An report from Outsized reveals a significant shift in hiring practices across Southeast Asia, as companies increasingly engage independent professionals to enhance their capabilities and accelerate growth. The 2025 Talent on Demand Report highlights that organisations are paying between USD 250 and USD 1600 per day for skills in high demand, such as strategy, data analytics, digital transformation, core technology, and marketing.
Freelancer registrations in the region have surged by 88%, reflecting a growing trend towards flexible workforce models. This shift is particularly pronounced in sectors like renewable energy, e-commerce, digital financial services, and supply chain transformation, where specialised expertise is required to navigate complex challenges.
“Businesses are moving beyond traditional workforce models by integrating independent talent with permanent teams,” said Anurag Bhalla, CEO and managing director (APAC) at Outsized. “This hybrid approach not only accelerates execution but also enhances innovation capabilities.”
Among the most sought-after skills, the report identifies project management, product management, marketing, and data analytics as critical areas. For instance, project managers in Malaysia earn between US$225 and US$835 daily, while strategy consultants in Indonesia can command rates from US$425 to US$1,250. In Singapore, business transformation specialists average US$575 to US$1,200 per day.
The report also notes that firms in consulting, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and financial services are particularly adept at leveraging independent talent to scale their operations. This agility is crucial as companies face the pressures of rapid digital transformation and the ongoing impact of automation.
As organisations adopt these new talent strategies, they are fundamentally reshaping how they compete in the marketplace. The report provides a roadmap for business leaders, enabling them to benchmark talent costs, optimise hiring budgets, and identify emerging workforce trends across Asia-Pacific and beyond.
The findings underscore the importance of adapting to a transforming workforce landscape. By integrating independent professionals into their operations, companies not only enhance their flexibility but also position themselves advantageously in an increasingly competitive environment. As digital transformation continues to unfold, the ability to tap into on-demand talent will be pivotal for sustained growth and innovation in the region.
