PwC Plans Increased Graduate Hiring

PwC, a major global consultancy, announced plans to increase its graduate intake in the UK for the upcoming year, following a reduction in 2025. UK Chairman Marco Amitrano stated that the previous year's decrease in new graduate roles, from 1,500 to 1,300, was primarily due to a flagging economy, not the impact of artificial intelligence (AI). The firm anticipates growing graduate recruitment numbers in the next 12 months, despite increasing its use of AI.

Amitrano noted that new recruits are eager to work in the office and pursue career progression, countering perceptions of a less resilient younger generation. PwC received 60,000 applications for 2,000 entry-level positions, marking a 35% increase in competition. This comes as unemployment among 16-24 year-olds reached a decade-high at the end of 2025, with nearly one million individuals in this age group not in work or education.

Separately, Amitrano commented on the UK economic landscape, suggesting Chancellor Rachel Reeves should relax fiscal rules to allow for increased borrowing. He argued that additional borrowing could fund investments in technology, talent, and infrastructure, thereby attracting overseas investment and stimulating growth. The Treasury, however, affirmed its commitment to existing fiscal rules, stating they ensure borrowing and debt reduction while supporting long-term growth.