HIRING NEWS AND TRENDS

Tech job market in 2025: what to expect

Innovation is driving demand

Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and quantum computing aren’t just science fiction anymore—they’re changing how businesses operate in real time. Smart devices allow us to interact with almost everything around us, and blockchain is making transactions more secure across industries like finance and healthcare. As these technologies become more common, companies are scrambling to find people with the right skills to support them, ultimately driving up demand—and salaries—for specialized roles.

The talent shortage isn’t going away

Innovation is moving fast, but there aren’t enough skilled professionals to keep up. Canada is currently facing a massive cybersecurity gap, with over 25,000 positions unfilled. Similarly, 41% of businesses report they are having difficulty hiring cloud computing professionals. Globally, demand for AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity expertise is outpacing the supply, making upskilling a significant area of focus for companies looking to address these skill gaps.

Cybersecurity is a top priority

Cyberthreats are evolving just as quickly as technology. Ransomware attacks, more sophisticated hacking techniques, and data breaches have made cybersecurity a boardroom concern. Cybersecurity is no longer viewed as a backend function—it’s now a core business priority. This has led companies to invest in roles like ethical hackers, cyber resilience specialists, and zero-trust architects to protect them.

Remote and hybrid work requires new skills

Companies aren’t just looking for local talent anymore. They’re hiring across the country and even internationally. Working remotely isn’t just about getting the job done from home. It requires the skills to communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, and adapt quickly. Employers are prioritizing skills including navigating virtual meetings, building relationships online, and working well without constant supervision.

Increased demand for specialized skills

There’s a huge demand for specialized skills right now. By the end of 2025, around 11% of all jobs in Canada will be part of the digital economy. That’s a lot of growth, and it’s all because companies are using technologies like AI, machine learning, cloud systems, and cybersecurity to stay competitive. Roles like AI specialists, data scientists, and data engineers are some of the most sought-after positions, particularly as businesses increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making and predictive analytics to identify market trends.

Green tech and sustainability

Green tech is on the rise, and it’s getting a big boost from Canada’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. With companies focused on sustainability, roles like data analysts, smart grid engineers, and web developers play a key part in advancing sustainability initiatives. Data analysts help track the success of renewable energy projects and make sure resources are used wisely, while web developers build platforms that support initiatives like smart grids and other green tech solutions. It’s all about finding smarter, more sustainable ways to do business—and these jobs are leading the charge.

Source: Lighthouse Labs

Sebastien Lamarche

Managaing Partner

“The tech job market in 2025 is being driven by the rapid pace of digital transformation across industries. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and automation are no longer emerging technologies—they are at the core of how businesses are reshaping their operations. As companies integrate these advancements to streamline processes and enhance customer experiences, the demand for specialized expertise in AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics continues to grow.

With the talent shortage intensifying, organizations are seeking expert guidance to navigate this transformation and implement effective, innovative solutions. Leveraging external expertise to address skill gaps, ensure security, and improve efficiency will be key to staying competitive in an increasingly digital world.”

HIRING NEWS AND TRENDS

Top 5 Canadian HR trends to watch for in 2025

1

AI and automation

AI isn’t the future—it’s already here. After years of creeping into human resources (HR), automation will be fully embedded into everything from recruitment to payroll by the end of 2025. The upside? AI can handle repetitive tasks—like screening resumes and scheduling interviews—allowing HR professionals to focus on strategy and relationship building. Transparency is key, though. It’s important that HR leaders clearly communicate with the workforce how AI is being used and how it will benefit their experience. They should also make sure to balance technology with a human touch. HR will always need humans to take the lead in creating meaningful change.

2

Prioritize employee wellness

Burnout is real, and employees expect their workplaces to take their well-being seriously. Supporting mental health isn’t just good ethics—it’s good business. Happier, healthier employees are more productive and less likely to leave. Take steps to offer real support, like mental health resources, flexible work options, and regular check-ins. Remember, if you take care of your people, they’ll take good care of the business.

3

Upskilling and training for the future

Industries are changing fast, and workers know they need to keep learning to stay competitive. Companies that invest in upskilling—or helping workers build new skills—aren’t just keeping up with industry changes, they’re building loyalty. Start by identifying skill gaps, then offer flexible learning opportunities and make growth a part of your organizational culture. Even if a skill isn’t urgent now, getting ahead of it will save you a headache later.

4

Smarter performance management

Gut instincts are out, and data is in. Performance management tools can help HR teams predict trends, spot problem areas, and improve the employee experience—but only if you know how to use them effectively. Investing in HR software is a great start, but training teams on how to interpret and act on the data is just as important. For example, if turnover is high, dig into why. Data tells a story—make sure you’re using it to make real improvements.

5

Workplace culture

Keeping employees engaged makes them feel valued and included. Companies that prioritize their culture reap the benefits of higher morale, lower turnover, and increased innovation. Looking for a place to start? Ask your team what’s working and what’s not and create a space for them to share honest feedback. It’s important to recognize that building an inclusive culture is a continuous process—not a one-and-done effort.

Source: Citation Canada

Scott Asselstine

Senior Director or Operations

“In 2025, employers will need to lean into and prioritize upskilling and development initiatives to make sure employees adapt to evolving technological changes like AI. Offering self-learning tools and flexible ways to acquire new skills will build a more functional and successful workforce and culture. Older workers may struggle with the initial adoption of such technologies. So the more resources employers are able to provide, the more organizations will be able to help them and stay competitive as various AI and automation technologies progress.”

HIRING NEWS AND TRENDS

Accounting and finance: 5 trends that will redefine finance and accounting in 2025

1

Accounting and finance leaders must do more with less. With increased demand for client accounting services, chief financial officers (CFOs) are turning to AI-driven analytics and hyperautomation strategies. This helps streamline operations, improve cash flow, reduce costs, and improve risk management while providing better experiences for stakeholders.

2

Hybrid global business services models are key to staying agile. Standardization, automation, and centralization remain priorities, but hybrid global business services models—or the blending of company-owned facilities with outsourced providers—help CFOs access specialized talent, scalable tech solutions, and cost-saving innovations for better risk management and value creation opportunities.

3

Service provider distinctions are fading. As consulting firms expand into managed services, companies need to focus on their expertise that delivers real value. A process-first, tech-driven approach will also be crucial for successful transformations.

4

Complex decision-making tasks are next in line for automation. Though automation has traditionally focused on transactional tasks, companies are now investing in AI for planning, forecasting, and risk management—areas that drive strategic decision-making and shareholder value.

5

Generative AI is reshaping the CFO role. AI-powered financial planning, budgeting, and risk management are helping CFOs scale businesses, adapt to changing customer needs, and drive both immediate profitability and long-term growth in an unpredictable economic landscape.

Source: Accounting Today

Dela Akbar

Managing Partner

"Canadian CFOs are facing mounting pressures from economic uncertainty, inflation, talent shortages, evolving regulations, and digital transformation demands. Balancing costs with growth investments remains an ongoing challenge.

One solution finance leaders are turning to is a hybrid global business services model that combines in-house expertise with outsourced providers. These providers bring AI-driven automation, 24/7 operational support, and compliance expertise to help CFOs focus on key strategic initiatives, manage financial risks, and enhance decision-making. By adopting a hybrid strategy, organizations can reallocate internal resources to high-value initiatives, future-proofing their finance functions and positioning themselves for sustained growth in an evolving market.”