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Unveiling Thailand's Top Ten Talent trends for 2025

As Thailand continues to embrace rapid technological advancements and sustainability initiatives, its workforce landscape is evolving in transformative ways. From the rise of smart factories to the increasing emphasis on sustainability, multilingual skills, and hybrid work models, businesses are redefining their talent priorities to stay competitive in a dynamic global market.

In this article, we uncover the top trends that will shape Thailand’s workforce in 2025.

Whether it’s the surge in demand for automation engineers, sustainability managers, or professionals adept at navigating hybrid workplace dynamics, these insights will equip businesses and talent alike to thrive in the years ahead.

Read on to explore the trends driving Thailand’s workforce forward.

1. Automation and AI fuel Manufacturing talent surge

Though Thailand has long held an enviable reputation for its manufacturing industry, becoming the location for Southeast Asia’s first fully connected 5G factory in 2024 has elevated that reputation significantly. As a result, the rest of the industry is looking to take similar strides, leading to more organisations transforming operations into ‘smart factories.’ This positive disruption to the manufacturing and supply chain sectors – particularly in automation, robotics, AI, and the continuing rise of Industry 4.0 – is driving demand for talent who can oversee, optimise, and manage advanced technologies to boost productivity and efficiency. Automation engineers and managers who can design, implement, and maintain automated systems and robotics will be in particularly high demand in 2025.

2. Tech-driven Supply Chains demands digital talent

Exposed to the instability of global demand caused by international conflict and heightened competition, supply chains are perennially at a high risk of disruption. In order to minimise this risk, organisations are developing digital transformation strategies that will also improve agility, enhance productivity, and increase profits. As Thailand emerges as a key investment destination for supply chain operations, digital technologies such as blockchain, IoT, and data analytics will be crucial for improving supply chain transparency, efficiency, and resilience. As a consequence of this accelerated digital adoption, professionals skilled in digital tools tailored to the Thai market are required in sales departments. Also in high demand are supply chain analysts who are experts in data analytics, supply chain operations, forecast demand, and operational efficiency.

3. Sustainability leads Thailand green Manufacturing revolution

Thailand is strengthening its commitment to sustainability with the drafting of the Climate Change Act, the country’s first climate-focused legislation. This commitment is further reinforced by aligned policy implementations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Organisations will reflect this by putting in place strategies of their own to reduce their carbon footprints, creating opportunities for professionals with expertise in sustainable practices, waste reduction, and emissions management. This means that sustainability managers who can develop and oversee sustainable manufacturing practices will become a hot talent target, as will those with expertise in sustainability-focused sales. As the focus on environmentally conscious manufacturing grows, candidates are also demonstrating similar sensibilities as they show more interest in roles that contribute to environmental responsibility and sustainability. As a result, organisations pursuing the top talent must be clearer in their eco-friendly practices.

4. Reskilling essential to stay competitive rapidly evolving landscape

This rapid technological advancement throughout Thailand’s industrial sectors necessitates a focus on reskilling and upskilling talent to stay on top of developmental trends in automation, digital tools, and new technologies, allowing companies to remain competitive in a tech-driven landscape. As a result, companies are expected to invest heavily in continuous learning programs and foster innovation, while in recruitment they are prioritising adaptable candidates willing to acquire and enhance new skills. Talent looking to advance their careers will do well to seek employers who invest in continuous learning and development and offer training programs to keep up with rapid technological changes, equipping them to meet evolving industry requirements.

5. Multi-lingual talent strengthens Thailand’s market reach

Thailand’s status as one of the most influential of the ASEAN countries continues to rise, with businesses expanding across the region’s borders. This upward trend means that candidates looking to advance will be expected to be multi-lingual. While English proficiency has historically been the standard, the rise of China’s economic influence has increased the demand for Chinese language skills, a language that has gradually replaced Japanese as the primary second foreign language after English. However, language ability is not enough, and organisations require candidates with a deep understanding of cross-cultural practices. This trend points to a competitive edge for talent with these skills, especially in industries such as petrochemicals, automotive, and manufacturing. In addition, B2B sales professionals and regional sales managers who can oversee cross-border sales activities are highly valuable.

6. Sustainability and social responsibility are leading hiring trends

Thailand is currently undergoing something of an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) revolution, and in 2025 this will become central to recruitment. 2024 saw this drive begin in earnest, with the Thai Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) launching mutual funds to support the country’s ESG efforts, a movement that was bolstered in mid-year in a bid to revive stock market sluggishness. 2025 will see this drive continue with determination as Companies emphasise ESG-aligned roles to meet regulatory standards and consumer expectations for environmental responsibility. The demand for ESG-focused roles, such as sustainability managers and green practices experts, is rising across the sector to drive environmentally responsible initiatives across sectors including chemicals, petrochemicals, and manufacturing.

7. Workplace safety and wellness standards on the rise

Health, safety, and well-being standards in Thai workplaces are expected to rise in importance in 2025, reflecting an increased focus on employee well-being. Much of this trend is directed by the Thai government, as the Thailand Institute of Occupational Safety and Health explores campaigns to improve occupational health and safety not only domestically but across Southeast Asia. In a time when technology in the workplace becomes more and more complex, it is essential that those whose duties involve safety management possess greater levels of expertise. Organisations are prioritising talent who can develop, implement, and oversee robust health and safety protocols, particularly in sectors like manufacturing and logistics where workplace risks are higher. Professionals who understand occupational health, regulatory compliance, and employee wellness initiatives will be crucial to meet stricter workplace safety regulations and to foster a culture of care.

8. Winning the talent war with a strong employer identity

Thailand’s workforce is proving to be increasingly selective, favouring employers with a positive reputation and supportive work environments. Therefore, we are seeing more and more companies investing in employer branding to stand out in a competitive talent market and attract and retain skilled professionals. To do so, organisations are tailoring recruitment marketing to showcase what makes them desirable by communicating organisational mission, sustainability initiatives, and employee benefits to potential hires, aiming to create a magnetic brand identity that resonates with job seekers and distinguishes companies in crowded recruitment landscapes. Successful companies will showcase their company culture with a strong online presence through employee testimonials and success stories, promote DE&I, and, most importantly, define a clear and attractive unique value proposition (UVP).

9. Workplace safety and wellness standards on the rise

Health, safety, and well-being standards in Thai workplaces are expected to rise in importance in 2025, reflecting an increased focus on employee well-being. Much of this trend is directed by the Thai government, as the Thailand Institute of Occupational Safety and Health explores campaigns to improve occupational health and safety not only domestically but across Southeast Asia. In a time when technology in the workplace becomes more and more complex, it is essential that those whose duties involve safety management possess greater levels of expertise. Organisations are prioritising talent who can develop, implement, and oversee robust health and safety protocols, particularly in sectors like manufacturing and logistics where workplace risks are higher. Professionals who understand occupational health, regulatory compliance, and employee wellness initiatives will be crucial to meet stricter workplace safety regulations and to foster a culture of care.

10. Winning the talent war with a strong employer identity

Thailand’s workforce is proving to be increasingly selective, favouring employers with a positive reputation and supportive work environments. Therefore, we are seeing more and more companies investing in employer branding to stand out in a competitive talent market and attract and retain skilled professionals. To do so, organisations are tailoring recruitment marketing to showcase what makes them desirable by communicating organisational mission, sustainability initiatives, and employee benefits to potential hires, aiming to create a magnetic brand identity that resonates with job seekers and distinguishes companies in crowded recruitment landscapes. Successful companies will showcase their company culture with a strong online presence through employee testimonials and success stories, promote DE&I, and, most importantly, define a clear and attractive unique value proposition (UVP).

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