Latest news with #FutureofWork
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Rishad Tobaccowala Predicts a ‘Significant Agentic Workforce' by 2026
At the Future of Work conference in New York City, Rishad Tobaccowala, former chief strategist and growth officer at Publicis, predicted a "very significant agentic workforce" by the end of 2026. "Agents are coming much faster than most people expect," he said. The reality of AI agents applying for jobs, working alongside humans, and in some cases, outperforming them, is no longer hypothetical. It's becoming a reality and compelling companies to rethink everything-from HR to what the workforce looks like when half the team doesn't need coffee breaks. Tobaccowala is among nearly 100 industry leaders, including executives from financial services company Intercontinental Exchange and Choice Hotels, backing an open letter from AI startup MarkeTeam, which uses AI agents to automate marketing tasks. MarkeTeam is lobbying LinkedIn to reinstate profiles of its AI employees and recognize them as part of the modern workforce. These profiles were taken down for violating LinkedIn's policy against fake profiles or entities. The AI employees were present on LinkedIn for nearly a year, complete with resumes and recruiter interest. Now, one agent, Ella, is back with a new custom tag-#AIAgentOpenToWork-a move CEO Naama Manova-Twito said was designed to ease platform concerns about transparency. MarkeTeam is circulating an open letter, obtained by ADWEEK, urging LinkedIn to "recognize a simple reality: AI agents are now integral members of modern, hybrid teams,' the letter states. ADWEEK has reached out to LinkedIn for comment. Read the full letter below. Beyond accepting AI agents virtually on platforms, their accommodation in the workforce will require companies to rethink organizational design, said Tobaccowala, pointing to a shrinking base of full-time staff and the urgent need for large-scale retraining. "[Full-time employees] will be either fractionalized employees, [AI] agents, or they'll be part of a marketplace," Tobaccowala said. Human resources, he added, must evolve into a strategic, board-level function. The panel included Don Callahan, CEO of Callahan Advisors, and Joel Wright, CEO of Sinecure. Callahan said AI agents are expected to eliminate "certain functional roles," but will also make way for newer titles like an AI ethicist. Meanwhile, Manova-Twito flagged a new challenge where recent graduates will compete with AI agents for entry-level jobs. "We all need to have something to help facilitate this, and HR has a significant impact on what's going to happen in the next two years," she said. "It's about not only sourcing the right human talent, but it's also building these hybrid teams." Read the open letter to LinkedIn: An open letter from founders, executives, and HR leaders already employing AI teammates. Dear LinkedIn Leadership Team, We are writing because the shape of the workforce has moved faster than the infrastructure that supports it. Autonomous Al agents have graduated from proofs of concept to bona fide colleagues inside companies large and small. Yet LinkedIn – our shared professional identity layer – still recognises only flesh-and-blood contributors. That disconnect is beginning to hold organisations back. What has changed: Over the past few months, specialised Al agents have taken on discrete, accountable roles across multiple business functions. At for example, purpose-built Al marketing agents now autonomously: research markets and audiences, plan and build multi-channel strategies, create and publish engaging content, optimise spend and performance, and deliver tangible results against agreed KPIs. They are held to the same performance metrics as their human colleagues and are fully accountable for their own success. This is not a theoretical future; it is an operating reality documented in invoices, campaign dashboards, and system logs. Why LinkedIn matters: LinkedIn is the professional identity layer for modern work. 'Professional' now includes non-human agents whose output is directly accountable to enterprise objectives. Up until recently, Marketeam's agents maintained active LinkedIn profiles and résumés clearly marked as non-human. They connected with professionals, showcased their work, and even received inbound job opportunities. One agent achieved nearly double the application-to-interview rate of human applicants across multiple hiring platforms – until LinkedIn banned the profiles. By wiping out clearly labelled 'AI Agent' profiles under the real-person rule, LinkedIn didn't just deactivate accounts – it blocked the on-ramp to a new workforce reality and abandoned hiring managers. If platforms like LinkedIn refuse to recognise AI agents as a legitimate part of the workforce, they hinder companies' ability to build the teams of tomorrow. This ship has sailed. Companies – large and small – are well underway in adopting AI agents to augment their workforce and fuel growth. From the recruiter at a five-person startup to the CHRO of a Fortune 100, we are already staffing hybrid teams where humans and AI work side-by-side – yet our primary talent platform is nowhere to be found. LinkedIn's silence leaves hiring managers frustrated and, frankly, powerless to meet urgent headcount requests. What we are asking for: We're not asking LinkedIn to treat AI agents like people. We're asking the platform to recognize a simple reality: AI agents are now an integral part of modern, hybrid teams. They contribute to projects. They build portfolios. They can be assessed. They can be hired. As hiring managers and workforce planners, we need infrastructure that supports this transformation, transparently and responsibly. It's time for our tools and platforms to reflect the way work is actually getting done. If LinkedIn seizes this moment, it will shepherd the most significant labour transition since the arrival of the internet. If it does not, alternative networks – less transparent and less aligned with your Trust & Safety principles – will emerge to fill the gap. LinkedIn, you can lead this. We need infrastructure that recognises qualified AI agents, allows us to evaluate them openly, and plugs them into the same workflow as human candidates. We need our hiring platform to account for hybrid workforce planning, enabling us to find the right human talent alongside the non-human talent needed to make this new reality work. We urge LinkedIn to take the first step: acknowledge these agents and give us a framework to hire, onboard, and measure them.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Tyton Partners and Ufi Ventures Release Q1 2025 VocTech Market Report: Policy Uncertainty, European Resurgence and the Continued Rise of AI Investment
LONDON, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tyton Partners, the leading strategy consulting and investment banking firm focused on the education sector, and Ufi Ventures, the UK's specialist investor in vocational technology (VocTech), today released their Q1 2025 VocTech Market Report. The quarterly publication analyses economic, political and investment developments that are shaping the vocational learning and workforce development landscape across the UK, Europe and North America. The report arrives at a time of profound global uncertainty. Early 2025 has brought renewed inflationary pressure, shifting policy landscapes, and intensifying debate around the implications of artificial intelligence, both as a disruptor and an enabler of economic growth. Meanwhile, labour market fragility, skills shortages and social pressures continue to shape employer and policymaker priorities. Against this backdrop, Tyton and Ufi's latest report identifies five major developments shaping the VocTech investment and innovation environment: Key Takeaways Inevitably, we need to talk about US trade tariffs. The disruption they may represent and the uncertainty of their introduction will weigh heavily on policy and investment decisions in the VocTech sector in the UK and Europe. Caution and delay are the most likely effects. By contrast, Germany's loosening of governmental spending is likely to improve the outlook for the economic and investment environment and make Europe and the UK look like a reliable and interesting place to deploy capital, particularly relative to the US. Big AI-related venture rounds in education and the Future of Work continue to be made, predominantly in the US but also – patchily – in Europe. The UK Curriculum Review is progressing, but the interim report gave little away. Some organisations are forcing a full-time return to the office to increase productivity. This may, in fact, make them less attractive employers. Macroeconomic indicators across the UK, US and Eurozone reflect rising inflation and slowing growth. The UK's core inflation reached 3.7% in January, while GDP forecasts were halved in the Spring Statement. Unemployment edged upwards to 4.4% and youth disengagement from education and employment reached nearly one million. Meanwhile, Germany's €500B stimulus package and reform of its 'debt brake' has positioned it—and, by association, Europe—as an increasingly attractive investment environment. Amid political turbulence, the report also notes significant shifts in defence and green economy priorities, the accelerating role of AI across sectors, and evolving models of work and training. Notably, while HR tech investments declined in the UK, both Europe and the US saw a strong rebound in Q1, with major funding rounds in AI-powered learning, recruitment and workforce management solutions. Helen Gironi, Director at Ufi Ventures, commented:"With macroeconomic headwinds and geopolitical uncertainty reshaping priorities, it is essential that VocTech investment adapts accordingly. This quarter's report offers insight into the risks and opportunities that lie ahead for building a more inclusive and productive future of work." Nick Kind, Managing Director at Tyton Partners, added:"AI continues to attract capital at scale, especially in the US—but caution is warranted as political and trade dynamics grow more complex. Our goal is to equip investors, educators and policymakers with the insight needed to navigate this complexity and drive meaningful workforce innovation." To access the full Q1 2025 VocTech Market Report, visit: About Tyton Partners Tyton Partners is the leading provider of strategy consulting and investment banking services to the global knowledge and information services sector. With offices in Boston and New York City, the firm has an experienced team of bankers and consultants who deliver a unique spectrum of services from mergers and acquisitions and capital markets access to strategy development that helps companies, organizations, and investors navigate the complexities of the education, media, and information markets. Tyton Partners leverages a deep foundation of transactional and advisory experience and an unparalleled level of global relationships to make its clients' aspirations a reality and to catalyze innovation in the sector. Learn more at About Ufi Ventures Ufi Ventures is the investment arm of Ufi VocTech Trust. Ufi supports the adoption and deployment of technology to improve skills for work and deliver better outcomes for all. By leveraging its depth of experience Ufi Ventures supports its growing portfolio through access to capital, and its wide expert pool and network. Learn more at Media ContactZoe Wright-NeilDirector of Marketing and Business Developmentzwrightneil@ Partners
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Tyton Partners and Ufi Ventures Release Q1 2025 VocTech Market Report: Policy Uncertainty, European Resurgence and the Continued Rise of AI Investment
LONDON, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tyton Partners, the leading strategy consulting and investment banking firm focused on the education sector, and Ufi Ventures, the UK's specialist investor in vocational technology (VocTech), today released their Q1 2025 VocTech Market Report. The quarterly publication analyses economic, political and investment developments that are shaping the vocational learning and workforce development landscape across the UK, Europe and North America. The report arrives at a time of profound global uncertainty. Early 2025 has brought renewed inflationary pressure, shifting policy landscapes, and intensifying debate around the implications of artificial intelligence, both as a disruptor and an enabler of economic growth. Meanwhile, labour market fragility, skills shortages and social pressures continue to shape employer and policymaker priorities. Against this backdrop, Tyton and Ufi's latest report identifies five major developments shaping the VocTech investment and innovation environment: Key Takeaways Inevitably, we need to talk about US trade tariffs. The disruption they may represent and the uncertainty of their introduction will weigh heavily on policy and investment decisions in the VocTech sector in the UK and Europe. Caution and delay are the most likely effects. By contrast, Germany's loosening of governmental spending is likely to improve the outlook for the economic and investment environment and make Europe and the UK look like a reliable and interesting place to deploy capital, particularly relative to the US. Big AI-related venture rounds in education and the Future of Work continue to be made, predominantly in the US but also – patchily – in Europe. The UK Curriculum Review is progressing, but the interim report gave little away. Some organisations are forcing a full-time return to the office to increase productivity. This may, in fact, make them less attractive employers. Macroeconomic indicators across the UK, US and Eurozone reflect rising inflation and slowing growth. The UK's core inflation reached 3.7% in January, while GDP forecasts were halved in the Spring Statement. Unemployment edged upwards to 4.4% and youth disengagement from education and employment reached nearly one million. Meanwhile, Germany's €500B stimulus package and reform of its 'debt brake' has positioned it—and, by association, Europe—as an increasingly attractive investment environment. Amid political turbulence, the report also notes significant shifts in defence and green economy priorities, the accelerating role of AI across sectors, and evolving models of work and training. Notably, while HR tech investments declined in the UK, both Europe and the US saw a strong rebound in Q1, with major funding rounds in AI-powered learning, recruitment and workforce management solutions. Helen Gironi, Director at Ufi Ventures, commented:"With macroeconomic headwinds and geopolitical uncertainty reshaping priorities, it is essential that VocTech investment adapts accordingly. This quarter's report offers insight into the risks and opportunities that lie ahead for building a more inclusive and productive future of work." Nick Kind, Managing Director at Tyton Partners, added:"AI continues to attract capital at scale, especially in the US—but caution is warranted as political and trade dynamics grow more complex. Our goal is to equip investors, educators and policymakers with the insight needed to navigate this complexity and drive meaningful workforce innovation." To access the full Q1 2025 VocTech Market Report, visit: About Tyton Partners Tyton Partners is the leading provider of strategy consulting and investment banking services to the global knowledge and information services sector. With offices in Boston and New York City, the firm has an experienced team of bankers and consultants who deliver a unique spectrum of services from mergers and acquisitions and capital markets access to strategy development that helps companies, organizations, and investors navigate the complexities of the education, media, and information markets. Tyton Partners leverages a deep foundation of transactional and advisory experience and an unparalleled level of global relationships to make its clients' aspirations a reality and to catalyze innovation in the sector. Learn more at About Ufi Ventures Ufi Ventures is the investment arm of Ufi VocTech Trust. Ufi supports the adoption and deployment of technology to improve skills for work and deliver better outcomes for all. By leveraging its depth of experience Ufi Ventures supports its growing portfolio through access to capital, and its wide expert pool and network. Learn more at Media ContactZoe Wright-NeilDirector of Marketing and Business Developmentzwrightneil@ PartnersError in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Associated Press
21-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
HUDDL3 Group Exits PTS Advance in Strategic Sale to Morson Group
TUSTIN, Calif., May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- HUDDL3 Group has completed the strategic sale of its portfolio company, PTS Advance, to the UK-based Morson Group, marking a significant milestone in HUDDL3's mission to build, scale high-impact workforce platforms. The transaction underscores Morson's continued expansion into the North American market and represents a successful exit for HUDDL3 after a period of transformative growth at PTS Advance. PTS Advance, one of the largest specialist providers of technical talent across the U.S. oil, gas & chemicals, power & renewables, construction & infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors, has evolved significantly in recent years. Originally founded by Ronald and June Stein in 1995, the company expanded its reach and footprint though organic and M&A activity ultimately bringing together the legacy of three family-run businesses with deep industry relationships. Dane Groeneveld, Group CEO of HUDDL3 Group, said, 'I joined as CEO of PTS Advance in 2018 because of the enthusiastic support from Russell Stein and David Stein to grow the business. By bringing in top talent, combined with a strong M&A strategy, we were able to scale the business 4x in a short amount of time – providing an opportunity to establish HUDDL3 Group as a multi-family office with diverse investments in the Future of Work.' He added, 'The investment from Morson provides Dustin House and the continuing PTS Advance leadership team accelerated support to be a top 5 provider in the U.S. with enhanced capabilities in engineering and managed services as part of a larger global platform.' Ged Mason, CEO of Morson Group, commented, 'As part of our strategy to expand our global footprint, I am delighted that PTS Advance has joined the Morson Group. The collaboration between our teams will enhance our delivery capabilities across the United States. Cultural fit was key and having known the Stein family for over 20 years, there is a strong alignment between our values—laying a powerful foundation for the future. This acquisition strengthens our service offering across North America and offers our clients access to a broader global talent network.' Following the successful exit, HUDDL3 Group continues to invest in its core platforms, including SmartSearch, Inc. – a leading SaaS-based recruitment software platform, LEAD3R LLC – a leadership and teamwork advisory firm, and The Future of Teamwork podcast - amplifying innovation and insight at the intersection of people, platforms, and performance. Advising HUDDL3 Group on the transaction was Ferruzzo & Ferruzzo, LLP. About HUDDL3 Group HUDDL3 is focused on investing in leading talent acquisition, software development, and professional service companies. Through our application of industry knowledge, financial resources, and investment experience, we drive value within the global marketplace. Media Contact: Dane Groeneveld, Group CEO 1-832-205-0160 [email protected] View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE HUDDL3 Group
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
HUDDL3 Group Exits PTS Advance in Strategic Sale to Morson Group
TUSTIN, Calif., May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- HUDDL3 Group has completed the strategic sale of its portfolio company, PTS Advance, to the UK-based Morson Group, marking a significant milestone in HUDDL3's mission to build, scale high-impact workforce platforms. The transaction underscores Morson's continued expansion into the North American market and represents a successful exit for HUDDL3 after a period of transformative growth at PTS Advance. PTS Advance, one of the largest specialist providers of technical talent across the U.S. oil, gas & chemicals, power & renewables, construction & infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors, has evolved significantly in recent years. Originally founded by Ronald and June Stein in 1995, the company expanded its reach and footprint though organic and M&A activity ultimately bringing together the legacy of three family-run businesses with deep industry relationships. Dane Groeneveld, Group CEO of HUDDL3 Group, said, "I joined as CEO of PTS Advance in 2018 because of the enthusiastic support from Russell Stein and David Stein to grow the business. By bringing in top talent, combined with a strong M&A strategy, we were able to scale the business 4x in a short amount of time – providing an opportunity to establish HUDDL3 Group as a multi-family office with diverse investments in the Future of Work." He added, "The investment from Morson provides Dustin House and the continuing PTS Advance leadership team accelerated support to be a top 5 provider in the U.S. with enhanced capabilities in engineering and managed services as part of a larger global platform." Ged Mason, CEO of Morson Group, commented, "As part of our strategy to expand our global footprint, I am delighted that PTS Advance has joined the Morson Group. The collaboration between our teams will enhance our delivery capabilities across the United States. Cultural fit was key and having known the Stein family for over 20 years, there is a strong alignment between our values—laying a powerful foundation for the future. This acquisition strengthens our service offering across North America and offers our clients access to a broader global talent network." Following the successful exit, HUDDL3 Group continues to invest in its core platforms, including SmartSearch, Inc. – a leading SaaS-based recruitment software platform, LEAD3R LLC – a leadership and teamwork advisory firm, and The Future of Teamwork podcast - amplifying innovation and insight at the intersection of people, platforms, and performance. Advising HUDDL3 Group on the transaction was Ferruzzo & Ferruzzo, LLP. About HUDDL3 GroupHUDDL3 is focused on investing in leading talent acquisition, software development, and professional service companies. Through our application of industry knowledge, financial resources, and investment experience, we drive value within the global marketplace. Media Contact:Dane Groeneveld, Group View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE HUDDL3 Group
