candidates. AI platforms are already being deployed to speed up these stages, allowing recruitment teams to focus on strategic workforce planning and candidate engagement.

Adoption, however, remains uneven. Most UK recruiters report limited AI training despite expectations from leadership teams to build future-ready workforces. Regional differences also persist, with most AI-related vacancies and skill development concentrated in London. Outside the capital, progress has been slower, reflecting broader disparities in digital investment and infrastructure.

Separate studies highlight both the promise and the pitfalls of automation. Research by the Alan Turing Institute and the Institute for Ethical AI has shown that hiring algorithms can mirror existing workplace biases, while HR surveys reveal widespread concern that automated processes weaken the human connection during hiring.

Data from other consultancies reinforce the mixed picture. EY’s latest analysis finds that demand for AI expertise is rising across financial services boards, though few firms have the governance to manage the ethical and operational risks it entails. Meanwhile, surveys indicate that while automation has accelerated candidate screening, high early-stage turnover remains common, suggesting that efficiency alone does not guarantee better recruitment outcomes.

Browne Jacobson has advised Norway-based Milient Software AS, backed by private equity investor Monterro, on its acquisition of UK software provider Cubic Interactive Limited, trading as Rapport3. The move strengthens Milient’s foothold in the UK project management software market and forms part of its wider European expansion strategy.

Milient develops digital management platforms for architects, engineers, and other professional service firms. Rapport3 delivers a project and resource management system tailored to similar users, making it a strong strategic fit for Milient’s growing portfolio.

Browne Jacobson’s private equity team, led by Partner Gareth Davies and supported by Principal Associate Matthew Dorman and Associate Jonathan Bradley, provided legal advice on the transaction, with additional input from the firm’s tax and employment specialists.

Gareth Davies, Partner at Browne Jacobson, commented: “Supporting Milient Software and Monterro for the second time on their UK expansion underscores a broader market trend: the growing confidence of overseas investors in UK tech. This transaction is a powerful signal that international capital continues to back the UK’s world-class technology sector. It has been a pleasure to work with the team again and see their continued growth into the UK market. Our wider Private Equity practice is acting on an increasing number of international deals year on year, and this transaction is another example of our leading position in the mid-market space.”

Simon Nystrom, Investment Manager at Monterro, added: “We’ve been impressed by the quality and innovation within the British software sector, and Rapport3’s expertise and client base make this a highly strategic addition to our business. Browne Jacobson’s deep understanding of cross-border transactions and the UK market has been invaluable. This is our second deal together, and their commercial approach and technical excellence made the process seamless.”

The acquisition reflects continued investor confidence in UK software firms and highlights the growing interest of international funds in supporting the country’s expanding technology landscape.

Vaillant Group UK’s manufacturing facility in Derby welcomed a royal visit to mark its growing role in the UK’s low-carbon heating sector. The 12,200-square-metre plant, located near the company’s Belper headquarters, produces uniSTOR high-recovery hot water cylinders designed for both traditional and low-temperature heating systems.

The visit included a guided tour of the factory and an overview of the company’s production process for its cylinder range. Apprentices specialising in welding and engineering were among those who met guests, highlighting Vaillant’s investment in developing technical skills to support the transition to cleaner heating technologies.

Henrik Hansen, Managing Director of Vaillant Group UK and Ireland, said:

“It was an honour to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to our manufacturing site. She was able to view the innovating manufacturing process we have developed to support the growth of low carbon home heating systems. We are very proud of the contribution we are making to help customers transition to cleaner energy use through our technology and manufacturing excellence based in the East Midlands.”

Local and regional leaders attended the event, including representatives from Derby City Council, the Lord-Lieutenant’s office, and business and community partners such as Derby Museums, Derby College, and Marketing Derby.

The Derby plant, opened as part of Vaillant’s 150th anniversary celebrations, forms part of the company’s long-term strategy to expand its UK manufacturing capabilities. The facility has increased local employment and created apprenticeship opportunities, strengthening the East Midlands’ contribution to the low-carbon economy.