AI isn’t just a technological shift, it’s reshaping the way we think about work, culture, and even how we connect with one another. Few topics spark as much debate, but avoiding the conversation isn’t an option.
The real questions we must confront are clear: how will AI transform the way we work and how will it redefine the way we live and communicate on a broader scale?
Predictions about AI’s impact on the world of work are wildly divergent ranging from fears of mass redundancies to expectations of only minor industry shifts. Some see the potential for economy-shaping growth and whole new sectors of employment, while others anticipate little more than incremental gains. The only certainty is that the future remains uncertain.
The uncertain future of work
With the Trades Union Congress’ recent report calling for business leaders and the UK government to build an AI innovation strategy with workers and business practices at the core of its approach, it is clear that AI isn’t just a technology strategy – it’s a leadership test.
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The TUC is right to raise concerns: if left unchecked, AI risks entrenching inequality, but with the right leaders, it can drive inclusion, innovation, and long-term growth. Rapid technological advancement only delivers widespread social progress when business leaders and working people are empowered.
At Friisberg, we see the organisations that thrive are those where Boards put people at the centre of their AI strategies – the key question is how leaders can best prepare for that responsibility.
AI as a strategic ally in executive search
In the Executive Search field, human insight, critical thinking, and expert judgement are non-negotiables in the successful placement of candidates. Yet in the high-stakes world of talent acquisition, AI can be utilised as a powerful ally, rather than as a threat. Recent insights have shown the array of benefits that AI can reap in the world of Executive Search.
A 2025 Frazer Jones study found that AI can speed up C-suite hiring at a rate of 30-50%. Executive placements are notoriously time-sensitive and delayed hires at the C-suite level can cost companies millions in missed opportunities, weakened leadership, and organisational drift. With AI accelerating candidate identification and matching by up to 50%, firms that integrate AI gain a distinct edge in delivering results faster, without sacrificing quality. In an industry where timing is often the differentiator, this kind of efficiency is transformative.
Most traditional headhunting still leans heavily on professional networks and platforms like LinkedIn. However, today’s top talent isn’t always broadcasting their availability, or even their full potential, online. HelloSky, an AI talent and company intelligence platform, is a noteworthy case study. In a Business Insider profile, founder and CEO, Alex Bates, provided an insight into the ways in which AI can be better utilised by those in Executive Search.
By aggregating data from non-obvious sources and applying sophisticated pattern recognition, these AI tools surface “hidden” candidates who may not appear in standard searches, but are high-value prospects based on career trajectory, skill alignment, or cultural fit.
Reducing time wasted on day to day menial tasks can allow Executive Search experts to spend more time investing in leadership assessment and client relationships. With human judgement at the core of these critical decisions, automating the monotonous can only improve the quality of placements.
In the near future, tools that generate live org charts, attrition risk models, and predictive talent maps, will become standard in leading firms as they are increasingly informed by data analytics.
Investing in the future of AI and human expertise
Firms will increasingly invest in AI tools. According to a 2024 McKinsey report, over 90% of companies reported increasing their budgets for AI across HR and talent acquisition and Executive Search firms will not be immune to this wave.
From intelligent sourcing tools to platforms that assess leadership potential or simulate team dynamics, the range of AI solutions is expanding rapidly. Firms that fail to invest in these technologies risk falling behind, both in efficiency and in the ability to deliver value to increasingly tech-savvy clients.
At Friisberg, we see this not as a threat, but as an opportunity. The combination of cutting-edge AI tools combined with our deep human expertise is where real value lies. Technology can accelerate processes and surface new insights, but only people can assess cultural fit, potential, and leadership qualities.
The future of Executive Search will not be AI instead of humans, but AI with humans.
For over 20 years, Zoltán Pethõ has led succession, leadership development and coaching assignments for CEO, Board and C-suite roles across all sectors, including finance, professional services, pharmaceuticals and agriculture in Hungary and across Central and Eastern Europe.
He is a trusted advisor to both local and global companies across all aspects of executive search. Zoltán has a deep specialism in talent management, strategy and CEO succession planning with clients including public and private companies as well as private equity-backed companies.
Having been elected President of Friisberg by his fellow Partners in 2021, he is responsible for its strategic direction & growth and leads the firm's Executive Committee.
