The rapid digitization of the financial industry has not only propelled Bitcoin to new heights this year but has also significantly transformed the working environment. These changes have placed greater demands on human resources departments. Here are five key trends that HR teams in the banking sector should focus on in 2025.
1. Establishing Guardrails for Artificial Intelligence
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Few topics have shaped the financial industry more this year than the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Leading banks like Morgan Stanley, the Bank of Montreal (BMO), and Lloyds Banking Group have responded by introducing the role of «Group Head of AI.»
This trend is set to grow and evolve further in 2025, according to Chris Rowe, co-founder of the executive search firm Pltfrm.
Rowe anticipates a rising demand for AI specialists, particularly in risk, legal, and compliance functions. «Much like the role of the Chief Data Officer (CDO), AI leadership will largely focus on governance – ensuring AI is used ethically and in compliance with regulations, rather than becoming a runaway train,» Rowe explains.
- Key Takeaway: AI will demand advanced governance
With companies striving for a «Single Source of Truth» in customer data, AI leaders will face growing expectations to implement more sophisticated and ethical data usage frameworks.
2. The Private Credit Boom
Canary Wharf, London (Image: Shutterstock)
Private credit has eclipsed even private equity in popularity, with market volumes increasing tenfold since 2007. A relatively light regulatory environment has fueled the rise of alternative investment managers like Apollo (now in the S&P 500) and HPS (acquired by Blackrock).
Demand for skilled professionals who can structure, monitor, and manage risks associated with these deals will soar in 2025 as more wealth managers enter the space to offset shrinking margins in traditional business lines.
- Key Takeaway: Act now or risk missing out
Despite its growth, concerns are rising about a potential market correction. Experts who join too late may find themselves exiting just as the music stops.
3. The Return to the Office
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Amazon became a high-profile example in 2024 by mandating employees return to the office en masse. Many major corporations are following suit, gradually replacing hybrid models with stricter in-office requirements. By 2025, the norm may shift from «3 days in-office, 2 days remote» to «4 days in-office, 1 day remote.»
Rowe notes that remote work has fueled mutual distrust between employees and employers. However, hybrid models will remain particularly appealing to mid-level managers, creating a new balance in workplace dynamics.
- Key Takeaway: Hybrid work appeals to mid-career employees
Younger and older staff are expected to be the most visible in offices, while mid-level employees increasingly seek flexible options.
4. Security Regains Priority
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The hiring boom for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) has slowed in recent years but may see a resurgence in 2025, alongside the emergence of Chief Security Officers (CSOs). While traditionally focused on physical security, CSOs are now tackling digital security as well, reflecting the complexity of modern workplaces.
«Even something as basic as adjusting the temperature in a smart building now feels like a mission-control operation,» Rowe observes. Recent high-profile security incidents underscore the growing importance of this role.
- Key Takeaway: The CSO’s profile is rising
Boards and CEOs are likely to elevate the CSO role in response to increasing security challenges.
5. The Rise of «Productization»
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The influence of Silicon Valley continues to reshape corporate practices. «Productization» is the latest buzzword – referring to defining internal services as «products» that can be packaged, priced, and managed much like external offerings. For instance, HR’s «product» is employment, while Finance’s «product» is financial reporting.
This trend aims to streamline internal operations, borrowing concepts from Lean, Agile, and Design Thinking methodologies.
- Key Takeaway: A return to «Fordism»?
Elements of industrial production methods from the early 20th century may resurface, adapted to today’s service-based economy.
Looking Ahead
These five trends reflect the evolving priorities of banking HR departments. By embracing these changes, HR teams can better position their organizations for success in an increasingly complex and competitive landscape.
Based in Zurich and London, Pltfrm is a technology-focused recruitment consultancy founded in 2023 by Chris Rowe (left) together with the former Global Head of Recruiting at UBS, Will Lahaise (right). It specializes in filling C-level management positions for clients in the financial services and technology sectors. Rowe is based in Zurich and has more than 20 years of experience in executive search.
