The rise and fall of critical skills across 6 core functions

This week, we’re excited to share a compelling paper on the evolving landscape of workforce capabilities—specifically, the identification of sunrise and sunset skills. In this edition, we’ve focused on six core business functions, analyzing how these roles are being reshaped by digital transformation and emerging technologies across multiple industries.

Our research is rooted in real-world business model shifts and is designed to be broadly applicable across sectors. The framework and insights can serve as a strategic guide for workforce planners, talent leaders, and functional heads navigating change.

If you’d like us to tailor the analysis further for your specific industry, organization, or talent strategy, we’d be happy to offer a customized version. Just let us know your preferences.

Summary of findings:  

Six core business functions are undergoing significant transformation: Commercial, Digital, Engineering & Security, Finance, Procurement & Supply Chain, and Global Business Services (GBS). Each is moving away from traditional methods toward more tech-driven models, creating demand for new capabilities and phasing out old ones.

Highlights include:

• Commercial: Shifting from basic selling to value-based strategies. New skills include dynamic pricing, digital customer engagement, and strategic partnerships.
• Digital (IT/Data/AI): Becoming the engine of innovation. The needed skills include AI, cloud architecture, real-time data, and cybersecurity. Routine IT support is decreasing due to the increasing use of automation.
• Engineering & Security: Merging hardware, software, and cybersecurity. In-demand skills include system modeling, embedded AI, electric vehicles, and safety design.
• Finance: Evolving into a strategic role with a focus on forecasting, ESG, and analytics. Advanced modeling, real-time insights, and risk analysis are key. Manual bookkeeping and basic accounting tasks are being automated.
• Procurement & Supply Chain: Moving toward agile, digital, and sustainable operations. Key skills include supply chain analytics, blockchain, and circular economy strategies.
• Global Business Services (GBS): Transforming from clerical support to digital service delivery. Skills in automation, AI-enabled services, and customer experience are rising

We hope you find this short report helpful.

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