Shaping the future of technology talent: Insights from Adam Shapley

Adam is the Managing Director of Technology and Technical Workforce Solutions at Hays for Australia and New Zealand. He has dedicated his career to understanding the evolving dynamics of the technology workforce and shaping the future of recruitment across the region. His professional journey has been defined by a commitment to delivering practical, forward thinking solutions for organisations navigating the complexities of talent acquisition, workforce planning and digital transformation.

His operational responsibility at Hays spans the recruitment and advisory services delivered across the technology, digital and project services sectors. He leads a team of consultants specialising in temporary, contract and permanent recruitment, as well as best practice advisory services. This hands on leadership role keeps him closely connected to market realities, client needs and the aspirations of the professionals Hays represents.

As a member of the Australia and New Zealand management board, Adam shares responsibility for setting the strategic direction and growth of the business across the region. This role provides him with a unique vantage point to observe and influence the trends shaping the industry and to advocate for the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and innovation.

Adam serves as the key spokesperson for the Hays IT Contractor Rates Guide FY25/26, a role he views as both a privilege and a responsibility. The Guide is the result of extensive research and engagement with contractors and employers across Australia and New Zealand. It offers comprehensive analysis of market rates, emerging trends and the factors influencing supply and demand in the IT contracting sector.

The insights in the Guide are grounded in real world data and informed by the collective expertise of the Hays team. As the principal author and spokesperson, Adam is accountable for ensuring the accuracy, relevance and practical value of its findings. His goal is to provide organisations and professionals with the information they need to make informed decisions in a market that is both cautious and full of opportunity.

Skills shortages continue to present challenges with three quarters of employers reporting ongoing difficulty securing the right talent. Intermediate level expertise remains particularly scarce and competition is strong in areas such as data governance, cyber security and cloud computing. Employers are increasingly turning to contractors for their agility and ability to address project specific needs.

Human skills including communication, adaptability and critical thinking are becoming just as essential as technical capability. These competencies are viewed as critical for successful project delivery, especially as AI and automation reshape the workplace.

Engagement models are also shifting with a growing move towards shorter, outcome based contracts, particularly for AI related projects. Employers are seeking greater visibility and value, moving away from long term, open ended arrangements. Contractors, in turn, must plan proactively and adapt to these evolving models.

While significant increases in contractor rates have eased, the overall trend remains upward with more than two thirds of employers reporting marginal rises over the past year. Contractors are optimistic about future earning potential while employers continue to balance budget considerations with the need to secure top talent.

Adam's professional identity is closely tied to the ideas and insights expressed in the Guide. He remains committed to upholding the highest standards of credibility, transparency and thought leadership within the industry. By sharing these insights, he aims to equip organisations and professionals with the knowledge needed to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the IT contracting market with confidence.

He believes the future of technology recruitment will be shaped by leaders who are willing to adapt, innovate and act with purpose. As the landscape continues to evolve, Adam remains dedicated to supporting clients, candidates and the broader industry.