HR Faces Skills Gaps Amid Rising Strategic Role in AI Era

As AI reshapes global industries, a new report from Harvard Business Review Analytic Services, sponsored by Eightfold AI, highlights both the challenges and strategic opportunities HR professionals face in the wake of this technology. Drawing from a survey of 371 global HR leaders and business executives, the report emphasizes the growing need for HR to move from a supportive to a central role in driving AI strategy.

According to the report, 91% of respondents believe that having the right talent is critical to successful AI adoption. However, only 21% report that HR leadership is actively involved in shaping their organization's AI agenda. 

The research also reveals that AI is intensifying existing skills gaps. A majority of those surveyed say that AI adoption has exposed technical skill deficiencies within their workforce. Despite this, just over half of HR leaders (54%) are prioritizing training in AI-related skills, and only 35% rate their teams as effective at reskilling or upskilling employees to meet emerging needs.

One of the most significant barriers, cited by 52% of respondents, is the lack of internal AI expertise within HR departments. The report identifies key areas where HR must improve capabilities, including data literacy, change management, and adaptability, skills considered foundational for future-ready HR professionals.

While technical proficiency remains important, the study notes that business leaders are increasingly valuing creative problem-solving and other soft skills alongside AI-specific competencies. This shift presents HR with an opportunity to redesign talent strategies that go beyond traditional hiring models. Rather than focusing solely on roles, the report recommends organizations adopt a skills-based approach that enables talent mobility and aligns with the evolving demands of AI-driven work.

Interviews with HR leaders from Fortune 500 companies support the survey's findings, with many emphasizing the urgency to redefine HR’s function. This includes building sustainable talent pipelines for AI capabilities and fostering a workplace culture that supports continuous learning.

Ultimately, the report argues that HR has a pivotal role to play in the AI transformation journey. However, to realize that potential, HR leaders must take proactive steps to evolve their departments, close existing gaps, and embed themselves in strategic decision making.