24 Seven, one of the largest privately held marketing, creative, and digital talent solutions firms in the U.S., has released its AI Impact Report: How Marketing, Creative & Tech Teams are Transforming. The 2025 study, based on responses from nearly 1,000 professionals across industries, reveals unprecedented AI adoption rates and a shift toward flexible, blended talent models.
Key findings include:
-
91% of organizations now use AI in daily operations
-
86% plan to hire for new AI-focused roles within the next 12 months
-
75% report increased budgets for AI talent compared to last year
-
Yet, 32% of employees report only basic or very limited AI fluency
“We’re witnessing a seismic shift in how organizations approach AI talent,” said Anthony Donnarumma, CEO of 24 Seven. “The traditional model of building capabilities exclusively through full-time hires has given way to more agile, blended approaches.”
Flexible Talent Models and Strategic Partnerships on the Rise
The research underscores a growing reliance on contractors, consultants, and staffing partners to bridge AI skills gaps:
-
81% of respondents say contractors and consultants help close AI capability gaps
-
61% currently partner with staffing firms to source skilled AI talent
This signals a major departure from the old model of hiring solely full-time AI specialists. Companies now prioritize agility, access to expertise, and role-specific skills, often through blended teams that mix internal staff with external talent.
“Organizations need partners who can provide not just AI-savvy talent, but big-picture guidance on AI implementation and workforce development,” Donnarumma added.
Implications for Marketing, Creative, and Tech Leaders
While adoption is widespread, the report highlights urgent upskilling needs. Nearly one-third of the workforce still has minimal AI fluency, creating a risk that technology investments may not fully translate into business impact. Companies that combine talent sourcing with training, governance, and strategic guidance are likely to gain a competitive edge in efficiency, innovation, and creativity.
24 Seven’s 2025 report confirms what many industry observers have noted: AI adoption is no longer experimental—it’s a core operational imperative that demands flexible, future-ready talent strategies.
Join thousands of HR leaders who rely on HRTechEdge for the latest in workforce technology, AI-driven HR solutions, and strategic insights
