Ofcom announces new Manchester tech hub – and 150 roles

Regulator Ofcom has 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, which regulates communications in the UK – from broadcasting to telecoms and the postal service, said it wanted to tap into the region’s tech talent.

The news comes as Ofcom prepares for new duties to help make the internet safer – in addition to a new role making sure network firms have adequate cyber security.

To help prepare for this Ofcom will be seeking new recruits to provide digital and technical expertise for the new Manchester hub.

It said it wanted to draw on the city’s reputation as a thriving centre for technology and innovation with GCHQ and the National Cyber Security Centre, some of the regulator’s partner organisations, already having Manchester bases.

The new hub is expected be operational by the summer.

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

Dame Melanie Dawes, CEO 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.”