“TCS to Recruit 40,000 Fresh Graduates, Highlights AI Proficiency as Key Skill at All Levels: CHRO”
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has announced plans to hire 40,000 fresh graduates from campuses this year, with a strong focus on artificial intelligence (AI) skills across all levels of its hierarchy. This comes amid a reported headcount reduction of over 5,000 employees in the third quarter of FY 2024-25.
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has announced plans to hire 40,000 fresh graduates from campuses this year, with a strong focus on artificial intelligence (AI) skills across all levels of its hierarchy. This comes amid a reported headcount reduction of over 5,000 employees in the third quarter of FY 2024-25.
In an interview with Business Standard, TCS Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) Milind Lakkad explained that quarterly headcount changes don’t necessarily reflect the company’s overall growth or demand, as its hiring plans are structured annually. “We manage workforce requirements through employees on the bench, productivity enhancements, and operational adjustments,” he said.
AI Skills Crucial Across All Levels
Lakkad highlighted that AI is being integrated into various business functions and is now considered an essential skill across the company’s hierarchical pyramid, spanning levels E0 (entry-level) to E3 and above:
- E0 (Entry-level): Foundational understanding of large language models (LLMs) and their applications.
- E1: Ability to work with LLM APIs, akin to prompt engineering skills.
- E2: Proficiency in using TCS’s proprietary GenAI tools.
- E3 and above: Advanced AI expertise applied across domains.
“AI will transform jobs, but rather than eliminate roles, it will redefine them,” Lakkad noted. He stressed that client-facing and knowledge-intensive roles will still require human insight and empathy, which remain irreplaceable despite advances in AI.
Degrees Still Essential
Addressing the broader demands of the services industry, Lakkad emphasized the importance of degrees, which provide the foundational understanding necessary for TCS’s multifaceted roles. “We need more than just coding skills; a broader educational base is critical,” he added.
Navigating Workforce Changes
The company’s hiring strategy contrasts with its recent headcount drop, reflecting its long-term vision to adapt to changing industry demands. By equipping employees with AI skills and prioritizing human roles in complex tasks, TCS aims to maintain its leadership in the IT services sector.
This recruitment drive underscores the growing importance of AI proficiency as the IT industry continues to evolve rapidly.
Sources By Agencies
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