AI, digital capability and human leadership have emerged as key future skills priorities for Guernsey’s finance sector, according to a recent survey we've conducted in partnership with the Guernsey International Business Association (GIBA).

With AI mentioned in approximately 80% of responses, the findings highlight the growing importance of technology in the workplace, alongside the continued need for strong leadership, communication and critical thinking skills.

We invited finance professionals from across the island to share their views on the capabilities Guernsey’s finance sector will need to thrive in the years ahead.

A total of 64 senior finance professionals responded, providing valuable insights into emerging skills needs and helping to inform our course development for 2027 and beyond.

AI and digital capability lead future skills priorities

The survey gathered views from professionals working across Guernsey’s finance sector, including funds, trust, insurance, banking, wealth management, asset management, accountancy, pensions, legal and other areas.

Respondents identified using AI in the workplace, working with digital assets and sustainable finance as key areas where both individuals and teams currently need further development.

AI emerged as the dominant theme, featuring in approximately 80% of responses.

However, the findings suggest that AI should not be viewed as a standalone technical skill. Instead, it is likely to influence a wide range of future capabilities, including digital transformation, regulatory understanding, sustainable finance, data literacy, client engagement and decision making.

Human skills remain essential in a changing workplace

While technology is becoming increasingly embedded in the workplace, the survey also reinforces the importance of human skills.

Respondents highlighted the need for leadership development, people management, communication skills and access to specialist regulatory expertise.

Future critical skills identified in the survey included:

  • Adaptability and resilience

  • Communication and collaboration

  • Leadership and change management

  • Critical thinking

  • Personal effectiveness

Together, the findings suggest that developing technical capabilities alongside human skills will be important in preparing Guernsey’s finance workforce for the future.

Combining technology with human expertise

Commenting on the findings, Joanne Peacegood said:

“AI has the potential to fundamentally change how our industry works, improving productivity and enabling our people to spend more time on the higher-value work where their expertise, judgement and relationships really matter.

The current Guernsey AI Sprint is a great example of all industries coming together to build practical understanding and confidence in how AI can be used effectively and responsibly.

This survey reinforces the importance of that work. If Guernsey can combine the deep expertise and human skills that have always been strengths of our finance sector with the opportunities presented by AI and new technology, we can strengthen our competitiveness and ensure our workforce is equipped for the future.”

Our CEO, Simon Le Tocq, added:

“It is perhaps unsurprising that AI is the predominant theme emerging from the survey but encouraging to see the value placed on human skills. AI is changing the way we work, but it isn't replacing the need for human judgement, leadership and adaptability-it makes those skills even more valuable.

The organisations that succeed won't simply adopt new technology; they'll create a culture of continuous upskilling so their people can use it responsibly, creatively and strategically. These findings give us a clear direction for how we can help Guernsey's finance sector build the workforce it needs for the future.”

Shaping future learning opportunities for Guernsey

The survey findings point to three connected areas of future skills development:

  • AI and digital capability

  • Technical and regulatory expertise

  • Human leadership skills

We will use the results alongside GIBA to support further discussions with industry and help inform future learning opportunities for finance professionals and organisations across the island.

As we look towards 2027 and beyond, these insights will help shape how we continue to support Guernsey’s evolving workforce development needs.

Looking to develop your skills or support your team's professional development?

Explore our current courses and development opportunities at www.gta.gg.