Ionuț Huzu, Commercial Director of Randstad Romania: Even in the era of AI and automation, leadership is deeply personal

One key focus is resilient leadership – staying adaptable in uncertainty, making bold yet informed decisions, and fostering a culture of autonomy and continuous learning to drive long-term success.

Outsourcing Today, the business services industry’s community networking and news integrated platform, resumes the series of interviews dedicated to evolution, expectations and opportunities in business services and related industries.

We invite business leaders, managers of strategic departments of companies, key voices in their field to share with us their insights depicting the new beginning of this year in business, how it looks, how it is anticipated, what adjustments are included in 2025’s agenda and the perspective of growth.

Find the full series of interviews here

We spoke recently with Ionuț Huzu, Commercial Director of Randstad Romania about the business evolution, trends and expectations of growth.
Find below the insights:

Strategic Vision and Market Trends

What are the key trends you believe will shape your industry in 2025?
The world of work is evolving faster than ever, and 2025 will be defined by several key trends that will reshape the recruitment and HR industry. AI and automation will continue to transform talent acquisition, making hiring processes more efficient while emphasizing the need for human oversight and ethical AI use.

Additionally, skills-based hiring is gaining momentum as companies shift from traditional qualifications to a focus on capabilities, adaptability, and potential. This aligns with the growing demand for reskilling and upskilling, particularly in tech-driven industries.

Another major trend is the evolution of hybrid work models. While flexibility remains crucial, businesses are now focusing on optimizing productivity, culture, and employee engagement in remote and in-office settings. At Randstad, we believe that companies prioritizing employee well-being, inclusivity, and work-life balance will attract and retain top talent in this competitive landscape.

Finally, we cannot ignore the impact of economic shifts and geopolitical uncertainty. Talent mobility, workforce planning, and the ability to adapt recruitment strategies to global disruptions will be key in staying ahead.

What major adjustments should a business consider this year, in the context of local market competition and worldwide challenges?
In today’s fast-changing market, businesses must be agile, data-driven, and people-centric to stay competitive. Here are three key adjustments for 2025:
• Bridging skill gaps: With ongoing labor shortages and evolving job demands, companies must invest in workforce planning, internal talent development, and AI-driven insights to secure top talent.
• Strengthening employer branding: Attracting talent is no longer just about salary; it’s about purpose, flexibility, and growth. Organizations that prioritize DEI, sustainability, and employee experience will have a major competitive edge.
• Accelerating digital transformation: AI-powered recruitment, HR automation, and data-driven decision-making will redefine hiring. At Randstad, we continuously evolve our digital capabilities to provide faster, more personalized solutions.

Additionally, businesses must think globally but act locally, navigating regional labor laws and economic shifts while maintaining a strong global talent strategy.

What leadership aspects are you carrying into 2025?
At Randstad, people are at the heart of everything we do, and that principle remains central to leadership in 2025. One key focus is resilient leadership – staying adaptable in uncertainty, making bold yet informed decisions, and fostering a culture of autonomy and continuous learning to drive long-term success.

Purpose-driven leadership is also more important than ever. Employees seek meaning in their work, and companies that prioritize sustainability, social responsibility, and inclusive opportunities will attract and retain top talent. Our role as leaders is to align business success with societal progress.
Lastly, authenticity and human connection are fundamental. Even in the era of AI and automation, leadership is deeply personal. Building trust, championing well-being, and fostering an inclusive culture will remain my top priorities in 2025.

People and Sustainability
What steps is your company taking to align with sustainability goals in 2025?
Sustainability is embedded in everything we do at Randstad. In 2025, we are strengthening our commitment through three key areas:
• Workforce sustainability: Ensuring people have access to lifelong learning, upskilling, and meaningful career opportunities.
• Environmental impact: Reducing our carbon footprint by optimizing operations, digitizing processes, and collaborating with clients on sustainable workforce strategies.
• Social responsibility: Supporting inclusive hiring practices and advocating for fair labor conditions worldwide.

How do you engage people in your teams to ensure long-term sustainability in your operations?
Our people are the driving force behind our sustainability efforts. We focus on:
• Embedding purpose into our culture so employees feel connected to a larger mission.
• Empowering teams through training and innovation, ensuring they have the skills and tools to contribute to sustainable business practices.
• Encouraging accountability, where sustainability is a shared responsibility across all levels of the organization.

Which are the main aspects to be considered in 2025 in terms of DEI and ESG?
In 2025, companies must go beyond policies and focus on real impact.
• DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion): True inclusion means removing barriers, closing opportunity gaps, and ensuring diversity at all levels. We are committed to inclusive hiring and workplace equity.
• ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance): Transparency and measurable actions are key. Businesses must report their progress in sustainable practices, ethical labor standards, and governance policies.

What are the priorities for nurturing talent and building a resilient workforce this year?
The key to resilience lies in adaptability and continuous learning. Our priorities in 2025 include:
• Investing in skills development—Helping workers stay ahead in a rapidly changing job market.
• Supporting employee well-being—Mental health, work-life balance, and career growth are essential for long-term engagement.
• Leveraging technology responsibly—AI and automation should enhance, not replace, human potential.

At Randstad, we are committed to creating a future of work that is sustainable, inclusive, and people-driven.

Innovation and Digital Transformation

What role does innovation play in the company’s business strategy for this year? In what business aspects should it be more integrated?
Innovation is at the core of Randstad’s strategy in 2025, helping us stay ahead in an evolving labor market. This year, we are focusing on:
• AI-driven talent solutions: Enhancing efficiency in sourcing, matching, and engaging candidates.
• Digital-first recruitment processes: Automating repetitive tasks to allow consultants to focus on human connections.
• Data-driven decision-making: Leveraging insights to optimize workforce planning and improve hiring outcomes.

Innovation must be seamlessly integrated into all business areas—from candidate experience and employer branding to internal operations and sustainability efforts.

What emerging technologies are you planning to leverage for business growth this year?
We are continuously exploring technologies that enhance our services and create better workforce solutions. Key areas of investment in 2025 include:
• AI and machine learning: To improve candidate-job matching, reduce hiring biases, and personalize career development.
• Predictive analytics: Helping businesses anticipate labor market trends and workforce needs.
• Blockchain in HR: Ensuring secure, transparent credential verification and contract management.
• Conversational AI & chatbots: Enhancing candidate engagement and speeding up recruitment processes.

Looking Ahead
For Randstad, 2025 is about embracing agility, driving innovation, and putting people at the forefront.

We’re not just shaping the future of work; we’re committed to being the world’s most equitable and specialized talent partner, empowering businesses and talent alike to succeed in an ever-evolving market