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The rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has fuelled debate about the future of work, intensifying concerns about automation and job displacement. While AI is reshaping some jobs, Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India are seeking professionals with the skills to build, deploy, govern and scale these technologies.

Data scientists, AI engineers, machine learning specialists, cloud architects, cybersecurity experts and platform engineers are among the most sought-after professionals.

As GCCs evolve beyond their traditional role as cost-focused delivery centres and take on innovation and transformation mandates, access to specialised talent is increasingly shaping their growth prospects and competitive advantage. India remains the world’s largest GCC destination, hosting more than 2,100 centres that employ over 2.3 million professionals and generate close to US$100 billion in annual revenue.

Data shows that demand is especially high for Generative AI specialists, MLOps engineers, data architects, cloud professionals, platform reliability engineers and cybersecurity experts. As organisations embed AI into core business functions, the need for specialised talent continues to grow.

However, rapid hiring reveals a widening skills gap. According to a People Matters report, shortages of AI and data analytics talent range from 38 to 42 per cent, making these roles among the hardest to fill in the GCC ecosystem. This scarcity prompts organisations to revise compensation, invest in reskilling and compete for professionals with niche expertise.

Although India is a leading AI hiring market, few GCCs are truly AI-native. Many have integrated AI tools into workflows, but few have mature AI operating models, governance frameworks and deep technical expertise needed for AI-first enterprises. This capability gap sustains demand for advanced talent even as automation changes traditional roles.

The changing talent landscape mirrors the evolving role of GCCs. They are now responsible for product development, enterprise technology platforms, cybersecurity operations, digital transformation and AI-led innovation. Global enterprises increasingly entrust their India-based teams with mission-critical responsibilities, elevating the strategic importance of the country’s talent ecosystem.

To address the talent shortage, organisations are implementing various workforce strategies. Internal academies, partnerships with educational institutions, AI-focused certification programmes and accelerated upskilling are common. Many GCCs are expanding their search to Tier-2 cities, while contract- and project-based hiring models are gaining popularity for greater flexibility in accessing specialised expertise.

Ultimately, India’s future as a global GCC leader will depend less on infrastructure and cost and more on building a workforce ready for an AI-driven future. As the sector advances, talent may become its most valuable asset.