Why a strategic approach to tech talent is needed

According to the World Economic Forum, 170 million new jobs are expected by 2030[i], yet the tech labor market remains volatile due to ongoing layoffs and the pandemic-era hiring surge. As firms leverage AI driven productivity gains, roles and required skills continue to evolve, creating persistent demand for specialized talent in areas like security, machine learning, and software architecture—skills that are increasingly difficult to find and retain.

Organizations face a unique challenge: balancing cost management and economic shifts with the need to secure and develop technical talent essential for innovation and competitiveness. This ongoing tension requires a strategic, forward-looking approach to talent management, as these challenges are likely to persist and evolve over time.

The impact of AI on the tech talent landscape

AI is not merely a technological advancement; it is a disruptive and transformative force reshaping the very nature of work. While certain roles are being displaced by AI, new opportunities are emerging in AI development, implementation and maintenance.[i]

For example, job postings for roles like database developer, user experience/user interface (UX/UI) designer, and web designer/developer have decreased in recent years, while postings for statisticians, technical analysts and data scientists have significantly increased.[ii] This shift highlights the need for workers to continuously upskill and adapt to the changing demands of the tech job market.