Randstad's 2025 outlook sees the HR function shift from 'administrators to advisors'
The demand and expectations for HR professionals in Hong Kong are changing in 2025 as their functions in the workplace continue to evolve, according to Randstad's 2025 job market outlook.
Fion Yeung, head of operational talent solutions, technology, HR, and business support, said the role of HR professionals in Hong Kong is evolving from "administrators to advisors."
In particular, there is a demand for HR professionals who can act as strategic business partners who can offer critical insights on workforce planning, employee engagement, and organisational culture.
There is also a growing demand for talent acquisition employees who can support succession planning as companies are finding more opportunities for employee growth in order to ensure business continuity, according to Yeung.
"While the overall demand for learning and development talent has decreased, there is a heightened expectation for them to develop and implement robust skills development programmes to build a good leadership pipeline," she said in the report.
There is also a growing expectation for HR leaders to develop initiatives on wellness amid rising requests for mental health support, as well as have strong soft skills who can handle "difficult conversations."
"The ability to navigate difficult conversations, such as those about poor performance, job changes, and layoffs, is highly valued," Yeung said. "Professionals with these skills can make a significant contribution to employee morale and productivity levels."
Yeung's remarks came as four per cent of Randstad's respondents said the human resources department will see major hiring activity in 2025.
Overall, 54% of employers are planning to increase headcount next year, with only 12% of employers planning to trim their headcount and 34% having no plans to change them.
Sales and business development departments will likely see the most hiring activity in 2025, with 34%, followed by tech functions or departments with 22%.
Source: Randstad's Hong Kong SAR 2025 job market outlook and salary guide
Despite the strong hiring sentiment recorded, the report still found that 52% [of employers] are planning to reduce non-essential recruitment as part of their hiring strategy for 2025.
Another 30% said they plan to build talent acquisition capabilities and increase the budget for technical skills and roles.
Source: Randstad's Hong Kong SAR 2025 job market outlook and salary guide
