Business Analysts (BAs) sit at the crossroads of business and technology. They’re the translators, the problem-solvers, and often the unsung heroes who make strategy real. At Talenza, we believe the BA role is more critical than ever - and the recent Next Gen BA: The Future of Business Analysis panel in Sydney proved just that.

Hosted by AJ Walters and Adam Higgins from Talenza, and featuring panellists Briana Ertanin (Transgrid), Michael Augello (IIBA Global), Paul Kelly (ASX), and Kalindi Chhabra (Zurich Cover-More), the session brought together BAs, leaders, and aspiring talent to explore what’s next for the profession. The message was clear: the BA of the future will be defined by mindset, not just methodology.

Beyond documentation: the skills that matter

The panel highlighted that future-proof BAs need more than technical know-how. Strategic thinking, adaptability, and the ability to engage stakeholders are the new non-negotiables. As one speaker put it, “It’s about moving from being the note-taker to being the trusted advisor.”

Communication, empathy, and curiosity were described as “hard skills” - essential for influencing executives and guiding teams through change. These qualities set high-performing BAs apart and build careers that last.

Career pathways are wide open

For those mapping their careers, the opportunities are diverse. From Senior BA roles to stepping into Product Owner or Delivery Lead positions, or even leading a BA practice, the growth paths are broad. The advice from the panel was practical: stretch yourself, seek mentors, and be open to roles that test your limits.

Importantly, there’s no single “right path.” Each career move builds capability - whether it’s gaining exposure to agile delivery, banking projects, or large-scale transformations.

The role of AI in shaping the BA profession

AI sparked plenty of conversation. Far from being a threat, it was framed as a tool that will free BAs from repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus on higher-value work. The consensus: automation will only make human-centric skills like empathy and storytelling more valuable.

Why this matters for leaders and jobseekers

For organisations, investing in skilled BAs means smoother transformations and better outcomes. For candidates, the profession offers resilience and variety in a shifting market. The panel underscored that the BA community isn’t just about job titles - it’s about people with the curiosity to solve problems and the drive to connect strategy with execution.

At Talenza, we see this every day. The best outcomes happen when BAs are empowered to step beyond the “translator” role and actively shape the future of work. That’s why we’re committed to supporting the BA community with insights, career advice, and genuine partnerships.

Final word

The future of Business Analysis is exciting, people-driven, and wide open for those ready to evolve. Whether you’re a BA looking to take the next step, or a leader wanting to build capability in your team, the time to invest in these skills is now.