Mumbai, Feb 4 (PTI) – India’s rapid economic expansion is creating a surge in job opportunities for global talent, particularly in high-growth sectors such as semiconductors, electric vehicles (EVs), defence, and aerospace, according to executive search firm Claricent Partners.
Jyoti Bowen Nath, Managing Partner at Claricent Partners, highlighted the growing demand for international professionals, especially at the C-suite level, within these industries. “We are witnessing a significant influx of global talent, not just in executive roles but also in the leadership pipeline, across semiconductors, EVs, defence, and aerospace. These sectors are experiencing a 50-60% year-on-year growth in job opportunities,” she stated.
Beyond C-suite executives, Nath noted a strong demand for leadership roles at the N-1 and N-2 levels (positions just below top executives). "Companies are actively strengthening their leadership pipelines to build capable teams across multiple levels," she said.
Both homegrown and international firms are playing crucial roles in shaping India's workforce, bringing in diverse expertise to fuel innovation and sectoral expansion.
"Companies also offer attractive perks like ESOPs, signing bonuses, tax assistance, and flexible work arrangements to retain global talent," Nath explained.
Among the most sought-after niche roles are:
As India continues on its growth trajectory, its rising demand for skilled global professionals is set to shape the future of its workforce, fostering innovation and driving industrial progress.
Jyoti Bowen Nath, Managing Partner at Claricent Partners, highlighted the growing demand for international professionals, especially at the C-suite level, within these industries. “We are witnessing a significant influx of global talent, not just in executive roles but also in the leadership pipeline, across semiconductors, EVs, defence, and aerospace. These sectors are experiencing a 50-60% year-on-year growth in job opportunities,” she stated.
India’s Expanding Market and Talent Demand
India’s semiconductor market is projected to reach USD 8.85 billion by 2025, while the EV market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 28.52%, reaching USD 18.319 billion by 2029. Additionally, the aerospace and defence sector is expected to expand to USD 48.41 billion by 2032, making these industries key drivers of talent acquisition.Beyond C-suite executives, Nath noted a strong demand for leadership roles at the N-1 and N-2 levels (positions just below top executives). "Companies are actively strengthening their leadership pipelines to build capable teams across multiple levels," she said.
Future Sectors to Watch
Nath identified EVs, lithium battery technology, semiconductors, digital transformation, AI, defence, and aerospace as key sectors poised to attract significant global talent in the coming years. "As these industries continue to innovate, there is an increasing need for specialised expertise to drive technological advancements and business growth," she added.Both homegrown and international firms are playing crucial roles in shaping India's workforce, bringing in diverse expertise to fuel innovation and sectoral expansion.
Policy Adjustments for Global Talent
To facilitate the transition of international professionals, many companies are introducing policy adjustments. These include relocation assistance, housing benefits, educational support for children, and comprehensive health and wellness packages."Companies also offer attractive perks like ESOPs, signing bonuses, tax assistance, and flexible work arrangements to retain global talent," Nath explained.
India’s Key Talent Hubs
Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi are emerging as prime hubs for international professionals, particularly at the C-suite level. "These cities are attracting global talent due to their strong economic growth, industrial expansion, and increasing demand for leadership expertise," Nath noted.Among the most sought-after niche roles are:
- Chief Operating Officers (COOs) with turnaround experience,
- Chief Legal Officers (CLOs),
- Executives specialising in digital transformation and artificial intelligence.
Reverse Brain Drain: Skilled Indians Returning
A notable trend is the return of highly skilled Indian professionals who have worked abroad. "The expanding industries, particularly in technology, digital transformation, and manufacturing, are creating attractive opportunities, encouraging overseas talent to return and contribute to India's economic development," Nath stated.As India continues on its growth trajectory, its rising demand for skilled global professionals is set to shape the future of its workforce, fostering innovation and driving industrial progress.