The Founders Summit “Polar Express” this year brought together business leaders, investors, and industry experts to summarise the year and outline the key vectors for development in 2025–2026. The event focused on investment trends, market potential, business transformations, and the role of human capital in times of change. One of the key participants was Avalon’s HR Director, who joined a panel discussion moderated by Yaroslava Pavlenko (HRD) and delivered a clear, practical perspective on the transformation of the labour market and modern approaches to building effective teams.

 

During the discussion, the most relevant topics of the industry were addressed. In particular, the HR Director highlighted the main labour market trends for 2025–2026, noting the intensifying competition for qualified talent, the shift toward a competency-based model, and the growing importance of HR analytics. The sectors expected to experience the biggest changes include technology, development, and professional services, where demands for speed and quality of decision-making continue to rise.

 

A separate emphasis was placed on the changing behaviour of candidates. In recent years, their priorities have shifted from purely financial offers to a more comprehensive assessment of the employer: culture, stability, transparent management, development opportunities, and balance. What used to be a competitive advantage—such as an office or a standard benefits package—is now perceived as a baseline, while true differentiation comes from a sense of meaning and belonging.

 

In the block “Employer Brand Without Embellishment”, the HR Director stressed that real value is created not by visual campaigns but by three things: honesty, manager behaviour, and the actual employee experience inside the company. Marketing can attract attention, but only truth backed by daily practice can retain people.

 

Another significant part of the discussion focused on the high-stress nature of the development sector. Under such conditions, it is crucial to build resilient teams capable of working in an environment of uncertainty. Here, culture, system thinking, and strong management play a decisive role. The HR Director presented Avalon’s approaches: clear processes, transparent rules of engagement, regular feedback, and a focus on supporting teams through education, mentorship, and a healthy work dynamic.

 

The conversation also touched upon younger generations and their interest in the construction and development industry. Despite stereotypes, there is meaningful potential for alignment. Young professionals are motivated by the opportunity to see tangible results, contribute to large-scale projects, and influence the urban environment. The company’s task is to communicate these opportunities properly and create conditions for long-term professional growth.

 

Participation in the Founders Summit was an opportunity to reflect on the year, share experience, and exchange perspectives with leaders from other companies. For Avalon, such events are not only a platform for dialogue but also an important step in shaping a strong, resilient, and motivated labour market in Ukraine.