Future-Proof Your Career in Project Management & Business Administration: 5 Trends You Can’t Ignore

By Rachel (Rae) Roberts , Careers Consultant, University of London Careers Service

From AI to ESG, the world of Project Management and Business Administration is evolving rapidly. Whether you're just starting out or looking to future-proof your career, understanding the trends shaping this space is essential. Here’s what’s transforming the landscape—and how you can stay ahead.

💡AI is Reshaping Roles, Not Replacing Them 

According to the 2025 AI Index by Stanford HAI, 78% of organisations reported using AI in 2024—up from 55% the previous year. In project management, AI is streamlining workflows, enhancing forecasting, and even assisting with stakeholder communication. 

❓How can you ensure you’re ready to make the most of AI to boost your career? 

Pro Tip: Hear how professionals are adapting to AI in real-time in this episode of the Global Careers Calls Podcast, featuring University of London Alumni Ambassadors Dr. Adi Walker and Zainab Salim Khan .

♻️ ESG is Now a Core Business Priority 

98% of S&P 500 companies disclosed ESG-related information in 2022, according to the Center for Audit Quality. ESG is no longer a side initiative; it’s central to how businesses operate and how projects are evaluated. 

❓What does growth in this area mean for your career?  

Pro Tip: If you are looking to work on ESG-driven projects across the globe, explore international roles in Business Administration and Project Management on our Vacancies Board ( University of London students and recent graduates)

💯 Geo-Political Risk Management is a Must-Have Skill 

Geopolitical conflict is the top risk for CEOs in regions like the Middle East and Central & Eastern Europe, according to PwC’s 2025 Global CEO Survey. From trade disruptions to regional conflicts, project managers must be equipped to assess and mitigate these risks. 

❓How can you develop your employability skills to be equipped to navigate these risks? 

Pro Tip: Build your Adaptability & Resilience to thrive in uncertainty. Explore the top 10 skills in more depth and gain additional certification on your degree transcript in the Global Employability Skills Micro-Module ( University of London students).

⚙️ Transdisciplinary Teams & Evolving Workplace Culture 

As organisations face increasingly complex challenges, the ability to work across disciplines and cultures is becoming a defining skill. A study on transdisciplinary collaboration from Purdue University’s Innovation Hub highlights that integrating diverse knowledge and methodologies is essential for innovation in business and project management. 

At the same time, workplace culture is undergoing a transformation. According to the International Labour Organisation, digitalisation, hybrid work models, and shifting employee expectations are reshaping how teams function and thrive. 

❓How can you be prepared to work effectively across cultures and disciplines? 

Pro Tip: Explore GoinGlobal’s Culture Wizard and global career tools through the ‘Global Jobs and Opportunities’ Tile on the Careers VLE (University of London students).

🔍 Want to Learn More? Join Us on 1st July at 1pm UK Time 

I will be speaking to industry professionals from across the world to help you learn about the diverse roles, industries, and how to navigate your career path. Sign up now (UoL students and recent graduates).