In Russia, employers are voicing growing concerns about a tightening labor market for information technology professionals. A recent survey conducted by Yakov and Partners, the consulting firm that continues the legacy of McKinsey’s former Russian division through its partnership with HeadHunter, highlights a notable gap between demand and supply in digital skills. The findings point to a persistent shortage of talent across several key IT disciplines, with programming and web programming ranked at the top of the list of hardest-to-fill roles. This trend underscores a broader shift in tech hiring that resonates with organizations seeking to accelerate digital initiatives despite recruitment hurdles.
The study reports that 61% of employers struggle to locate candidates possessing essential digital competencies. This statistic reveals a broad-based effort to recruit talent who can contribute to complex, technology-driven projects in fast-changing markets. Within this wider shortage, programming and web programming emerged as the most acute gaps, accounting for 19% of the overall talent deficit. Other roles also face tight competition: digital marketing specialists and app developers, representing 16% and 14% of the shortfall respectively, are in high demand as companies diversify their tech stack and customer engagement strategies.
Beyond the specific skill gaps, the research notes a significant increase in the duration of the hiring process. More than half of the respondents indicate that vacancies that once closed within two months are now staying open for more than three months. This elongation has practical implications for project timelines, product roadmaps, and the ability of firms to maintain competitive momentum in a market where digital capabilities are a strategic differentiator.
Experts from HeadHunter emphasize that competitive compensation remains one of the most effective levers for attracting talent. A strong salary offer is frequently cited as the fastest path to onboarding new employees, a finding that aligns with broader market observations about the premium placed on IT expertise in today’s economy. The report suggests that transparent, market-aligned compensation packages can help bridge the gap between job openings and qualified applicants, enabling organizations to sustain critical digital initiatives even in a tightening labor market.
Earlier findings from RAEC add another layer to the narrative, noting a decline in the share of Russian IT professionals who feel optimistic about their long-term prospects within the local IT sector since the start of 2023. This sentiment shift has implications for retention and pipeline development, signaling a need for employers to invest not only in hiring but also in professional development, clear career pathways, and supportive work environments to keep skilled professionals engaged and motivated.