Next generation work
Working longer, robotization, digitization, computerization, changing demands and standards of employees etc. The current labor model is constantly changing. This presents organizations, employees and society as a whole with major challenges.
In the context of “Future of work”, we carry out research and give advice on challenges of the labor market, labor organization, social dialogue, the future of jobs, sustainable HRM and sustainable careers. Together with our partners, we develop a sustainable vision on the future of work, focusing on the importance of co-creation and taking into account the vision of all stakeholders. The individual/employee, the team, the organization and the broader ecosystem are all addressed. Through state-of-the-art academic and practical scientific research in collaboration with various partners and stakeholders, we arrive at practical recommendations and solutions to meet the challenges of the future labor market.
Overall research topics
Sustainable employability
Automation, digitization, globalization: varying trends in the VUCA (Volatile-Uncertain-Complex-Ambiguous) world are changing our jobs and the way we work. This means that organizations and employees need different expertise and skills to keep up with this changing world. Sustainable employability and inclusion are thus more important than ever, so we can meet the challenges of the future.
Sustainable careers
Career policy is no longer about a static matching of employees with jobs, but rather about a dynamic approach to change, focusing on workability, employability, growth and connection in the short and long term. A successful and sustainable career policy ensures that employees and organizations reinforce each other. In addition, we need to be aware of the ever growing flexible and hybrid nature of careers, including topics such as freelance careers, managing ‘flexible talent’ and ‘co-sourcing’.
Within the chair 'Next generation work: Creating sustainable careers', AMS - in close cooperation with SDWorkx - conducts extensive research into sustainable careers.
How we strengthen the dialogue about work through multiple channels
We connect these research lines to current themes, trends, and challenges in the workplace, such as:
- addressing taboos like menstruation, motherhood, menopause, part-time work among men, …
- shaping social dialogue with trade unions and employee participation;
- the impact of climate adaptation;
- freelancing, gig work, and polyworking;
- lifelong learning for blue-collar workers;
- …
SD Worx Chair: Building Sustainable Careers
Since 2011,SD Worx and Antwerp Management School have joined forces in the Next Generation Work: Creating Sustainable Careers chair to research what sustainable careers mean today. Under the leadership of Professor Ans De Vos, we translate scientific insights into concrete tools for HR and business leaders. From total workforce strategies to learning culture and career mobility, we help organisations prepare for the future of work.
Co-creation as a driver of sustainable research
Together with our partners, we develop a future-proof vision of work. Co-creation is central to this approach: we incorporate the perspectives of all stakeholders, from individuals and teams to organisations and the broader ecosystem. In this way, we translate scientific insights into concrete, actionable solutions for the workplace of tomorrow.
We actively invite our partners to contribute to the valorisation of our research, for example through webinars or contributions to blog articles.
De brug tussen onderzoek en opleiding
De inzichten uit ons onderzoek naar duurzame loopbanen en welzijn vertalen we ook naar het opleidingsaanbod van Antwerp Management School.
In onze HR-programma’s leren professionals hoe ze evidence-based HR-beleid kunnen vormgeven, met aandacht voor mens, organisatie én maatschappij.
December 16, 2025
The millennial manager: why age-inclusive leadership is no longer optional
Age-inclusive leadership boosts motivation, engagement, and collaboration across generations. Discover the four pillars for leading diverse teams. ...
October 17, 2025
Working longer? Here’s how to turn age into an asset ...
The labor market is aging, but persistent clichés and taboos around workers over 55 still ...
October 13, 2025
The war for talent calls for a different kind of ...
The war for highly educated talent remains fierce, even in times of economic uncertainty. While ...
October 06, 2025
Polyworking in Belgium: why more people are combining multiple jobs
More and more Belgians are deliberately opting for polyworking: they combine a permanent job with ...
Events
May 20, 2026
AMS Golf Trophy 2026
Join us for another exciting edition of the AMS Golf Trophy at the stunning Ternesse Golf Club. Whether you're an experienced golfer or picking up a club for the first time, there is something for everyone. Take part in the friendly 18-hole 4BBB competition, compete in the 9-hole Executive Course ...
May 29, 2026
Webinar: Who will finance the future? The role ...
Sustainable finance is increasingly shaped by geopolitical tensions, market and regulatory uncertainty, and the need ...
More info & RegistrationJune 09, 2026
Three years of research on workplace wellbeing. What ...
During the Wellbeing Works closing event, Professors Kathleen and Eva will present the key insights ...
More info & registration
News
January 28, 2026
Bart Willocx named Public Manager of the Year
Bart Willocx, AMS alumnus of the Master in Public Management and President of the Antwerp Court of Appeal, named Public Manager of the Year 2026. ...
December 02, 2025
Antwerp Management School and BDO Belgium join forces for a ...
Antwerp Management School and BDO Belgium enter into a three-year strategic partnership to strengthen the ...
November 17, 2025
Antwerp Management School awarded ‘Pioneering Employer’ label for its focus ...
Antwerp Management School has been recognized as a Pioneering Employer 2026, a label awarded to ...
November 14, 2025
Trends Impact Awards celebrate sustainable entrepreneurship in Belgium
The Trends Impact Awards recognize organizations that have successfully translated their sustainability strategies into concrete ...
