Super Jobs

The potential for collaboration between humans and AI opens the door to a new category of roles - what some are calling super jobs. These roles emerge when technology transforms not just how we work, but the very nature of the work itself. They blend human judgment, creativity, and emotional intelligence with the power of intelligent machines, data, and algorithms. As Josh Bersin, a well-known global HR industry analyst, educator, and thought leader has observed, the most forward-thinking organisations aren’t just using AI to cut costs—they're using it to expand what people are capable of.

Of course, technical upskilling plays a part. However, the real opportunity lies in how these productivity gains can free people to do more of the work that energises them. The work that adds meaning and keeps a career interesting over time. As one Talent Developer says, “What is the Renaissance version of your job, where you stand on the shoulders of technology to pursue new things?”

It’s a powerful question, and not an easy one to answer. So far, we’re getting better at identifying which tasks AI can take over. But far fewer leaders are asking: What do we want our humans to do, if they had more time?

Some organisations are beginning to answer. At Unilever, for example, the introduction of “Wellbeing and Purpose Leads” is helping teams connect their day-to-day efforts to a greater sense of meaning and personal fulfilment. These roles didn’t exist before, but now that AI has taken up some of the administrative burden, there’s space to consider how people feel about their work.

Others are focusing on connection. At GitLab, “Culture Champions” are embedded across the company to foster shared values, team cohesion and psychological safety - essential ingredients in a remote, AI-supported workplace.

And at Novartis, the new role of “Curiosity Coach” is less about technical training and more about sparking reflection, exploration, and interpersonal growth. Doesn’t that sound fun? I might sign up for the job myself!

These are human-to-human roles; relational, thoughtful, and grounded in culture. They’ve been made possible because AI has taken some of the cognitive heavy lifting. They are, in effect, the Renaissance version of a job: made richer by the very technologies that once threatened to replace them.

The shift to super jobs won’t be linear. It will raise questions about skills, careers, and fairness. But if we keep asking the right questions - about purpose, connection, and what work is for - we may find ourselves with better jobs and better working lives.