The role of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) is undergoing a significant transformation, evolving from cost-effective operational hubs to strategic drivers of innovation and growth. As we look towards 2025, GCCs face a unique set of challenges that demand proactive strategies and adaptable leadership. This article delves into the critical hurdles impacting GCCs, including talent scarcity, rapid technological change, geopolitical complexities, regulatory compliance, cultural integration, innovation demands, and the evolving landscape of remote work. By understanding and addressing these challenges, GCCs can solidify their position as vital contributors to global business success
Top Challenges faced by GCCs in 2025
- 1. Talent Scarcity and Skill Gaps:
The demand for specialized skills in areas like AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics continues to outpace supply.
GCCs struggle to attract and retain talent in highly competitive markets.
Upskilling and reskilling existing employees to keep pace with technological advancements is a constant challenge.
Availability of T2 and T3 resources in the market is very challenging as the emerging technologies are niche and new.
- 2. Rapid Technological Advancements and Digital Transformation:
GCCs must constantly adapt to emerging technologies and integrate them into their operations.
Maintaining legacy systems while transitioning to cloud-based solutions and AI-driven processes is a complex undertaking.
Ensuring cybersecurity in an increasingly complex digital landscape is a top priority
- 3. Geopolitical Uncertainties and Economic Volatility:
Global economic downturns and political instability can impact GCC operations and investment decisions.
Changing trade policies and regulations can create uncertainties for multinational corporations.
Supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions can affect business continuity
- 4. Data Privacy and Regulatory Compliance:
GCCs must comply with increasingly stringent data privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA.
Protecting sensitive data from cyberattacks and data breaches is a critical responsibility.
Navigating the complex regulatory landscape in different jurisdictions is a challenge for global organizations
- 5.Cultural integration:
Global Capability Centres (GCCs) have grown from simple back-office operations to vital players in business transformation.
Despite advanced technology, efficient processes, and access to top talent, many GCCs face challenges with an often-overlooked element—cultural integration.
It’s more than just celebrating local events or using global communication tools.
True cultural integration involves aligning values, ways of working, and mindsets between the GCC and its parent organization
- 6. Maintaining Innovation and Agility:
GCCs need to move beyond operational efficiency and become centres of innovation.
Fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration is essential for driving business growth.
Adapting to changing market demands and customer expectations requires agility and responsiveness
- 7. Remote and Hybrid Work Management:
Managing a distributed workforce and ensuring effective communication and collaboration is a challenge.
Maintaining employee engagement and productivity in a remote or hybrid work environment is crucial.
Addressing the challenges of cybersecurity and data privacy in a remote work setting is essential.
Employee engagement with Gen Z and Alpha becomes even more challenging in remote work model
Sources :
Future of Jobs Report 2023″ – World Economic Forum ; NASSCOM reports on talent trends in the Indian IT sector; Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and Articles discussing the evolution of GCCs from cost centres to innovation hubs
Author Details
Ram Kondapalli
GCC Leader | Operational Excellence | Ex-Deloitte
