Demand for specialist technology talent is continuing to accelerate as businesses increase investment in artificial intelligence and digital transformation. That’s according to global talent solutions and business consulting firm, Robert Half.

The firm’s latest proprietary job posting database reveals significant growth in hiring for AI-focused roles between Q1 2025 and Q1 2026.

Demand for AI Engineer roles and AI Product Managers has surged by 81% and 80%, respectively, while demand for Data Governance Managers has increased by 79%.

While demand for Machine Learning Engineers has grown at a more moderate 24%, the data suggests that hiring is expanding across the broader AI ecosystem, from technical delivery to strategic oversight.

This reflects a more mature approach to AI adoption, with businesses building structured capabilities rather than isolated use cases.

Beyond AI, organisations are continuing to prioritise data-led performance and infrastructure modernisation.

Cloud and Infrastructure, Business Intelligence and Data Analytics roles made up over 16,800 job postings in Q1 2026. This trend highlights the importance of strong data foundations and scalable systems to support ongoing digital transformation.

The sustained growth across both AI and core technology functions indicates that businesses are taking a long-term approach to capability building, investing in talent that can deliver both immediate impact and future innovation.

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“Demand for AI and transformation talent is accelerating as businesses move from exploration to implementation,” Craig Freedberg, Regional Director at Robert Half, commented.

“What we are seeing now is a shift towards a more structured investment in talent, with companies hiring not only technical specialists but also leaders who can embed AI into wider business strategy.

“At the same time, the continued growth in data and cloud roles underlines that AI success depends on having the right foundations in place.

“Businesses are recognising that to unlock the full value of emerging technologies, they need the right mix of skills across data, infrastructure and leadership.”