Will hiring trends change in 2025?

2025 is projected to bring a relatively benign macroeconomic scenario, with modest economic growth, inflation under control, stable energy prices and lower interest rates, but also uncertainty surrounding global trade tensions and geopolitical risks. This increased business confidence could encourage companies to step up investments in innovation, expansion, new ventures and strategic acquisitions.

Continued digital transformation across industries is likely to drive investment in both organic growth (new business initiatives) and inorganic growth (M&A) as companies look to modernize their operations, improve efficiency, and meet evolving customer demands. Companies may also focus on acquiring capabilities that will help them navigate shifts in consumer behavior, supply chain challenges, or new regulatory landscapes.

Sustainability continues to be a key driver of business strategy for many companies that will continue to invest in new business models, technologies, or acquisitions that help them meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. Companies are expected to increase the adoption of energy transition initiatives and invest in infrastructure development, aligning with global sustainability goals.

The hiring outlook for 2025 varies by region and industry, influenced by economic conditions and sector-specific demands. Certain industries and regions may experience modest job growth in the new year, although the overall landscape appears to be one of cautious optimism, with employers maintaining steady or slightly increased hiring plans.

The following sectors are expected to grow their hiring efforts, driven by economic conditions and industry demands, but keeping a continued focus on specialized skills and strategic hiring practices.

• Aerospace and Defense industry is poised for growth as ongoing geopolitical tensions are pushing countries to increase defense spending, leading to higher demand for skilled professionals. The sector is experiencing rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, hypersonic technology and sustainable technologies, such as hydrogen-powered aircraft and lightweight materials, which intensifies the need for specialized talent to develop and manage these innovations.

• Energy and Sustainability sector will keep growing as the global transition towards cleaner and renewable energy sources continues to create a demand for experts in solar, wind, batteries and electric vehicles, especially in affordable sub-brands. The digital transformation of the energy sector requires a skilled workforce capable of modernizing infrastructure and developing innovative tools for a cleaner, more efficient energy future. Stricter sustainability reporting and disclosure requirements are pushing companies to hire specialists who can ensure compliance and manage sustainability strategies.

• Financial Services and Real Estate companies are expected to strengthen their technological infrastructure and expand their service offerings. Roles related to financial technology, cybersecurity, blockchain, sustainable finance and green bonds will be more sought after. The integration of AI and digital solutions in real estate is set to grow and the commercial real estate market recovery anticipates hiring increases in areas such as property management, development and investment.

• Healthcare and Life Sciences sector continues to expand, emphasizing the growing need for healthcare services and treatments advances. With many countries coping with an aging population, healthcare providers are likely to expand their workforce, with a particular demand for doctors, nurses and allied health professionals. Healthcare companies, particularly those in pharmaceuticals, medical devices and biotechnology, will continue investing in new business ventures, either through internal innovation or M&A, as they seek to expand portfolios, enter new therapeutic areas, and scale operations.

• Industrial Manufacturing sector is projected to experience increased digitization and technological advancements, driven by investments in robotics and automation equipment, aiming to streamline operations and improve efficiency and performance. Companies are building more resilient supply chains, which requires additional workforce to manage and optimize these processes. The growing focus on sustainable manufacturing practices leads to increased hiring in roles related to green technologies and environmental compliance.

• Information Technology companies are anticipated to significantly enhance artificial intelligence capabilities and accelerate digital transformation efforts as they strive to stay competitive in a fast-evolving landscape. Businesses will rely more and more on data-driven decision-making and the shift towards cloud computing will continue as will investments in predictive analytics and automation. There will be a particularly high demand for roles in AI, machine learning, cloud architecture, cybersecurity and data science.

• Private equity firms with substantial capital reserves are anticipated to drive M&A growth across various sectors, seeking strategic acquisitions to deploy their funds effectively and capitalize on undervalued assets or emerging opportunities. Consolidation is most likely to occur in healthcare, technology and energy sectors. Larger companies may continue to acquire smaller, innovative firms or competitors to gain market share, diversify offerings, or tap into new geographies. Startups in areas like fintech, AI, and healthcare could continue to attract investment, encouraging larger companies to acquire high-growth, high-potential firms.