03.10.25

AI Talent is the real Key to AI Success...

Over the past 12 months, we have seen a noticeable shift. 

AI is no longer a “what if” for most UK businesses - it’s a “how” or “what next?”. 

Companies are starting to push forward with AI projects, and many are already seeing real returns. Whether it’s automating processes, improving customer experience, or unlocking new revenue streams, the early adopters are proving AI is more than hype.

But here’s the catch. For every success story, there are plenty of organisations stuck in pilot mode, or worse – making big bets with the wrong people leading the charge. And when it comes to AI, the biggest risk isn’t standing still… it’s moving forward in the wrong way.

The skills gap is the elephant in the room

Ask any tech leader what’s holding them back, and most will say the same thing: talent. There’s an undeniable shortage of AI talent in the UK – not just the senior strategists and vision-setters, but the technical doers who can deliver. These are the engineers, architects and product people who can take AI from PowerPoint slides to real-world products.

And right now, demand is far outstripping supply. That’s why we’re seeing salaries climb and competition heat up for the very best people.
Lots of talkers. Not enough doers.

Another challenge is the sheer amount of noise in the market. There are plenty of individuals and businesses claiming to “do AI”, but not all of them can deliver meaningful results. Get it wrong, and the cost isn’t just financial – it’s reputational too. Poorly executed AI can leave you with broken systems, frustrated teams and disillusioned stakeholders.

That’s why trusted people matter. Referenced, proven, and backed by reputable businesses. When you’re building something as transformative (and as sensitive) as AI, you can’t afford to gamble on ‘talkers’.

Ethics and sovereignty are now board-level conversations

It’s not just about getting AI working. Businesses are increasingly focused on how it works – is it ethical, is it fair, and where is the data going? We’re seeing more and more companies ask tough questions around AI governance and sovereignty. This isn’t just a box-ticking exercise – it’s shaping hiring decisions, partner choices and investment strategies.

What success looks like:

From what we are seeing, the companies that are thriving with AI right now all share a few things in common:
•    They start small, but with a clear use case tied to ROI.
•    They build strong technical foundations before scaling.
•    They bring in people who can deliver, not just talk about delivery.
•    They bake ethics, compliance and governance in from the start.

Simple in theory, harder in practice – but achievable with the right talent, and team.

Here’s the truth

The real danger isn’t “should we do AI?”… it’s “are we doing AI in the right way?”. Move too slow, and you risk falling behind competitors. Move too fast without the right people, and you risk mismanaging the opportunity.

That’s where we come in. At We Are Dcoded, we’re supporting businesses across the UK to secure both senior hires and technical talent who can make AI projects a success. From the leaders setting strategy, to the engineers delivering it, we make sure you’ve got trusted, referenced people in the room – not talkers.
AI is the future, but it has to be done properly. If you’re pushing ahead with projects, let’s talk.

Jay Guney | Founder
We Are Dcoded
hello@wearedcoded.com
0161 710 4880