Bridging the Skills Gap

HR's Role in the Future of Tax and Business Transformation

According to PwC’s 2025 Global Reframing Tax Survey, 95% of tax leaders report a skills gap in their function. The survey shows a growing need for expertise in many areas, the top three being:

• AI knowledge
• Specialised tax expertise
• and data analysis.

This shift draws attention to the critical role HR must play in equipping tax professionals with the right skills to effectively handle this era of digital transformation.

Why Does HR Needs to Take Action?

1. The Rise of AI and Automation is a wake up call for HR and business leaders: According to the survey, more than 80% of respondents expect GenAI to transform tax planning and strategy in the next three years. AI and automation are reshaping the workplace at an unprecedented pace. The question is no longer if but how your organization will adapt. HR must take the lead through upskilling talent, redefining roles, and ensuring a human-centric approach in an AI-driven world. The future of work isn’t coming; it’s already here.
2. Upskilling for the Future: According to PwC’s Global Reframing Tax Survey 2025, which gathered insights from 1,205 respondents across 47 countries, over 40% of CEOs believe their companies won’t be viable in the next decade if they remain on their current path. The message is clear: inaction is not an option. HR and business leaders must take bold steps to equip employees with the skills of tomorrow. Investing in upskilling is a necessity for retaining top talent and driving sustainable growth. The future belongs to those who prepare today.
3. Strategic Workforce Planning: All leaders and HR professionals know that the workforce is the greatest asset, but without a strategy, it can become the greatest liability. Aligning talent with business goals is a necessity in bridging the skills gap. The right people, in the right roles, at the right time.

Four Actions HR Leaders Can Take

1. Conduct a Skills Audit – Identify existing gaps in tax teams and develop training programs focused on AI, data analytics, and compliance knowledge.

2. Align Talent Acquisition with Business Needs – Recruit professionals who blend tax expertise with technological proficiency.

3. Leverage AI for Learning & Development – AI-driven learning platforms can personalize training experiences for tax professionals. It can accelerate their adaptation to new tools as well as new regulations.

4. Promote a Culture of Continuous Learning – Encouraging tax teams to adopt digital fluency will future-proof the workforce and drive business success.

In Conclusion

Aside being a compliance function, tax is now also a strategic driver of business transformation. HR leaders who proactively address skills gaps and integrate AI-driven upskilling strategies will future-proof tax teams and also strengthen their organization’s overall competitiveness.

Is your HR strategy evolving fast enough to meet these demands?