Insurance Business · 23 Oct, 05:37 · Technology briefing

Willis launches defence unit as UK spending hits £298 billion plan

Willis Towers Watson has established a dedicated defence and national security unit, responding to the UK government’s plan to increase defence spending to £298 billion.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

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Willis Towers Watson has established a dedicated defence and national security unit, responding to the UK government’s plan to increase defence spending to £298 billion. This strategic move aligns with broader geopolitical shifts and heightened national security priorities. The new division aims to provide specialised advisory services, including risk management, talent strategy, and operational resilience, to defence contractors and public sector entities. This development signals a significant expansion in professional services tailored to the defence sector, reflecting increased investment and complexity in the industry.

Employer demand for Medical Physics skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

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This expansion creates immediate demand for specialists who understand the intersection of risk, security, and strategic advisory. If you possess expertise in governance or compliance, your skills are now highly transferable to defence clients. You should focus on understanding the unique regulatory landscape of the defence sector. Professionals in risk management and project delivery must adapt to the specific constraints and security protocols of government contracts. To stay ahead, you should upskill in defence-specific compliance frameworks and risk assessment methodologies. Consider networking with firms like Willis or defence primes to understand their evolving needs. A smart move is to highlight any experience in high-stakes, regulated environments, positioning yourself as a candidate who can navigate complex security requirements while delivering strategic value.

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