Future-Proof Your Career: Using Jobs Transformation Maps to Identify Career Risks and Opportunities
During the keynote session at the recent Seedly Personal Finance Festival, Dr Tan See Leng, Minister of Manpower shone a spotlight on Jobs Transformation Maps (JTMs) that provide detailed insights on the impact of technology and automation on the industry and workforce. It ignited my curiosity and concern about the future of work. JTMs were developed in collaboration with industry leaders, academics, and government bodies to serve as a compass guiding us through the evolving job landscape. They attempt to predict the impact of technology and automation on various industries, identifying which jobs will thrive and which might decline.
This information is crucial for professionals and companies alike, offering a chance to pivot, upskill, or even enter burgeoning fields before it’s too late. For individuals, JTMs can be a wake-up call to assess their career paths and invest in skills that align with future demands to stay employable. For businesses, these maps help in strategising workforce development and staying competitive in a rapidly changing market.
Understanding JTMs is the first step towards proactive career planning. They’re not just about predicting the future; they’re about creating a roadmap for individuals and organisations to navigate the uncertainties of technological advancement and economic shifts. In this article, I dive deeper into the implications of JTMs from the perspective of an individual. I believe that they are an essential tool in preparing for a future where adaptability and lifelong learning are key to career longevity and success.
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How do Job Transformation Maps work?
Identifying jobs at risk through JTMs involves recognising positions vulnerable to automation and technological advances. This awareness prompts individuals in affected sectors to reassess their career paths, emphasizing the need for adaptability and continuous skill development. By highlighting at-risk jobs, JTMs serve as a crucial tool for professionals to preemptively upskill or pivot to more resilient roles.
The transition for workers in these identified at-risk sectors is not without support. JTMs often accompany suggestions for related growth areas or emerging industries, providing a bridge for individuals to realign their career trajectories. This aspect underscores the importance of lifelong learning and the willingness to embrace new opportunities, ensuring that workers can remain relevant and competitive in the workforce.
Moreover, JTMs offer insights into the shifting dynamics of the job market, encouraging a proactive approach to career planning. They not only highlight the risks but also open doors to potential pathways for professional development. For workers in these sectors, it becomes imperative to leverage JTMs for strategic career decisions, focusing on resilience and the acquisition of future-proof skills.
What Are the Jobs at Risk?
The identification of jobs at risk through JTMs offers a preemptive insight for workers in sectors susceptible to automation and technological advances. This awareness is vital for initiating career reassessment and embracing the necessity for adaptability and continuous learning. I know that some of my readers do not like to dig through many pages so I did the hard work of going through all the JTMs to summarise all the job titles that are impacted in each sector.
What happens If your job is one of the high impacted jobs risks?
You have a high risk of being displaced by automation and technology advancements in the next 2-5 years. You need to start planning immediately, how you can make use of your experience and expertise to pivot to a different job that is future-proof, and makes use of your experience and expertises so that you do not start from zero again.
What happens if your job is one of the moderate impacted jobs?
You need to decide if you still like what you are doing today. If the answer is yes, look through the JTM to understand the skills you need to learn and improve yourself to stay relevant in your current job. If the answer is no, then it’s worth spending time to reevaluate your career path and identify jobs that you want to pivot and shift yourself into. Make a list of all the skills you need to acquire to make the shift.
| Sector | Job Titles |
|---|---|
| Accounting Practices | High Impact Audit Associate/Audit Assistant Associate Tax Associate/Tax Executive Accounts Executive/Accounts Assistant Risk Advisory Associate/Risk Advisory Executive Financial Forensics Associate/Financial Forensics Executive Corporate Secretarial Associate Senior Internal Auditor/Internal Auditor Moderate Impact Accountant/Senior Accounts Executive Audit Manager Audit Senior Business Valuation Associate/Business Valuation Executive Business Valuation Manager Business Valuation Senior/Business Valuation Senior Executive Corporate Secretarial Manager Corporate Secretarial Senior/Corporate Secretarial Senior Executive Financial Forensics Manager Financial Forensics Senior/Financial Forensics Senior Executive Internal Audit Assistant Manager Internal Audit Senior Manager/Internal Audit Manager Mergers & Acquisitions Associate/Mergers & Acquisitions Executive Mergers & Acquisitions Manager Mergers & Acquisitions Senior/Mergers & Acquisitions Senior Executive Restructuring & Insolvency Associate/Restructuring & Insolvency Executive Restructuring & Insolvency Manager Restructuring & Insolvency Senior/Restructuring & Insolvency Senior Executive Risk Advisory Manager Risk Advisory Senior/Risk Advisory Senior Executive Tax Senior/Tax Senior Executive |
| Built Environment | High Impact Assistant Quantity Surveyor/Assistant Cost Manager Moderate Impact Architect Architectural Assistant Architectural Associate Architectural Executive Assistant Civil and Structural Engineer/Technical Executive (Civil and Structural Engineering) Assistant Mechanical Engineer/Assistant Electrical Engineer/Technical Executive (Mechanical Engineering/Electrical Engineering) Assistant Project Manager (Construction)/Construction Manager Assistant Project Manager/Project Management Executive Assistant Specialist (Digital Delivery) Building Executive/Facilities Executive/Property Executive Building Officer/Facilities Officer/Property Officer Building Supervisor Civil and Structural Engineer Engineer/Assistant Engineer Facilities Manager/Facilities Engineer Facilities Technician Mechanical Engineer/Electrical Engineer Production Manager/Assistant Production Manager Production Supervisor Project Manager Quality Assurance Manager/Quality Control Manager/Quality Assurance Engineer/Quality Control Engineer/Planner Quality Assurance/Quality Control Supervisor Quantity Surveyor/Contracts Manager/Cost Manager Senior Architect Senior Architectural Executive Senior Facilities Manager Senior Production Manager Senior Project Manager Senior Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manager/Senior Planner Senior Quantity Surveyor/Senior Contracts Manager/Senior Cost Manager Site Supervisor/Trade Supervisor/Project Coordinator Specialist (Digital Delivery) Technical Executive Technical Officer |
| Environmental Services Industry – Cleaning | High Impact General Cleaner |
| Environmental Services Industry – Waste Management | Moderate Impact Waste Collection Crew Waste Recycling Sorter |
| Finance and Accounting Functions | High Impact Tax Associate/Tax Executive Senior Treasury Executive/Treasury Executive Accountant/Senior Accounts Executive Accounts Executive/Accounts Assistant Management Accountant/Financial Planning and Analysis Analyst/Business Analyst Accounting Executive Moderate Impact Financial Controller Finance Manager Business Controller/Finance Director Financial Planning and Analysis Manager Tax Senior/Tax Senior Executive Treasury Manager Internal Audit Assistant Manager Senior Internal Auditor/Internal Auditor |
| Financial Services | High Impact AML/CFT Transaction Surveillance Bancassurance Officer Branch Operations Branch Teller Business Assurance Claims Examiner (Retail) Client Service Office Compliance Monitoring and Testing Contact Centre Representative Credit and Loan Officer Credit Operations Customer Service/Call Centre Representative Fund Accountant Fund Administrator Investment Performance Analyst Mortgage Specialist New Business Operations Officer Policy Servicing Officer Portfolio Assistant/Front Office Support Post Trade Specialist Product Controller Product Manager Product Sales — SME Relationship Manager — SME Remisier Trade Support Specialist Trade Surveillance Trader Trader (Buy-Side) Trader (Liquid assets) Transaction Banking Operations Transaction Processing Officer Transfer Agent/Registrar Underwriter (Retail) Moderate Impact Agency Management Officer Assistant Relationship Manager/ Credit Analyst Broker Business Manager Claims Examiner (Non-Retail) Client Implementation Officer Client Service Officer Compliance Regulatory Reporting Officer Corporate Finance Banker Credit Risk Officer Data Analyst Credit Structuring Officer Data Scientist Debt Capital Markets (DCM) Banker Economist Equity Capital Markets (ECM) Banker Finance Operations and Tax Financial Consultant/Personal Banker Financial Crime Compliance Investigation and Intelligence Financial Crime Data Analytics Financial Planner/Insurance Agent Human Resource Operations Internal Audit Investment Management Officer IT Applications and Software IT Operations Management IT Project Delivery IT Security IT Service Support IT Strategy and Architecture IT Testing/Audit and Quality Assurance Loss Prevention Marketing and Communications Officer Operational Excellence Officer Paralegal Portfolio Manager/Portfolio Advisor Pricing Actuary Product Analyst Product Developer Product Development Product Management Product Sales — Commercial/ Corporate Quantitative Analyst Regulatory Change Management Officer Reinsurance Management Officer Relationship Manager — Commercial/Corporate Research Analyst Trader (ILL Liquid Assets) Treasury Operations Officer Valuation Actuary Wealth Planner/Advisor |
| Food Manufacturing | Moderate Impact Supervisor / Production Planner Process Technician / Maintenance Technician Section Head / Team Leader / Line Operator Production Operator QC Technician / QC Assistant / Laboratory Technician |
| Hotel Industry | High Impact Front Office Officer / Guest Services Officer / Guest Relations Officer / Front Office Agent / Guest Services Agent / Guest Relations Agent Housekeeping Coordinator Marketing Communications Executive / Public Relations Executive Marketing Communications Officer / Sales and Marketing Officer Reservations Officer/ Reservations Agent Revenue Specialist/Revenue Analyst Sales Coordinator/ Catering Sales Coordinator Moderate Impact Assistant Concierge Assistant Engineer/ Senior Technician Assistant Event Services Executive Assistant Front Office Manager / Assistant Operations Manager / Duty Manager / Guest Services Manager / Guest Relations Manager Assistant Housekeeper / Housekeeping Manager / Housekeeping Supervisor Assistant Venue Operations Executive Barista Barista Supervisor Business Development Manager Butler Supervisor / Club Floor Executive / Club Floor Supervisor Cleaning Operations Executive Cleaning Supervisor Concierge Director of Sales and Marketing Engineer/ Supervisor Event Services Manager/ Event Services Executive Executive / Service Supervisor Executive / Service Supervisor Front Office Executive / Guest Services Executive / Guest Relations Executive / Front Office Supervisor / Guest Services Supervisor / Guest Relations Supervisor Housekeeping Attendant / Assistant Executive Housekeeper Room Attendant / Public Area Attendant Linen Room Attendant / Laundry Valet Attendant Linen Room Supervisor Marketing Communications Manager / Public Relations Manager / Assistant Marketing Communications Manager / Assistant Public Relations Manager Multi-skilled Cleaner/ Team Leader Reservations Executive / Reservations Supervisor Sales Executive / Catering Sales Executive Sales Manager / Catering Sales Manager / Assistant Sales Manager / Assistant Catering Sales Manager Security Officer Security Supervisor Senior Engineer/ Assistant Manager Senior Security Officer Technician/ Coordinator |
| Human Resources | High Impact Associate, Employee Experience and Relations Associate, Learning and Organisation Development Associate, Performance and Rewards Associate, Talent Attraction Associate, Talent Management Executive / Associate, Operations and Technology Executive, Employee Experience and Relations Executive, Performance and Rewards Moderate Impact Chief Human Resources Officer Executive, Learning and Organisation Development Executive, Talent Attraction Executive, Talent Management Head, Employee Experience and Relations Head, Learning and Organisation Development Head, Operations and Technology Head, Performance and Rewards Head, Talent Attraction Manager, Employee Experience and Relations Manager, HR Business Partner Manager, Learning Manager, Operations and Technology Manager, Performance and Rewards Manager, Talent Attraction Manager, Talent Management |
| Information and Communications | High Impact Applications Support Engineer Associate Applications Support Engineer Associate Infrastructure Engineer Associate Infrastructure Support Engineer Associate Network Engineer Associate Operations Centre Support Engineer Associate Security Analyst Associate Systems Support Engineer Head of Quality Infrastructure Engineer Infrastructure Support Engineer Network Engineer Operations Centre Support Engineer Quality Assurance Engineer Quality Assurance Manager Quality Engineer Quality Manager Security Operations Analyst Systems Support Engineer Digital Asset Librarian Games QA Tester Linear Media Operator/Manager Programme Planning & Scheduling Executive/Manager Vision Mixer/Switcher Moderate Impact AI Applied Researcher AL/ML Engineer Associate Data Centre Operations Engineer Associate Database Support Engineer Associate Embedded Systems Engineer Associate Radio Frequency Manager Associate Software Engineer Associate UI Designer Associate UX Designer Business Intelligence Director Business Intelligence Manager Cyber Risk Analyst Cyber Risk Manager Data Analyst/Associate Data Engineer Data Architect Data Centre Operations Engineer Data Engineer Data Scientist/AI Scientist Database Support Engineer DevOps Engineer Embedded Systems Engineer Embedded Systems Engineering Manager Head of Data Science and AI Infrastructure Architect Lead UI Designer Lead UX Designer Programme Director Programme Manager Project Manager/Scrum Master Radio Frequency Engineer Security Operations Manager Senior AI/ML Engineer Senior Data Engineer Software Architect Software Engineer Software Engineering Manager UI Designer Analytics and Customer Insights Anchor/News Reporter Assistant Producer/Producer – Games Camera Operator Camerman Focus Puller Game Designer/Game Director Linear Media Infrastructure (Technician, Engineer, Manager) Loader News Producer/Current Affairs Producer On-demand Media Technology & Operations Post-production Assistant Post-Production Supervisor Product Manager Sound Editor Sound Engineer Standards & Practices Video Editor |
| Land Transport | High Impact Communication Controller Customer Service Officer/Rover Train Captain/Senior Train Captain Crew Manager Bus Captain/Senior Bus Captain/Chief Bus Captain/Master Bus Captain Taxi Driver/PHC Driver Moderate Impact Technician/ Senior Technician (Rolling Stock/ Engineering Train) Technician/ Senior Technician (Permanent Way and Civil Structure) Technician/ Senior Technician (Power) Technician/ Senior Technician (Mechanical and Electrical) Technician/ Senior Technician (Signal and Communications) Technician/ Senior Technician (Automatic Fare Collection) Engineer/ Engineering Manager Technician/ Senior Technician/ Section Supervisor/ Foreman/ Workshop Supervisor/ Senior Foreman/ Technical Specialist/ Senior Technical Specialist/ Master Technical Specialist/ Deputy Workshop Manager/ Workshop Manager [Motor Workshop] Technician/ Senior Technician/ Section Supervisor/ Foreman/ Workshop Supervisor/ Senior Foreman/ Technical Specialist/ Senior Technical Specialist/ Master Technical Specialist/ Deputy Workshop Manager/ Workshop Manager/ Head of Workshop Train Service Controller/ Depot Traffic Controller/ Depot Train Controller/ Chief Controller/ Controller/ Operations Control Centre Manager/ Head, Operations Control Centre Senior Assistant Station Manager/ Assistant Station Manager/ Senior Station Manager/ Station Manager/ Deputy Station Manager/ Rail Service Manager/ Service Operations Manager/ Duty Operations Manager/ Station Operations Manager/ Train Operations Manager/ Head, Train Operations/ Head, Station Operation/ Head, Passenger Services Senior Interchange Officer/ Senior Interchange Assistant/ Interchange Officer/ Interchange Assistant/ Senior Interchange Supervisor/ Interchange Supervisor/ Interchange Manager/ Senior Depot Officer/ Senior Depot Assistant/ Depot Officer/ Depot Assistant/ Senior Depot Supervisor/ Depot Supervisor/ Depot Operations Manager/ Depot Manager Chief Bus Controller/ Bus Operations Control Centre Controller/ Deputy Bus Operations Control Centre Manager/ Bus Operations Control Centre Manager Technician/ Senior Technician Technical Specialist/ Senior Technical Specialist |
| Logistics | High Impact Brokerage/Freight Supervisor Depot/Traffic/Supervisor/Hub Operations Supervisor Import Export Administrative/Shipping Assistant MHE/Forklift Operator / Warehouse/Inventory Assistant Order Fulfilment/Sales Operations/ Customer Service Assistant Order Fulfilment/Sales Operations/ Customer Service Coordinator Order Management/Quote Desk Executive / Order Fulfilment/Inside Sales Officer Permit/Shipping/Custom Clearance Coordinator Traffic/Dispatch Coordinator Warehouse Storekeeper / Inventory/Logistics Coordinator Warehouse/Inventory Control/Quality Control Supervisor Moderate Impact Business Process Excellence Engineer / Operations Specialist / Industrial Operations Engineer Customer Service Officer / Service Quality Analyst Dispatch/Transport Operator / Last Mile Delivery Driver / Container Driver Field Sales/Key Account Executive / Sales Operations Management Specialist Freight Officer Health, Safety and Environmental Coordinator Incoming Quality Coordinator / Tally Assistant Lifting Supervisor Logistics Contracts Analyst / Logistics Operations Analyst Logistics Contracts/Logistics Operations Executive/ Logistics Operations Specialist Logistics Data Management Coordinator / Logistics Data Entry Coordinator Logistics Data Specialist / Master Data Analyst / Master Data Executive Logistics Solutions Analyst Rigger / Signalman Senior Customer Service Officer / Customer Service Specialist Traffic Controller / Transport Officer / Line Haul Operations Officer Vertical Specialist Warehouse Officer / Inventory Controller / Quality/Facilities Management Officer Warehouse Operations/Inventory Management/Warehouse Assistant Manager |
| Retail | High Impact Merchandising Executive Merchandising Manager Sales Associate Sales Supervisor Moderate Impact Brand Manager E-commerce Executive E-commerce Manager Logistics Operations Analyst Marketing Executive Marketing Manager Retail Operations Director Store Manager Visual Merchandiser Warehouse Operations Manager |
| Supply Chain Management | Moderate Impact Customer Service Officer Demand Planner Freight Officer Materials Planner Merchandising Executive Order Management Executive Procurement Specialist Production Manager Project Executive (Transportation) Sourcing Manager Supply Planner Warehouse Operations Executive |
| Wholesale Trade | High Impact Business Analyst/ Market Research Analyst/Market Analyst Commodities Trader Derivatives Trader Marketing Assistant/ Marketing Coordinator Marketing Executive Operations Assistant/ Operations Coordinator Procurement Assistant/ Sourcing Assistant/Sourcing Coordinator Procurement Executive/ Sourcing Executive Sales Assistant/ Sales Coordinator Sales Associate/ Brand Associate Senior Analyst/ Analyst, Credit Management Senior Analyst/ Analyst, Risk Senior Business Analyst/ Senior Market Research Analyst/Senior Market Analyst Moderate Impact Business Development Manager Business Process Excellence Engineer/ Operations Specialist/ Industrial Operations Engineer Commodities Trading Manager/ Senior Commodities Trader Credit Manager Customer Service Officer/ Service Quality Analyst Derivatives Trading Manager/ Senior Derivatives Trader Head of Business Development Head of Commodities Trading Head of Credit Head of Derivatives Trading Head of Marketing Head of Operations Head of Procurement/ Head of Sourcing Head of Sales Head of Trade Finance Head of Treasury Logistics Data Management Coordinator/ Logistics Data Entry Coordinator Logistics Solutions Analyst Marketing Manager Operations Executive Operations Manager Procurement Manager/ Sourcing Manager Regulations and Trade Controls Manager Risk Manager Sales Executive Sales Manager Senior Analyst/ Analyst, Regulations And Trade Controls Senior Analyst/ Analyst, Trade Finance Senior Analyst/ Analyst, Treasury Trade Finance Manager Treasury Manager |
JTMs serve as an early warning system, prompting individuals to proactively seek skill enhancement or consider transitioning to more secure roles. The emphasis on at-risk jobs underlines the importance of being agile in a rapidly evolving job market, encouraging workers to remain competitive by aligning with future industry demands.
Identifying Emerging Job Opportunities
Emerging job opportunities identified by JTMs signal sectors ripe for growth, driven by technological innovation and evolving market demands. These maps spotlight areas such as renewable energy, digital marketing, and cybersecurity, where the advent of new technologies creates a demand for skilled professionals.
What I like about JTMs is that they are not telling us what jobs opportunities are available today. Instead, they are identifying emerging job opportunities that will be coming in 2-5 years. For individuals, this presents an invaluable chance to align their career paths with industries on the rise, ensuring long-term relevance in the job market.
In some of these opportunities, it is also interesting to see that as some of the more traditional sectors innovate, they create job opportunities for jobs that we may perceive as matured in other sectors. For example, the JTM for Wholesale Trade identifies Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) Specialist as an emerging job opportunity while this job already exists today in other sectors. This means that if I am a SEO Specialist today and I find myself placed out of the market by the competition, I could consider and explore switching to a different sector such as Wholesale Trade that is only starting to recognise the need for a SEO Specialist.
| Sector | Emerging Job Opportunities |
|---|---|
| Accounting Practices | IT Auditor (Assurance, Risk Advisory and Internal Audit) Emerging from the digital trends are evolving accounting roles, one of which is the IT Auditor role, which covers assurance, risk advisory, and internal audit. These experts scrutinise, evaluate and fortify an organisation’s IT systems, mitigating cyber security risks and maintaining IT controls. Ethical Hacker (Financial Forensics) The escalating threat of cyberattacks has fuelled a surge in demand for ethical hackers. As digital security vanguards, they uncover cyber vulnerabilities, prevent attacks and offer remediation advice, placing them at the forefront of safeguarding businesses’ financial stability and reputation. Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Specialist (Financial Accounting and Business Valuation) As non-financial reporting becomes a top priority for businesses, the demand for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Specialists grows. These experts assess social and environmental trends, develop ESG strategies, and ensure compliance with regulations, playing a vital role in aligning businesses with industry standards. |
| Built Environment | Architectural Technologist, Climate-change Response Engineer, Solar Engineer Facility Management Data Analyst Sustainability Facility Manager Robotic Engineer Digital Systems Engineer Computational Designer Metadata Project Manager Energy and Sustainability Solutions Architect Data Scientists/Engineer |
| Environmental Services Industry – Cleaning | Disinfection Specialist The rising demand for disinfection services, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, will make this role more prevalent in the next 2-5 years. Disinfection services are becoming a fundamental aspect of the cleaning sector. AI Hygiene Controller With increased usage of AI machines and robots, proficiency in operating these smart technologies becomes essential. This role increases productivity levels and allows operators to perform their duties without being exposed to unsanitary environments. Potentially, this can solve one of the challenges in the cleaning industry of attracting more locals to pursue jobs as cleaning professionals. RFID/Sensor Controller This role involves managing sensor-based technologies. For instance, sensor-based smart washroom systems can alert cleaners when toilet paper or hand wash liquid needs replenishing, freeing them up to focus on other cleaning tasks. This enhances productivity, facilitates effective deployment, and optimises resource utilisation. Quality Assurance Specialist As the sector transitions into outcome-based contracting, reinforcing the implementation of quality assurance guidelines becomes crucial. These specialists will assist in developing and implementing quality assurance frameworks for stakeholders within the cleaning sector, ensuring compliance with hygiene, waste management, and other green or sustainability components. Long-term roles such as Data Analyst, Process Improvement Specialist, and Integrated Environmental Services Facilities Manager While these roles may not be immediately required, once the transformation efforts have stabilised, they will be in demand. For example, the Integrated Environmental Services Facilities Manager will need comprehensive knowledge not only in cleaning services but also in Waste Management and Pest Management, enabling them to strategise and plan for the entire location while ensuring compliance with specific environmental regulations. |
| Environmental Services Industry – Waste Management | Sustainability Specialist A Sustainability Specialist in the waste management sector is responsible for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of sustainability programmes, recommending changes to close strategic gaps, and assisting with the creation and development of an organisation’s short-term and long-term sustainability strategies. This role is becoming increasingly important due to regulations and growing focus on circular economy. The Sustainability Specialist should have a strong understanding of sustainability principles and practices, as well as knowledge of waste management and circular economy concepts. They should be able to analyse data and identify trends and have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with stakeholders at all levels of the organisation. Data Analyst The role of a Data Analyst in the waste management sector is to collect and analyse data on waste generation, collection, and disposal, and identify patterns and trends that can help waste management companies optimise their operations. By using statistical analysis and data visualisation, data analysts can help waste management companies reduce waste generation, optimise waste collection routes, and improve recycling rates, translating data into actionable insights for stakeholders. Technology Controller The role of a Technology Controller in the waste management sector is to handle routine tasks through the use of technology, such as operating and maintaining waste collection vehicles, sorting equipment, and recycling machinery. They are also responsible for performing basic troubleshooting of the equipment and working closely with other members of the waste management team to ensure that operations are running smoothly. |
| Finance and Accounting Functions | Experts dealing with data management and analysis: Finance Data Steward Citizen Data Scientist Specialisation in policies, controls and governance procedures: Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Lead Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) Lead Regional Controller Transformation roles who require project management and collaboration skills: Finance Transformation Lead Finance Automation Lead Vendor Relationship Manager |
| Financial Services | Agile IT Programme Manager Agile IT Programme Managers are on the rise as financial institutions seek to leverage technology to create more agile and responsive systems. Cloud and Embedded Security Specialist Cloud and Embedded Security Specialists are also in demand as institutions seek to ensure the security of their data and systems in an increasingly digital landscape. Robotics Process Designer Robotics Process Designers are becoming increasingly important, with many financial institutions in Singapore and worldwide seeking to automate their operations and improve efficiency. |
| Food Manufacturing | Head of Regulatory Affairs Process Engineer Food Biotechnologist Data Analyst Novel Foods Technical Services Manager Sustainability Manager Bioprocess Engineer Automation Engineer |
| Hotel Industry | Business Intelligence Analyst This role focuses on managing and analysing data using business intelligence tools to derive performance insights on various hotel metrics, such as market share, pricing effectiveness, credit control, and market trends. Being data-driven and possessing a comprehensive understanding of business intelligence functions are key to this role, as they will support analysis to identify factors impacting hotel performance and collaborate with management teams to devise solutions. Community Partnerships Manager This role leads in building strategic relationships with ecosystem players within and beyond the hospitality sector. This includes engaging with local enterprises, communities, and creatives and finding new avenues for value and revenue creation that align with the hotel’s growth ambitions. Knowledge of the local heritage, culture, and arts scene is essential, and strong communication skills will prove pivotal in fostering deep partnerships. Sustainability Specialist As sustainability becomes a key pillar in the hotel industry, this role focuses on evaluating sustainability standards and charting a sustainability roadmap for the hotel. The specialist will drive long-term sustainability goals and improve ESG performance. Familiarity with market trends, sustainable practices, sustainability indicators, and carbon reporting protocol is crucial, and the ability to translate sustainability efforts into increased business value and guest satisfaction will be paramount. Place Maker The Place Maker curates unique destination-inspired journeys that bridge connections between the hotel and its surrounding communities. By utilising storytelling techniques centred around local history, culture, and heritage, they deepen the guests’ immersion into the locale. Critical skills required include cultural sensitivity for design, consumer intelligence analysis, and empathetic design, paired with core competencies like customer orientation and building inclusivity. Wellness Concierge The Wellness Concierge champions sustainable tourism by crafting wellness and wellbeing activities tailored to guests’ dietary preferences, fitness aspirations, and interests. Keeping in step with the latest wellness trends, they integrate novel ideas into the hotel’s service offerings, ensuring the physical and mental wellbeing of guests from pre-trip consultations to their stay’s culmination. Essential to this role is a blend of technical skills such as customer behaviour analysis, service innovation, adaptability, communication, and a global perspective. Technology and Innovation Strategist This strategist pioneers technology initiatives, collaborating with functional heads and vendors to ideate, co-develop, and scale novel technological solutions. Making compelling business cases for the assimilation of new technologies, they engage key stakeholders, ensuring alignment with the hotel’s long-term vision. This role requires competencies such as an understanding of emerging technology, technology road mapping, and technology strategy formulation, adaptability, creative thinking, and sense-making. |
| Human Resources | HR Data Analyst These professionals are responsible for collecting, analysing, and interpreting data related to employees. They use data to inform HR strategy and decision-making. Learning Designer Learning designers are responsible for designing and developing training programmes for employees and need to understand adult learning theory and have experience in creating e-learning content. Employee Onboarding Specialist These individuals will be responsible for designing learning journeys and enhancing the overall employee experience, creating personalised employee experiences and promoting continuous upskilling. People Strategist As cross-functional roles emerge within the HR function to enhance employee experience and deliver integrated and holistic solutions, the People Strategist becomes crucial. They will partner with people managers to ensure that all processes across the talent lifecycle are in alignment with the organisation culture. Furthermore, by leveraging talent metrics, the People Strategist will address and solve talent issues, thereby driving effective business outcomes. |
| Information and Communications | Business Analysts Business Analysts are professionals who help organisations to identify business needs and find solutions to problems. With the increasing adoption of new technologies in the I&C sector, there is a growing demand for Business Analysts who can help businesses to leverage emerging technologies to improve their operations. Automation and Orchestration Engineers Automation and Orchestration Engineers are professionals who help organisations to automate and streamline their business processes. With the growing adoption of RPA tools and other automation technologies, there is a need for professionals who can design and implement automation solutions. Incident Investigators Incident Investigators are professionals who help establishments to investigate and respond to security incidents. With the growing threat of cyber attacks, there is an increasing demand for Incident Investigators who can help businesses to detect and respond to security breaches. |
| Land Transport | Data analysts who can effectively utilise data-driven systems and sensor technology. EV technicians and AV onboard safety operators. |
| Logistics | Data Scientist Data scientists are responsible for analysing and interpreting data related to logistics processes. They use data to identify trends and patterns and make data-driven decisions to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Machine Learning Engineer Machine learning engineers are responsible for developing and implementing machine learning algorithms and models to optimise supply chain operations. They need to have knowledge of machine learning techniques and tools, as well as programming skills. Solution/Application Architect Solution/application architects are responsible for designing and developing software applications to support logistics operations. They need to have knowledge of software development methodologies and technologies, as well as business requirements and constraints. |
| Retail | Sustainability Specialists Product Innovators Customer Experience Managers Omni-channel Managers Digital Marketers Digital Transformation Managers UI/UX Designers Customer Intelligence Analysts Full Stack Developers |
| Supply Chain Management | Customer Insight Analyst A Customer Insight Analyst (CIA) in the supply chain management is a critical role that blends business acumen with robust analytical skills to deliver creative, value-based solutions. They are responsible for understanding customer feedback, developing strategic proposals, driving programmes, and conducting deep-dives into data for impactful insights. A CIA must be adept at data analytics, visualisation, programming and data mining. Transformation Lead (TL) A Transformation Lead (TL) in the supply chain management spearheads and ensures seamless execution of transformation initiatives. Responsibilities include developing an integrated stakeholder transformation plan, aligning expectations, managing resources, and identifying and managing risks for seamless programme delivery. They should have a firm understanding of Lean principles, Industry 4.0 technologies and design thinking. Integrated Business Planner The Integrated Business Planning Planner is responsible for orchestrating plan alignment across various functions to meet organisational commitments. Key tasks involve developing comprehensive plans to optimise production and minimise cost, aligning operating plans, mentoring stakeholders towards a unified direction, and planning for risks and opportunities. The role demands data analytics skills, familiarity with planning software, and a broad understanding of operational, supply-chain, financial, and marketplace concepts. |
| Wholesale Trade | Sustainability Manager Supply Chain Performance Manager Inventory & Capacity Specialist Marketing Analytics Manager Supply Chain Performance Manager Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) Specialists |
JTMs also provide a Skills Framework (SFw) for acquiring the skills and qualifications necessary to thrive in these growing fields. They highlight the importance of digital literacy, analytical skills, and adaptability, urging professionals to embrace continuous learning. Educational institutions and training programs often tailor their curriculum based on JTMs, offering targeted courses to meet the future needs of the workforce. This alignment between skill development and market demand is crucial for professionals looking to transition into high-growth areas.
Pro Tip #1: Stack the Skills Framework with your SkillsFuture Credit to identify skills and courses that you could learn at a fraction of the cost to stay relevant in the job market.
Moreover, the emphasis on emerging job opportunities encourages a forward-looking approach to career planning. Professionals are motivated to stay abreast of industry trends and invest in upskilling or reskilling initiatives. By leveraging JTMs, individuals can make informed decisions about their career trajectories, focusing on sectors that promise growth, innovation, and stability. This proactive stance not only enhances employability but also contributes to a more dynamic and resilient economy.
Leveraging JTMs for Career Planning
Leveraging JTMs for career planning empowers individuals to navigate their career paths strategically. By analyzing the future landscape of work, professionals can identify opportunities for growth and areas requiring upskilling. JTMs act as a guide, enabling individuals to tailor their learning and development efforts towards in-demand skills and sectors, ensuring their future employability. This proactive approach not only enhances personal career prospects but also contributes to the overall resilience of the workforce in facing technological and economic shifts.
After understanding how JTMs allows us to learn what jobs are needed in each sector, the next step is to understand the sectoral trends that the sectors that we are interested in will be undergoing in the near future. A great resource that we can leverage on is the Industry Transformation Map (ITMs) from the Ministry of Trade and Industry. ITMs are frameworks designed by the Future Economy Council (FEC) to encourage collaboration among stakeholders from different industries and to enable companies to understand the developing business environment. The FEC takes overall responsibility for the implementation of the ITMs.
Pro Tip #2: Combine what you have learnt from JTMs with ITMs to identify the challenges that the sector is facing and align them with the skills you need to learn to prioritise and strategies your career development plan for the next 2 years.
Conclusion
As employees, our biggest risk is the fact that we are never truly in control of our employment. We could be told that our services are no longer needed and be kicked out of our jobs at a minute’s notice. The only thing we can do, is to ensure that we have the skills and knowledge to stay relevant in the job market, at least for the next 5 years.
The implications and insights provided by Jobs Transformation Maps (JTMs) clearly demonstrates that adaptability and lifelong learning are not just advantageous but essential for navigating the future job market. JTMs offer a roadmap, a direction of sorts that we can take into consideration when navigating both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the job market. Embracing this tool for career planning empowers individuals to align their skillsets with the evolving demands of the workforce, ensuring they remain relevant and competitive.
