BT Group to create new jobs in Ipswich with 600-role recruitment drive

Why it matters: The expansion by the UK's leading private-sector apprenticeship employer will create new opportunities in growing digital sectors including cyber security, software engineering, and customer service.

The big picture: BT Group has recruited more than 3,000 apprentices and graduates over the past five years, with Ipswich named among 11 locations set to benefit from this latest recruitment drive.

By the numbers:

• More than 600 positions available nationwide

• 11 locations including Ipswich

• 3,000 apprentices and graduates recruited in past five years

What they're saying: "I'm incredibly proud of the opportunities we provide to develop new talent at BT Group and recognise the valuable contributions graduates and apprentices bring to the workforce," Athalie Williams, Chief Human Resources Officer at BT Group, said.

Success story: Ipswich-based apprentice researcher Zainab Onikoyi, who moved from London to join BT in September 2023, chose the apprenticeship route because she learns best through trial and error and from mirroring the behaviors of others. Her role includes working on server power optimisation and cyber security research, using tools such as Python and data analysis techniques.

For context: The company was named the UK's leading private sector company for apprentices in 2024, recognising its commitment to creating new apprenticeships, the diversity of apprentices, and successful completion rates.

The bottom line: This recruitment drive represents a significant opportunity for local people to join one of the UK's largest apprenticeship programmes, with positions available from September 2025.