Balancing accountability as roles evolve in Ireland’s fast-changing workforce

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the world of work — not in the distant future, but right now. From automating administrative tasks to driving data-led decisions and revolutionising customer experiences, AI is reshaping how we work, the skills we need, and how companies stay competitive.

In this new reality, one question keeps surfacing: Who’s responsible for making sure we’re ready — the employer or the employee?

The Urgency: AI Adoption Is Accelerating

A 2024 report by PwC Ireland found that 44% of Irish businesses have already integrated AI into at least one function, with more planning to expand their use of automation and machine learning in the next 12–18 months.

Globally, LinkedIn’s Future of Work Report notes that AI-related skills are among the fastest-growing in demand, with job descriptions increasingly listing “AI literacy,” “data fluency,” and “prompt engineering” as desirable or required — even in non-tech roles.

And yet, a McKinsey study revealed that only 15% of companies feel “very prepared” to address the skill gaps AI is creating.

So who’s job is it to close that gap?

Employers: The Case for Taking the Lead

In a tight labour market — especially across sectors such as Technology, Life Sciences, Legal, and Financial Services — hiring fully AI-ready talent is increasingly unrealistic. Instead, progressive companies are focusing on upskilling from within.

Here’s why it matters:

✅ 1. Retaining Top Talent

When employees see investment in their future, they’re more likely to stay. According to LinkedIn Learning’s 2024 Workplace Report, 93% of employees would stay longer at a company that invests in their development.

✅ 2. Building a Future-Proof Workforce

Rather than chasing external hires with ever-rising salary demands, internal upskilling creates agility. Especially in regulated industries (like pharma or finance), internal knowledge is hard to replace.

✅ 3. Strengthening Employer Brand

In the age of AI, employees want to work for companies that won’t leave them behind. Organisations that support career development through reskilling are more attractive to purpose-driven professionals — especially Gen Z and millennial candidates.

Employees: Taking Ownership of Your Career

That said, professionals can’t afford to wait for training budgets or HR to map out a development plan. In a world where 70% of jobs will be affected by AI to some degree by 2030 (World Economic Forum), ownership is everything.

Here’s what job seekers and professionals should be doing now:

🎯 1. Identify Future-Relevant Skills

Even outside of technology, the most resilient careers will require a blend of human and digital capabilities — like critical thinking, collaboration, prompt engineering, data literacy, and ethical decision-making.

🎯 2. Leverage Free and Paid Learning

Platforms like Coursera, edX, Google’s AI courses, and LinkedIn Learning offer a wide range of micro-credentials. Certifications in AI literacy or tools like ChatGPT, Tableau, or Python can boost both confidence and CVs.

🎯 3. Stay Curious and Adaptable

Perhaps the most valuable trait in the AI era? Learning agility. The ability to stay open to change, learn continuously, and apply knowledge across contexts will define long-term career success.

What Success Looks Like: Shared Responsibility

In reality, the best outcomes come when both employers and employees share responsibility — with each side taking initiative and supporting the other.

For Employers:

• Create learning pathways tailored to AI-adjacent roles
• Offer incentives and recognition for upskilling
• Encourage cross-functional learning, not just technical

For Employees:

• Be proactive in requesting upskilling opportunities
• Show initiative in applying new skills to your role
• Align your learning with business needs and future trends

Final Thoughts

As AI continues to reshape roles across industries, upskilling is no longer optional — it’s strategic. But it’s not a one-sided obligation.

Employers who invest in their people will retain stronger, more adaptable teams. Professionals who take ownership of their learning will unlock better, more future-fit careers.

In Ireland’s rapidly evolving job market, the winning formula isn’t employer or employee — it’s employer and employee.

Need Help Future-Proofing Your Team — or Your Career?

At Mason Alexander, we work with forward-thinking companies and ambitious professionals to navigate the changing world of work. From hiring AI-ready talent to advising on upskilling strategy, we’re here to support your next step.

Get in touch to learn how we can help you grow in the age of AI.