Insights

The market has entered 2026 in a more selective, but still active phase. Hiring demand hasn’t disappeared, it has sharpened. Businesses are focusing investment on areas that directly impact growth, efficiency and transformation, particularly across technology, data, product and commercial leadership.

Contract and freelance hiring continues to lead this shift. Organisations are increasingly prioritising flexibility, bringing in specialist talent to deliver defined outcomes across AI, digital transformation and revenue-driving initiatives. This is no longer a short-term fix, but a core part of workforce strategy .

Permanent hiring remains steady but more deliberate. Pipeline constraints are playing a bigger role than demand itself, with fewer active candidates in the market. As a result, when businesses do hire, decisions are faster, more focused and centred on high-impact roles .

At a leadership level, demand continues to rise. Organisations are navigating increased complexity across AI adoption, regulation and growth strategy, which is driving sustained need for experienced C-suite and board-level talent to provide direction and execution .

Across all markets, one theme is consistent. Quality, speed and specialisation are now more important than volume. The ability to access and secure the right talent, quickly, is becoming a clear competitive advantage.