The year ahead will see HR leaders focused on four key trends: collaborating with AI to strengthen human assets, strategic HR, increased focus on employee experience and fluid HR. Based in Bray, Co Wicklow, SD Worx has recently launched 'HR Trends 2026', an in-depth report outlining what SD Worx views as the four major transformations that will redefine the world of work in the years ahead. What we are seeing is that HR leaders are viewing AI as a useful tool; this is ensuring greater use of AI. She says that by offloading repetitive tasks to AI, HR teams can devote more time to coaching, collaboration, problem-solving and culture building. Most HR leaders prefer to be a step ahead, and not to be seen as being reactive to new regulations.

Source: Irish Examiner January 09, 2026 10:38 UTC