Study identifies skills for more competitive financial sector workforce
A study commissioned by the Institute of Banking and Finance Singapore (IBF) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has set out how data analytics and automation are likely to augment or transform 121 job roles in Singapore’s financial sector over the next 3 to 5 years.
The study, conducted by Ernst & Young over the last nine months and released by Minister for Manpower, Mrs Josephine Teo, also identified the skills necessary to perform the new tasks enabled by data analytics and automation.
The IBF-MAS study found that about half of the 121 job roles analysed would be augmented as individuals leverage these technologies to amplify their performance. Another one third of job roles would be transformed, as technology substitutes a significant proportion of job tasks, and remaining tasks across synergistic job roles converge into new roles.
Across all job roles, individuals would be required to take on new or expanded tasks that have a higher element of judgement and creativity, while tasks of a more repetitive and rules-based nature are automated. The study also identified emerging job roles that would grow in demand with the adoption of data analytics and automation in the sector.
The study is one of the most comprehensive of its type ever carried out globally. A total of 121 job roles across banking, capital markets, asset management and insurance sectors were mapped out, representing most jobs in the financial services industry.
It provides a compass for financial institutions and individuals to prepare themselves for the future of work as the use of data analytics and automation become pervasive in the financial sector. A copy of the study report is available on the IBF and MAS websites.
“Business transformation alone is not enough. We also need workforce transformation. This study will help us uplift our workforce, harness the power of data analytics and automation, and make Singapore’s financial centre more competitive,” said Mr Ng Nam Sin, Chief Executive Officer of IBF.
Mr Patrick Tay, Assistant Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), said, “Across all industries, emerging technologies are bringing about challenges and opportunities to businesses and workers alike. The study is a practical tool for financial institutions and workers to learn about the impact of key technology trends and prepare themselves as job roles evolve. Workers should stay agile and adaptable, adopt a growth mind set and embrace life-long learning, to grow professionally and enhance career opportunities. We look forward to further strengthen our tripartite partnership to facilitate proactive efforts in helping workers ride the wave of change.”
New programme for growth areas in technology
Minister Teo launched the TFIP, which is targeted at professionals who are keen to start a career in some of the new and emerging roles identified in the study. The programme will complement existing professional conversion programmes in helping individuals acquire skills that are in demand.
Developed by IBF and WSG and in partnership with Infocomm Media Development Authority, MAS and industry stakeholders, TFIP will offer training and attachment opportunities in Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics and Full Stack Development.
“Tech skills is a hot currency in today’s digital economy, with the demand for infocomm professionals in Singapore expected to grow across all sectors over the next few years. We are committed to support our local workers in tech skills training, so that they can continue to seize new and better opportunities that arise from technological shifts in the financial sector,” said Mr Howie Lau, Chief Industry Development Officer, Industry Development Group, IMDA.
SOURCE: MAS
