The conversation around artificial intelligence often sparks fears of job losses. But a new report from Colliers suggests a different story is unfolding, one of transformation rather than replacement, especially in fast-growing markets like India.
The Rise of the AI-Enabled Workforce
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latest 'Asia Pacific Workplace Insights' report from Colliers makes it clear: AI is fundamentally reshaping the workforce. A stunning 100% of corporate occupiers surveyed expect AI to create entirely new, specialised roles that demand different skills and new ways of collaborating. Instead of simply replacing humans, the technology is augmenting their capabilities, driving demand for talent that can work alongside intelligent systems. This shift is particularly pronounced in India, which is rapidly emerging as a global hub for AI talent, supported by a massive digital ecosystem and a young, skilled workforce. Companies are no longer just thinking about automation; they're planning for a future where human creativity and critical thinking are enhanced, not sidelined, by technology.
From Traditional Roles to Tech-Infused Specialists
The report highlights that the biggest impact of AI isn't just on headcount, but on the nature of work itself. As routine tasks become automated, the value of human employees shifts towards more complex, strategic, and creative functions. This is creating demand for roles that didn't exist a few years ago. Think of positions like AI trainers, data storytellers, and ethics officers. A separate report notes a 20% year-on-year rise in hiring for AI and machine learning roles in India as of September 2026. While some traditional jobs may be displaced, the Colliers survey shows that a majority of businesses expect AI to drive demand for new kinds of tech-enabled, collaborative office spaces, not widespread contraction.
The 'Portfolio AI' Strategist
One of the key areas Colliers identifies for AI's impact is in corporate real estate (CRE) itself. The firm has developed its own 'Portfolio AI' tool, which exemplifies the new skill sets required. This technology analyzes a company’s entire real estate portfolio to find opportunities for optimization, from energy usage to space utilization. This creates a need for specialists who can manage and interpret these AI-driven recommendations. These professionals must understand both real estate strategy and data analytics, bridging the gap between technology and physical assets. They assess AI-generated insights on market trends, risk factors, and operational efficiencies to make smarter, faster investment decisions.
The Smart Building and IoT Manager
The convergence of AI with the Internet of Things (IoT) is another major trend identified in Colliers' research, creating specialised roles in facilities management. Modern buildings are packed with sensors that generate vast amounts of data on everything from energy consumption to space usage patterns. A new type of manager is needed to harness this data using AI platforms. These specialists oversee systems that can predict maintenance needs, optimise energy use in real_time, and ensure the workplace is efficient and healthy. Their job is less about reacting to problems and more about using predictive analytics to keep buildings running at peak performance, a skill set that is becoming indispensable for landlords and corporate occupiers alike.
The Human Capital and Collaboration Expert
According to the Colliers survey, 62% of companies expect AI to lead to more project_based or cross_functional teams. This shift demands a new focus on human capital. In markets like India and Southeast Asia, AI's impact is seen primarily through a human lens, with over 40% of firms ranking new AI_driven roles and collaboration models as a top priority. This creates a specialised role for HR and operations leaders who can redesign workforce structures to maximise the productivity gains from AI. They are responsible for fostering a culture of continuous learning, upskilling employees to work with new technologies, and designing physical and virtual workspaces that facilitate the dynamic, collaborative work that AI enables.
