HR leaders expect AI to take over two-thirds of routine work by 2026

AI adoption accelerates as Singapore HR teams take on broader roles with fewer resources.

HR teams in Singapore are increasingly turning to automation and artificial intelligence as global hiring accelerates and job functions expand, according to Remote’s Global Workforce Report 2025.

The study, which surveyed more than 3,600 business leaders across 10 countries, including 250 in Singapore, found that local HR leaders expect AI to assume a significant share of administrative work within the next two years.

65% of Singapore HR leaders anticipate that two-thirds of their routine tasks will be automated by the end of 2026 as organisations seek to streamline compliance, payroll and workforce management across multiple markets.

The shift comes as companies in Singapore continue to hire internationally and HR functions take on broader responsibilities despite limited headcount.

The report showed uneven adoption of AI tools in hiring: 31% of Singapore HR leaders have stopped using at least one AI tool due to concerns over fairness, accuracy or compliance, while 28% have introduced new AI systems into their workflows.

The findings also highlighted rising experimentation across workplaces.

28% of HR leaders suspected candidates had used AI during interviews or assessments, while 24% observed employees using AI tools without guidance. Nearly a quarter saw employees independently automating parts of their roles, and one in five encountered concerns from staff about privacy or fairness in AI deployment.

As HR teams grow leaner, the report pointed to deliberate and measured AI use as a key factor in improving efficiency. Automating repetitive tasks, particularly in payroll and compliance, is expected to free up capacity for strategic work such as retention, culture building and long-term workforce development.

Tool fragmentation remains a major challenge. Half of Singapore HR leaders surveyed are considering replacing their existing HR systems because they struggle to manage too many disconnected platforms. Many are seeking single, integrated solutions capable of handling global payroll, compliance and reporting needs.

Despite shrinking HR teams, expectations for the function continue to rise.

Over the next three years, Singapore HR leaders said high-performing teams will need to personalise employee experiences at scale, compete effectively for talent and integrate performance and development functions more seamlessly.

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