The AI-powered workforce: what skills will define the future of work?

AI is no longer a distant future—it’s here, reshaping how we work, hire, and learn. As automation picks up speed, professionals, businesses, and universities face a critical issue: what skills do people need to be able to stand out in an AI-driven world?  

At the 4YFN event during Mobile World Congress Barcelona, a panel of experts from Danone, Ultralytics, and Shiseido discussed this topic, sharing their views on how AI is redefining talent, the workplace, and the role of human expertise. The discussion was moderated by Marc Cortés, Director of the Executive Master Digital Business at Esade. 

AI is here—but it’s not replacing humans just yet

The discussion kicked off with a reality check: AI is changing how we work, but it’s not about to take over every single job. Javier Fernández Santín, Global Employer Branding Lead at Danone; Hans Van de Broek, Director of People at Ultralytics; and Amanda Ceballo, Digital Product Strategy at Shiseido, all agreed that while AI is making certain tasks more efficient, it’s also creating new roles. At the same time, it’s apparent which jobs humans can still do best. 

It will be a universal skill to have a basic knowledge of AI

Van de Broek made a valid comparison with the growth of the internet: "When I was a kid, the first time I accessed the internet, it was just a big box where you put in two euros, and all you could do was check the news, weather, or sports. It was basic. AI is at that stage now—it’s impressive, but we’ve barely scratched the surface regarding what it can do.” 

Winning skills in an AI world

So, if AI can take over so many tasks, what abilities will people need to compete in the job market? The panelists discussed three key skill areas that will define the future workforce. 

Human skills will matter more than ever. AI can process data and streamline workflows, but it can’t negotiate, inspire, or think creatively the way humans can. Leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence will be vital. Fernández emphasized that while AI can automate processes, it can’t replace the human factor. "Your job will have to focus on the things that the tool cannot do for you—leading, influencing, and resolving conflicts," he explained. 

It will be a universal skill to have a basic knowledge of AI. You don’t need to be an engineer, but you will be using AI tools. Ceballo explained: "It’s like e-commerce—15 years ago, many people didn’t understand it. Now, even if you’re not in tech, you have a basic grasp of how online businesses work. The same will happen with AI. You don’t need to code, but you do need to know how to use AI tools effectively." 

AI has to be part of the curriculum, not just in tech degrees but across all subjects

Understanding AI isn’t just about knowing how to use it—it’s also about recognizing its restrictions. From biases in hiring algorithms to concerns over fairness in decision-making, AI’s impact on employment is complex. As Esade experts have explored, ensuring AI-driven processes remain ethical and inclusive is just as important as learning how to use the technology itself. 

Lifelong learning is now essential. Gone are the days when a degree was enough to last a lifetime. Companies and workers alike need to embrace continuous learning. Fernández stressed that traditional education is no longer enough. "We are moving into a lifelong learning era. A four-year degree and a master’s won’t sustain a career anymore—learning has to be a continuous, day-to-day process." 

Rethinking education and work

Collaboration between universities and businesses will be paramount. Marc Cortés challenged the group to think about what universities and companies should be doing differently. 

For universities, the answer was clear: AI has to be part of the curriculum, not just in tech degrees but across all subjects. Business students, designers, and marketers all need to learn to work with AI. According to Van de Broek, the best learning happens when universities and businesses work together to teach students by providing real-world projects and internships. 

AI is also shifting the nature of work in ways we’re only just beginning to understand

Fernández shared his perspective from a corporate angle. At Danone, they are already testing AI-powered hiring tools. But rather than replacing HR professionals, AI is being used to automate routine tasks, allowing recruiters to focus on strategy and building relationships. 

"We’re not throwing AI at everything all at once," he explained. "We’re piloting it in select regions, seeing what works, and scaling gradually. That’s the smart way to do it.” 

AI as a talent magnet

Ceballo noted that AI is an attractive draw for young professionals. "Embracing AI isn’t just about efficiency—it makes employees feel like they are in the right place at the right time, working with cutting-edge technology and growing in their careers.” 

Fernández warned that AI is not a magic wand that will attract the best talent. "Companies need to think of themselves like a product and candidates as consumers. AI might make a workplace more appealing, but culture, career growth, and work-life balance are what truly matter." 

However, the use of AI in business can bring about new issues. How do businesses ensure that automation doesn’t threaten job security? And what are the long-term implications on employment? Research suggests that while AI is generating jobs, it is also shifting the nature of work in ways we’re only just beginning to understand. 

Keeping up with AI

AI may not take your job—but someone who knows how to use AI effectively just might. The workforce of the future will be made up of those who can combine technical understanding with problem-solving, adaptability, and human insight. 

The conversation ended on a thought-provoking note. In a world where so much can be automated by AI, what will really make people special? 

One thing is clear: AI will continue to shape the future of work—but how we implement it will determine whether it becomes a tool for progress or a disruptor of stability. There are hidden costs of AI that go beyond efficiency and automation, and raise questions about long-term economic impact and workforce resilience. 

Marc Cortés summed it up by emphasizing that AI isn’t just about technical skills—it’s about how workers can leverage AI to enhance their performance and expertise. "The real winners in the job market won’t just understand AI, but will know how to use it to augment their abilities, solve problems, and think strategically.” 

Success in the future of work will be about how well people learn to work alongside AI. Those who embrace AI as a tool—rather than fear it—will have the skills that make them stand out.