AI reshapes India’s tech workforce, says Infosys tech chief
DAVOS, SWITZERLAND — The Indian IT industry, historically built on the ‘pyramid’ model of talent management, is undergoing a paradigm shift.
Speaking with the Reuters Global Markets Forum at the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos 2025, Infosys Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Rafee Tarafdar emphasized that the traditional structure—employing a large base of entry-level staff and progressively fewer at senior levels—may no longer suit the evolving demands of the tech landscape.
“I think [see] the talent model will undergo some change. What shape and form it comes (in), I think that’s something that we’ll have to see,” said Tarafdar, highlighting Infosys’ internal experiments to adapt to these changes.
Generative AI spurs new roles
Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is reshaping job roles across the IT sector, automating repetitive tasks while creating demand for specialized skills in areas like responsible AI and model engineering.
Infosys has already introduced such roles and developed four small language models for banking, IT operations, cybersecurity, and enterprise applications. These innovations are being offered as services to clients, showcasing the company’s forward-looking approach.
Tarafdar explained that Infosys is balancing workforce upskilling with strategic hiring. “In that way, I would say between the continuum, everybody is moving—either re-skilling or evolving their current skills, or we are hiring completely new type(s) of people,” he noted.
Upskilling becomes a strategic priority
As GenAI adoption accelerates, companies are investing heavily in reskilling programs to bridge skill gaps.
According to a 2025 report by Info-Tech Research Group, 65% of organizations anticipate structural changes due to AI, including forming specialized teams. Infosys’ approach aligns with this trend, ensuring its workforce remains competitive in an AI-driven future.
Future talent needs: Responsible AI and beyond
Looking ahead, Tarafdar predicts a surge in demand for expertise in responsible AI and model engineering. With ethical AI practices becoming a cornerstone of business strategies, companies like Infosys are positioning themselves as leaders in this transformative era.
As India’s IT sector adapts to these sweeping changes, its ability to blend innovation with strategic talent management will determine its continued global leadership in technology services.
