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In 2025, in-house legal and compliance hiring will evolve at greater speed, driven by demands for emotional intelligence, inclusive workforces, and leadership development.
The legal and compliance job market is changing in big ways, according to BarkerGilmore’s 2025 Market Outlook. Companies are no longer just looking for legal knowledge—they want leaders with strong communication, emotional intelligence, and team-building skills. Diversity and leadership development are also top priorities, creating new opportunities for professionals in these fields.
Soft skills are a must have
Gone are days when top legal and compliance roles were hired based on their education and technical knowledge. Now, companies want more. They are looking for general counsels (GCs) and chief compliance officers (CCOs) who can lead teams, solve problems creatively, and communicate effectively with different stakeholders. Soft skills like emotional intelligence, public speaking, and business understanding are no longer “preferred” or “nice to haves”. Instead, they are essential.
This means hiring is becoming more selective. Companies are using new tools and approach to find candidates who not only meet technical requirements but also fit their organisation’s culture and long-term goals.
Building future leaders
Companies are no longer waiting to invest in leadership development. They are putting more effort into growing their internal talent. Leadership coaching for mid- and senior-level employees is on the rise, helping companies prepare for the future. By investing in coaching from experienced GCs and CCOs, organisations are ensuring their teams are ready for leadership roles when the time comes.
Diversity remains key
Despite news about some companies cutting back on diversity efforts, BarkerGilmore’s report shows that most organisations remain committed to building diverse and inclusive teams. Diversity is not just about fairness. It is about bringing different perspectives to the table, which can lead to better decision making and stronger results.
Leadership changes are coming
With a strong economy and post-election optimism, many senior GCs and CCOs are choosing to retire, creating openings for the next generation of leaders. This turnover is also leading to opportunities for mid-level professionals to step up and advance their careers.
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