Hexaware, the Indian IT services firm, just opened a new office in Canary Wharf, London. This move is a key part of its expansion plans as it aims to capture business from the UK public sector. The landscape is shifting; traditional IT suppliers like Fujitsu are facing challenges, creating openings for companies like Hexaware.
Historically, Indian IT suppliers struggled to penetrate the UK public sector due to concerns about data security and job outsourcing. However, like Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Hexaware sees this as a prime opportunity. TCS has already established connections with UK public bodies and expressed optimism about the market’s potential.
Right now, Hexaware’s customer base in the UK includes Yorkshire Water and Lloyds Banking Group, but public sector work accounts for only about 5% of its UK operations. Amrinder Singh, Hexaware’s leader for EMEA and APAC, remarked that the UK public sector is becoming more receptive to Indian suppliers.
Singh pointed out an urgent need for efficiency through technology, noting the public sector’s past reliance on a handful of large players. With challenges facing Fujitsu and others, the timing seems right for Hexaware to step in.
Looking ahead, if Hexaware achieves its goal of shifting 50% of its work to AI by 2030, its UK workforce is set to expand. Currently, the company employs around 650 people in the UK, out of a global total of 30,000. Singh emphasized that while the firm will need more human resources, the nature of those roles will evolve.
His vision includes training staff to effectively leverage AI, ensuring everyone has a solid understanding of technology and domain knowledge. Hexaware is encouraging innovation through a “playground” initiative, allowing employees to experiment with AI applications. Staff can propose automation projects and participate in hackathons, fast-tracking their careers along the way.