Hey there! Kristen here again, founder of Rockrose Executive Search.
Every week, I handpick the most important news shaping where the tech and finance worlds are heading. As I write this, I can’t help but feel the jitters—AI is moving at lightning speed, and I’m always thinking about how to help you stay ahead of the curve.
I’m constantly experimenting with new AI tools to upskill myself, and I’ll keep sharing useful tips in upcoming posts.
Meanwhile, here’s this week’s…
Top 3 Signals
1) 100 things Google announced at I/O
Google laid out its vision of AI as the new interface for how we live and work. From natural language search to AI assistants built into your phone, and even smart glasses powered by Android XR OS—AI is now embedded into the fabric of everyday experiences.
➤ Why it matters: Google’s direction redefines how we access knowledge and interact with technology. It’s no longer about building apps; it’s about designing intelligent, responsive environments. Product, design, and engineering talent must now think agent-first.
Read more: https://blog.google/technology/ai/google-io-2025-all-our-announcements/or check out our post recapping the key highlights: https://rockrose.xyz/google-i-o-2025-keynote/
2) OpenAI acquires Jony Ive’s AI device startup io for $6.4B
OpenAI is acquiring io, the AI devices startup founded by Jony Ive, the legendary designer best known for shaping Apple’s most iconic products, including the iPhone, iPod, and MacBook, in an all-equity deal worth $6.4B. Ive will take on deep creative and design responsibilities across both OpenAI and io, while his creative collective LoveFrom remains independent.
➤ Why it matters: This move signals OpenAI’s belief that powerful AI needs to be embodied in thoughtful, human-centered tools—not just software. The next wave of innovation will be shaped by those who operate at the intersection of technology, design, and real-world understanding.
Read more on CNBC and https://openai.com/sam-and-jony/
3) Singapore data centers hit capacity—Malaysia emerges as the next hub
With Singapore facing land and energy constraints, hyperscalers and cloud providers are turning to Johor, Malaysia, for their next phase of data center growth.
➤ Why it matters: As infrastructure shifts, so do jobs. This trend could create new tech and operations roles in Malaysia—especially in Johor—while also increasing cross-border hiring for specialized talent. For job seekers in this field, it’s a sign to watch where the demand for data center, cloud, and facilities expertise is moving next.
Read more: https://theedgemalaysia.com/node/754383
💡 Headhunter’s Lens
Out of curiosity, I asked five candidates I interviewed this week where they’ve had the most success landing interviews. The common answer? Through a recruiter or headhunter.
And the common challenge across all five? LinkedIn EasyApply. One even said she doesn’t bother applying when she sees a high volume of applicants.
LinkedIn is supposed to help employers find the right candidates, and candidates find the right jobs. So what’s missing? 🤔
🚀 Executive Move to Watch
Eric Chan → Uniplan
Uniplan, a brand experience agency, has appointed Eric Chan as Executive Creative Director for its Hong Kong office. He will oversee creative direction for all projects under the Hong Kong office, as well as lead experience design initiatives across the Greater China region, reporting to Judd Christie, CEO of Uniplan Greater China.
Full details: https://marketech-apac.com/uniplan-appoints-eric-chan-as-executive-creative-director-for-hong-kong-office/
📬 One to Forward
📺 Bloomberg’s interview with JP Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon on stagflation, US-China trade, underwriting CATL listing and the China economy.
Check out Haslinda Amin’s post on Linkedin, or watch the interview here:
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