Kyndryl to create 1,000 software and AI jobs with new innovation hub in Liverpool

Kyndryl has unveiled plans to create 1,000 new jobs in software engineering and artificial intelligence (AI) over the next three years as part of its newly launched AI Innovation Lab in Liverpool. The new facility, based in the iconic Royal Liver Building, is aimed at helping businesses adopt emerging technologies and accelerate their digital transformation strategies.

The site already employs around 100 AI and software engineering specialists and will now serve as a central hub for advisory services, platform engineering, and co-creation of AI-driven solutions through Kyndryl Vital Studio, a collaborative space led by Kyndryl Consult.

“With businesses eager to develop AI capabilities, our new Kyndryl AI Innovation Lab Liverpool represents a significant step in addressing the AI skills gap,” said John Chambers, president of Kyndryl UK and Ireland. “Only 29% of leaders currently feel prepared for AI-related challenges, yet the demand for these skills continues to grow.”

Investing in talent and innovation

In addition to full-time roles, Kyndryl plans to launch an early careers program for degree apprentices, with a strong focus on AI and data science—providing new opportunities for young talent in the region to enter one of the fastest-growing areas in tech.

The lab’s opening reflects a broader mission: to ensure AI development is ethical, inclusive, and locally impactful. The building itself aligns with that ethos—it runs on 100% renewable energy, has won multiple Green Apple Environmental awards, and even hosts a rooftop beehive producing honey since 2022.

Strengthening local partnerships

As part of the lab's debut, Kyndryl is expanding its partnership with The Very Group, the Liverpool-based parent company of digital retailers Very and Littlewoods. Under a new multi-year agreement, Kyndryl will provide end-to-end software and platform engineering support to help the retailer launch new products faster and enhance digital customer experiences.

“Kyndryl’s new AI Innovation Lab is a major investment in our region and a massive show of confidence in the talent we have here,” said Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region. “It will bring up to 1,000 quality jobs, apprenticeships, and training opportunities for local people — helping to put our residents at the heart of one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world.”

A vision for ethical AI

Rotheram emphasized the city’s commitment to building an AI ecosystem focused on real-world impact.

“I want the Liverpool City Region to be a leader in artificial intelligence, but the kind that makes a difference to people’s lives. AI that’s ethical, inclusive, and used for good,” he said.

The Liverpool AI Innovation Lab is one of Kyndryl’s largest regional investments to date, and signals the company’s long-term commitment to growing the UK's AI capabilities while nurturing homegrown tech talent.