The future of hiring: AI, efficiency, and the evolving role of talent acquisition
AI is transforming talent acquisition at an unprecedented pace, and last week [27th March], Investigo had the privilege of hosting a dynamic discussion on this very topic. Set against the unique backdrop of Batch London in Seven Dials, Covent Garden, we brought together industry experts, HR and TA leaders, and AI innovators to explore the challenges and opportunities AI presents in hiring workflows.
We tackled the pressing questions on how AI is reshaping recruitment, what it means for TA professionals, and how businesses can embrace these technologies effectively and ethically.
Key takeaways from the night...
The Power and Potential of AI in Hiring
James Cochrane-Dyet, COO of Popp AI, highlighted the critical role AI is already playing in talent acquisition. TA leaders experimenting with AI are already saving up to 20% of their time per week, according to LinkedIn data. AI is helping eliminate administrative bottlenecks, allowing TA teams to focus on strategic contributions and deeper candidate relationships. With the right inputs, AI can introduce more objectivity in the hiring process than humans, reducing bias and improving equity.
However, many TA leaders are still navigating procurement risks and need structured checklists to assess AI tools effectively.
AI literacy and training – A business imperative
Amelia Pullen, Senior Consultant at Investigo, emphasised that AI literacy is now a must-have at both individual and organisational levels. Companies should introduce "AI for Everyone" training to build a baseline understanding across teams. AI should be a key consideration in DEI strategies, ensuring hiring tools are designed to minimise bias and support equitable processes.
Transparency around AI usage is vital - candidates should know when and how AI is being used in hiring. Candidates should also proactively develop their AI literacy, using tools to self-coach for interviews and enhance their own hiring potential.
Balancing AI adoption with governance
Dan Jeffery, Sales Director at BioTalent, stressed that the time to act is now. Companies delaying AI adoption risk being outpaced by competitors. Governance frameworks are crucial to ensure compliance, fairness, and responsible AI use. Businesses must acknowledge that not all candidates are equally AI-literate, meaning extra care is needed in candidate engagement and evaluation.
AI & the future of recruiters
James Cox, CEO of BioTalent, reinforced that AI is not replacing recruiters, it is elevating the profession. By automating tasks like sourcing, outreach, and scheduling, AI allows recruiters to focus on building relationships and advising stakeholders.
The bar for recruiters is rising and those who embrace AI strategically will thrive, while those relying on outdated, high-volume outreach methods may struggle. A clear AI strategy and qualification checklist (covering privacy, bias, GDPR, and compliance) is essential for businesses adopting AI in hiring.
Navigating AI with the right questions
Dave Proctor, Director – Talent Advisory at The IN Group, provided a valuable perspective on how to critically assess AI vendors and ensure a balance between curiosity and regulation. He encouraged leaders to consider key questions such as how AI talking to AI might impact candidate experience, how AI can reduce bias in hiring, and what governance measures should be in place.
He also highlighted the international opportunities AI unlocks, such as AI-driven cross-border placements, and the potential for AI to be used as a self-coaching tool for candidates preparing for interviews.
Where do TA and HR leaders go from here?
AI is here, and its impact on hiring will only grow. Whether you are just beginning your AI journey or looking to refine your approach, having a structured, informed strategy is critical.
At The IN Group, we specialise in helping TA and HR leaders navigate these challenges. With six specialist brands, we provide solutions across recruitment, talent advisory, executive search, project delivery, and emerging talent development.
If you are looking for guidance on how AI fits into your talent strategy, how to evaluate AI vendors, or how to balance AI with human engagement, our expert Dave Proctor is here to help.
Book a session with Dave to discuss your AI hiring strategy and ensure your approach is future-proof.
Let’s shape the future of talent acquisition - together.
Many attendees expressed interest in Popp AI’s innovative product. Here’s more information:
Popp has developed an AI product that helps talent teams eliminate time-consuming, administrative work that distracts them from strategic business contributions and building better relationships with candidates. The Popp team has broken down the hiring process into its component steps and has modular AI agents that can help a TA team manage any process in their funnel, from sourcing to screening to interview scheduling and much more.
