The future of South African food & beverage jobs

In a rapidly evolving job market, the future of employment is a topic that continues to intrigue both job seekers and industry experts alike. The idea that the jobs of the future may not even exist today is a concept that has long been discussed, but now, with technological advancements and changing landscapes, we are closer than ever to being able to predict and prepare for the transformed jobs of tomorrow. In a recent interview on CNBC Africa, Sherrie Donaldson, Project Director for the Atlas Project, shared insights into the process of analyzing and mapping out potential elements of future jobs where humans and technology intersect. Donaldson explained that the Skills Technology Foresight Methodology, which was adopted in 2015, plays a key role in predicting future job trends. This methodology involves bringing sector stakeholders together for facilitated dialogues to envision the future of the sector, drill down into specific jobs and competencies, and ultimately produce an 'atlas of emerging jobs' that provides guidance on career paths and skill development. The collaboration with the Foodbiv CETA has resulted in the identification of 21 new and emerging jobs and 10 transforming jobs within the food and beverage manufacturing sector. These new roles are centered around key areas such as energy security, water security, waste management, food security, and circular economy, reflecting the growing emphasis on sustainability and technology in the industry. The partnership also involved academia, labor, and business representatives, ensuring a comprehensive approach to envisioning the future job landscape. One of the main challenges posed by these new and transforming jobs is the complexity of skill requirements and the transition process for current employees in the food industry. While some roles may merge traditional skill sets, others demand more specialized technical expertise. Donaldson emphasized the importance of taking a nuanced approach to each job transition, recognizing that a 'one size fits all' solution does not apply in this scenario. Addressing the readiness of young job seekers, particularly those coming out of academic institutions with general degrees, Donaldson highlighted the technical nature of many of the new jobs identified in the atlas. While a BA degree may not directly align with these specialized roles, the atlas framework provides a roadmap for identifying the necessary hard and soft skills required for each job, facilitating a smoother transition for young professionals. With the insights gained from the atlas of emerging jobs, the Foodbiv CETA and its partners are better positioned to adapt to the evolving job market, integrate new technologies, and upskill the workforce to meet the demands of tomorrow's food and beverage industry. By leveraging the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders and embracing the principles of foresight methodology, South Africa is poised to navigate the future of employment with confidence and preparedness.