A labour market in transition: the impact on jobs and skills needed in tomorrow’s workforce

A labour market in transition: the impact on jobs and skills needed in tomorrow’s workforce

 
 
 

The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 highlights how global macro trends—technological advancements, the green transition, economic shifts, and demographic changes—are fundamentally transforming the labour market. While new opportunities emerge, significant job displacement will also occur, emphasising the critical role of continuous learning and skill development. For both businesses and individuals, staying ahead means investing in digital expertise, creativity, and leadership—the cornerstones of tomorrow’s workforce.

Some key statistics from the report

Drawing insights from over 1,000 leading global employers, the report offers valuable perspectives on the anticipated transformations between 2025 and 2030.

-          Over the next five years, it is predicted that we will see 170 million new jobs across various sectors.

-          92 million roles will be displaced, primarily due to automation and shifting market demands​.

-          1 090 million jobs will continue to evolve, requiring workers to adapt and reskill.

-          We will see a net employment increase of 78 million​.

Fastest-Growing Jobs by 2030

While emerging tech-driven roles such as big data specialists, fintech engineers, and AI specialists are rapidly increasing, the largest absolute job growth will be in foundational professions critical to global economies.

The predicted top five fastest-growing jobs include:

  1. Farm workers, labourers, and agricultural workers – The largest job increase, driven by sustainability efforts and food security needs.

  2. Light truck or delivery drivers – E-commerce expansion and urban logistics growth fuel demand.

  3. Software and application developers – Digitalisation across industries drives continuous hiring.

  4. Building framers, finishers, and related trades workers – Infrastructure development sustains employment growth.

  5. Shop salespersons – Retail remains strong despite automation​.

    Other high-growth professions include food processing workers, nursing professionals, teachers, and project managers, reflecting both demographic trends and evolving economic needs​.

Fastest-Declining Jobs by 2030

Roles impacted by automation, digitisation, and process optimisation are expected to decline.

 The predicted top five fastest-declining jobs are:

  1. Cashiers and ticket clerks – Contactless payment and automated checkout systems replace human-operated transactions.

  2. Administrative assistants and executive secretaries – AI-powered scheduling and document management reduce the need for manual administration.

  3. Building caretakers, cleaners, and housekeepers – Automation and robotics are streamlining labour-intensive tasks.

  4. Material recording and stock-keeping clerks – Inventory management systems minimise manual tracking.

  5. Printing and related trades workers – The shift to digital media reduces demand for print-based roles​.

Other shrinking roles are likely to include accountants, bank tellers, customer service workers, data entry clerks, and graphic designers, underscoring the impact of digital transformation​.

Skills for the Future Workforce

By 2030, 39% of core job skills will change, requiring workers to embrace lifelong learning.

The most in-demand skills include:

  • Technological skills – AI, big data, networks, cybersecurity, and digital literacy.

  • Soft skills – Creative thinking, resilience, adaptability, and curiosity.

  • Leadership and management – Social influence, talent development, and analytical thinking.

  • Sustainability focus – Environmental stewardship gains prominence across industries​.

Companies are increasingly investing in reskilling and upskilling initiatives to ensure their workforce remains competitive in the evolving job market.

 

Conclusion

The Future of Jobs Report 2025 underscores the need for adaptability in a rapidly changing labour market. The jobs of the future will demand a mix of technical and human skills. By staying informed about emerging trends and proactively developing relevant skills, both employers and employees can navigate the evolving landscape and seise new opportunities.

As the speed of change in almost all dimensions of life increases, the labour market and business landscape is affected and so the recipe for great leadership will also be challenged. Based on insights from decades of interactions with business leaders and knowledge from leadership theories and research we at Alumni Global claim that building durable businesses require leaders that show characteristics that include humanity, authenticity, drive for growth and an agile mindset. Having develop processes to identify these competencies in leaders and tools to assess and develop them. You can read more about what know is needed of our leadership our new business landscape here.

 
 

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