Digital skills to recruit for in 2026

When thinking about recruitment for next year, we expect there to be significant growth and competition for talent. There are also areas which aren’t expected to expand as much.  

Looking forward, we look at the skills worth investing in, and those which might be on the out.  

On the growth trajectory 

Areas expected to fuel job growth are those related to artificial intelligence, machine learning, and ‘green tech’. 

The most in-demand roles in AI are engineers. They are capable of developing new models and algorithms, according to the London School of Economics. The school also notes that gaining exposure to AI doesn’t necessitate a university degree. Accelerators, colleges, and specialist programmes can give candidates the same skills.  

The LSE also suggests that data junkies are in high demand. Both data scientists and analysts examine large amounts of data to pull out trends. The school says of these skills: “Both careers are set to be one of the best jobs to have in the digital era far beyond 2024.” These experts are likely able to help senior leaders pull actionable insights from CRM systems and fundraising data.  

While it’s of no surprise that AI and data jobs are in demand, other digital skills see growth into the future.  

Cloud computing architects are in demand. Hays recruiting says that individuals that can master cloud storage through platforms like AWS, Azure or Google Cloud are at an advantage. They note the top skills are an open-mind to new cloud technologies, programming and automation.  

Finally, roles in digital transformation also continue to be sought-after. True bread and butter roles, professionals that can manage change processes continue are well positioned for jobs. The key skills to look for are: 

• Planning and management – professionals need to be able to take a project from conception to implementation.  

• Strategic thinking – roles may also include considerations around how the transformation fits into the organisational goals.   

• Business analysis – individuals may also need to identify which areas will benefit the most from transformation.  

• Tech foresight – having an idea of what the future might hold could inform decision making.  

• Training and development – the transformation leader may also need to teach new skills to other colleagues.  

Digital skills not on the up 

Other digital areas aren’t expected to grow as much. Cybersecurity jobs appear to be declining. The UK Government’s take on it shows that the number of jobs decreased by 32% in 2024. They attribute this to generally poor macroeconomic conditions. However, there is a bright spot – the Government does expect the specialism to pick up over the next few years albeit at a sluggish pace.  

Recruiting strategy 

Bringing on the right people at the right time is always tricky. First, a practical perspective. Roles that are in high demand come with big salary expectations. This is especially true for professionals who are already established in their careers.  

For charities looking to add AI, cloud computing, and transformation specialists to the staff roster, budgets might not always match up with salary expectations. Hiring managers might want to consider bringing on staff that have newly graduated or who are just starting out in their careers.  

Second, being flexible increases the chances of successful hiring. A great candidate may be found in someone who might want a contract or project-oriented role. Another avenue to pursue are digital volunteers. There might be a cache of talented tech pros who simply would volunteer their time over accepting a job.  

Additionally, searching for talent is ongoing.  Despite the slight downturn in cyber security roles, for charities hiring it could be a be a time to pick up someone who you might not otherwise be able to afford.  

Our third tip for hiring digital transformation professionals is to constantly be on the lookout. Many of these candidates have transferrable skills for transformation is complete. Project management, business analysis, budget keeping, and people leading are all areas which charities can benefit from.  

Last, when recruiting, AAW Partnership recommends underscoring the benefits. They might include: