Skills and roles businesses can’t ignore in 2025
The professional landscape in 2025 is set to be defined by accelerated technological advancements and complex regulatory shifts. With artificial intelligence (AI) leading industry transformation and government policies adding pressure to already tight margins, businesses must adapt or risk falling behind.
Recent report by Core-Asset Consulting identifies five functional areas that will dominate recruitment strategies in 2025, reflecting the evolving needs of businesses navigating unprecedented complexity.
AI and automation are no longer futuristic concepts; they are now integral to improving operational efficiency and supporting strategic decisions. The pace of digital transformation is expected to accelerate further in 2025, with businesses seeking to harness these tools to stay competitive.
In-demand roles:
Why it matters: Organizations that fail to adopt advanced technologies will see declining productivity and competitiveness. The demand for these roles will surge as businesses look to increase automation and reduce costs.
Increased scrutiny from regulators and the complexity of new compliance frameworks are setting a high bar for operational resilience. Companies must remain vigilant, ensuring adherence to updated policies while managing risks effectively.
In-demand roles:
Why it matters: As regulators enforce stricter guidelines, particularly in sectors like finance, healthcare, and energy, companies must invest in skilled professionals who can navigate and adapt to these changes.
Cybercrime and digital fraud remain persistent threats, with businesses of all sizes at risk of severe operational disruptions. The introduction of new regulations around fraud prevention and data protection will add urgency to the need for fortified cybersecurity strategies.
In-demand roles:
Why it matters: Beyond the immediate financial impact of breaches, cybersecurity failures can erode stakeholder trust, making this area a critical focus for every organization.
Adapting to change is not optional—it’s a necessity. The relentless pace of organizational transformation, whether driven by external pressures or internal restructuring, requires leaders and teams equipped to guide businesses through uncertainty.
In-demand roles:
Why it matters: Change fatigue is a growing concern. Skilled change managers will be critical in ensuring transformations are not only executed but embraced across organizations.
New UK tax regulations set to take effect from April 2024 and anticipated updates to US tax policies will heighten demand for specialized expertise in managing complex tax structures. From cross-border compliance to personal wealth advisory, tax professionals will play a crucial role in navigating this challenging landscape.
In-demand roles:
Why it matters: Effective tax management directly impacts an organization’s bottom line. Securing the right talent in this area can help mitigate risks and uncover cost-saving opportunities.
While specific technical expertise will be vital, Betsy Williamson, founder and CEO of Core-Asset Consulting, emphasizes that adaptability and a proactive approach to upskilling will often matter more than past experience.
“With the labour market and the world of work exceptionally volatile right now, businesses need workers that are able to constantly adapt, pivot and upskill in order to navigate known and unknown challenges ahead. Professionals that are able to demonstrate these skills will set themselves up for the most success when it comes to career progression in 2025.”