The employment market is seeing a radical change of jobs in demand – a movement driven by technology and global trends that will only intensify in the next five to 10 years. For those starting their career or determined to keep their rise to the top on track, an understanding of the future skills sought by employers is essential.  

Tech advancements, automation and the onset of artificial intelligence are transforming industries, leading to the need to acquire new skill sets to succeed. In addition, the march of globalisation is ushering increased interconnectedness and trade patterns, which will affect future jobs. Another key factor is climate change which is driving the push for sustainability and demand for so-called green jobs that require a sound knowledge of environmental issues and policies. 

The pandemic has also shifted work patterns towards remote and hybrid models in many parts of the world. Juan Pierre Dorfling, Gough Recruitment’s Managing Director for Asia, says remuneration will always play a part in the career paths and jobs people seek. However, he has noted that top-quality candidates are increasingly seeking roles where there is a better work-life balance and more flexibility.

On the flip side of employees seeking flexible work is the major disruption to skills required in the workplace that has occurred already and will continue. The Future of Jobs Report 2023 compiled by the Swiss-based think-tank World Economic Forum estimates that 44% of workers’ skills will be disrupted in the next five years. The report is based on survey-based data covering the expectations of a wide cross-section of the world’s largest employers and relates to the years 2023-2027.

Tech-savvy hiring

Like many analysts, he expects AI tools will be integrated into the daily workflow to perform routine processes. Indeed, the World Economic Forum indicates that more than 75% of companies are looking to adopt big data, cloud computing and AI feature technologies in the next five years. Education and workforce technologies are also a high priority for many companies surveyed. 

Data-driven

The good news is that the impact of most technologies on jobs is expected to be a net positive over the next three years, according to the World Economic Forum. Big data analytics, climate change and environmental management technologies, and encryption and cybersecurity are expected to be the biggest drivers of job growth.

“Data scientists who analyse big data to inform business decisions will be in demand,” says Dorfling, adding: “As digital transformation progresses, protecting data will be paramount. Skills related to green-energy solutions will also see growing demand. Healthcare workers, particularly those specialising in mental health and geriatric care, will also grow in demand.”

Roles of the future

Professions in demand now and for the future include AI ethicists, whose role is to ensure AI systems are developed and used ethically, and cybersecurity analysts dedicated to protecting systems and data from cyber threats. The latter’s job description may span ethical hacking and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities, monitoring and analysing network traffic for suspicious activity, and managing and mitigating security breaches.

Other desirable new tech jobs are IoT (Internet of Things) architects, who design interconnected systems and devices, and AR/VR developers, who create immersive virtual and augmented reality experiences. Renewable energy consultants who advise on the implementation and optimisation of sustainable energy solutions also possess highly marketable skills.

Secure jobs

Despite the technological advances and macroeconomic developments affecting job prospects, certain types of employment are unlikely to go out of favour. The education sector will continue to attract teachers and staff to develop future generations, while chefs, farmers and food service workers will remain in demand. Healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses and carers, for instance, will always be needed as the global population ages, and trade skills such as plumbers and electricians will remain essential.

Conversely, of course, many jobs will be threatened over the ensuing years as technology and digitalisation begin to bite. The World Economic Forum report predicts the fastest-declining roles will be clerical or secretarial, with the employability of bank tellers, postal service clerks, cashiers, ticket clerks, and data-entry clerks most at risk. 

Hong Kong adaptability

Not only is the Hong Kong labour market affected by these global structural changes, emerging local and regional economic policies such as the Greater Bay Area initiative will also impact job opportunities, says Dorfling. He believes there will be a growing local need for tech-savvy workers as more industries digitalise, and many will require training so they are better able to adapt to technology. “Proficiency in Chinese and English will become increasingly valuable,” he notes.

Given Hong Kong’s established role as a financial hub, he forecasts FinTech knowledge will be crucial. He also foresees the healthcare and biotechnology sectors playing an increasingly important role due to the city’s ageing population and increased health awareness. 

Growth in these areas of the local economy will drive the need for in-demand specialist skills like artificial intelligence and machine learning. Dorfling also sees sustainability consultants enjoying an uptick in fortune as businesses transition to eco-friendly practices. 

Barriers to success

He is concerned, however, that there may be a lag in Hong Kong education systems adapting to the new skills required. As companies face challenges in navigating new regulations in areas of embryonic technology development, he suggests other jurisdictions may have adapted to innovation and regulations rather more effectively. Another worry is that both employees and companies may struggle with the cultural shift towards remote work.

Inequities in technology access can create a digital divide. According to the World Economic Forum survey, only half of workers are seen to have access to adequate learning opportunities.

Change to thrive

As a seasoned HR specialist, Dorfling advocates lifelong learning and embracing innovation. “Continuously updating skills and knowledge is crucial,” he says, advising those in the workforce to “build and maintain professional connections within and outside your industry”. 

He also recommends being open to change and willing to pivot careers if necessary, plus maintaining a strong online presence and professional brand. A focus on well-being is increasingly important, too. He notes: “As the lines between work and personal life blur, prioritising mental and physical health is essential.”