What if talent management no longer had geographical limits? As organisations embrace remote and distributed teams, AI is rapidly transforming how we hire, onboard, and manage employees across borders. 

At TechHR Singapore 2025, the Think Tank Panel explored this shift, delving into AI’s role in reshaping global workforce management. Moderated by Karen Ng, Regional Head of Expansion - North and South Asia at Deel, the discussion brought together industry leaders Joanna Yu, People Team, Nansen and Frank Koo, Founder, Nextplay. They shared insights on how AI is revolutionising productivity, compliance, performance management, and ethical decision-making in a remote-first world.

AI-driven efficiency: Cutting time, boosting output

The panellists shared firsthand experiences of how AI is revolutionising workplace productivity. Joanna Yu illustrated how Nansen, a fully remote crypto analytics startup, leveraged AI to boost efficiency. Rather than relying on formal AI training programs, the company provided employees with paid AI tools immediately, allowing them to experiment and integrate AI into their daily workflows. 

Over three quarters, AI-generated code accounted for 42% of their software development. Joanna also trained a custom AI model to mimic her writing style, automating employer branding content and leadership communications.

Frank Koo echoed these insights, emphasising AI’s role in eliminating administrative burdens. “AI is not just a tool, it’s a virtual co-worker,” he noted, detailing how AI has helped automate recruitment processes, improve decision-making, and optimise workflows in his organisation.

Redefining HR processes: From months to days

One of the most compelling examples came from Joanna’s experience of building a competency framework. What typically takes six months to a year was reduced to just two days with AI tools like ChatGPT and Complexity AI. This allowed HR teams to shift from administrative tasks to strategic talent development.

Similarly, AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants transformed customer service at Nansen. Response times, which previously stretched to 500 hours, were slashed to just 10 minutes, demonstrating AI’s role in accelerating both employee and customer experiences.

Performance management: Data-driven and bias-free

AI is also challenging outdated performance management systems. Joanna shared how Nansen replaced subjective reviews with an AI-powered evaluation system based on network feedback. Employees rate their peers based on collaboration and contributions, while managers use AI-driven insights for calibration. This approach removes biases, ensures fairness, and creates a more transparent performance review process.

Frank highlighted the wider implications of AI in HR, stressing that while AI can automate evaluation criteria, human skills like mentorship and emotional intelligence remain irreplaceable. “AI should support, not substitute, human judgement,” he remarked.

Finding balance: Automation and the human element

While AI offers unprecedented efficiencies, the panel emphasised the need for balance. AI should handle data-heavy, repetitive tasks, allowing HR leaders to focus on strategic, people-first initiatives.

Joanna and Frank also shared how AI is enhancing personal productivity. Joanna’s custom GPT, named Winston, helps her draft content, while Frank uses AI-powered learning tools to process complex academic material in an audio format. Their message was clear: AI isn’t just for work, it’s a tool for both professional and personal growth.

Conclusion: the AI-powered HR leader

As AI reshapes talent management, HR leaders must embrace it as a strategic partner rather than a replacement for human expertise. The panel underscored that AI is an enabler—driving efficiency, fostering equitable workplaces, and freeing HR professionals to focus on what truly matters: people.

Karen’s closing remark captured the essence of the discussion: “You don’t have to wait for permission, just start using AI and uncover new possibilities.” As organisations navigate this AI-driven transformation, those who actively experiment and integrate AI into their strategies will thrive in a borderless world