Nils Geradin, Principal Consultant at Hanson Search, recently attended VivaTech 2025. The event brought together people and companies tackling some of the major changes shaping business and technology. As a talent partner working across global tech, sales, marketing and communications, he left with the view that change is taking hold—shaping not just technology, but also growth and innovation.
AI Innovation Leads Digital Transformation
Artificial Intelligence dominated this year’s event. From generative tools and robotics to highly personalised healthcare solutions, AI wasn’t just a concept, it was operational. Real-time translation devices and intelligent assistants capable of automating complex tasks were on display, showing how rapidly these technologies are advancing.
One standout area was health tech, where AI-powered solutions included robotic aids and wearable devices that track mobility and prevent falls among elderly patients. These innovations go beyond efficiency, they’re enhancing safety and making technology more human-focused.
Climate Tech Becomes Central to Business Strategy
This year Climate Tech was driving the conversation. From clean energy startups to global companies including TotalEnergies, the focus was on delivering real-world impact. Sustainability is no longer a side project. It’s now deeply embedded in products, business strategies and hiring needs. There’s a growing demand for talent who can combine deep technical expertise with the ability to communicate the value of green technologies clearly and persuasively.
Global Tech Ecosystem Expands Across Borders
VivaTech showcased an international tech scene with areas for Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas. It wasn’t just the diversity of attendees that stood out, it was the way startups are scaling globally from the outset. This means recruitment strategies must adapt. Companies now need leaders and teams who can operate seamlessly across different regions and cultural contexts.
Legacy Brands Drive Innovation in New Directions
Established companies are evolving fast. LVMH, for example, demonstrated how luxury brands are embracing technology, from virtual retail and AI-powered customer experiences to sustainability initiatives. These organisations are adopting a startup mindset when it comes to tech innovation, with a strong focus on hiring digital-first talent and driving rapid transformation.
VivaTech Conversations Offer Valuable Insights
VivaTech wasn’t just about technology, the real value came from the conversations happening throughout the event. From workshops with early-stage founders to keynote sessions with high-profile speakers including Emmanuel Macron and NVIDIA’s CEO, the discussions were open, thought-provoking and focused on what’s ahead.
Key Takeaways for Tech & Communications Talent
For those of us in recruitment and executive search, particularly in tech and communications, VivaTech reinforced one message, the skills companies need are evolving fast.
It’s no longer just about developers or engineers. Today’s organisations are seeking Storytellers, Brand strategists, Crisis specialists, Sustainability experts and Strategic thinkers. Technology has moved from behind the scenes to centre stage, shaping public debates, influencing consumer behaviour and driving business decisions. The need for specialised talent has never been greater.
Tech’s Future and the Talent Driving It
VivaTech 2025 wasn’t just another industry event. It highlighted how quickly technology is evolving and how purpose-driven innovation is becoming central to business. For business and communications leaders it delivered a clear message, the next chapter of tech won’t be shaped by engineers alone, but by those who can translate innovation into meaningful, lasting value.
At Hanson Search, we partner with businesses across technology, communications and marketing to help them find the best people to lead and grow. From digital and AI to sustainability and brand strategy, we support companies in the UK, Europe, the US and Middle East with hiring talent who bring the right mix of skills, experience and perspective. If you’d like to discuss your hiring needs or learn more about how we can help, please get in touch.
Career Enquiry