Market update, January 2026
The New Year has started on a distinctly positive note. We’re seeing an increase in roles being registered with us, particularly across transformation programmes and strategic delivery functions. We’re currently looking specifically for programme managers, change leads and digital transformation specialists, as demand is increasing across sectors. We are hearing that large transformation projects are being green light, and organisations are investing in the right people to help realise their change agendas. If you are considering your next move, send your CV our way.
Across the wider economy, there are also encouraging signals that the market is positioning itself for growth and investment through 2026. Below, we share our market update for the last quarter of this financial year.
Wage growth slows
Recent data from the Office for National Statistics shows that private sector wage growth has eased to its slowest pace in five years, with regular earnings rising by around 3.6%. This deceleration is being viewed positively by policymakers and economists; and for business leaders, it creates a more predictable backdrop for planning hiring and longer-term investments. This stability gives organisations greater confidence to initiate or scale Change and Transformation programmes.
AI Adoption
According to McKinsey’s State of AI research, nearly two-thirds of companies report that they have not yet scaled AI across the business. While experimentation is widespread, most are still figuring out how to embed the technology strategically. This presents a real opportunity for Change and Transformation professionals who can help organisations design, pilot and operationalise AI-enabled processes, and we are expecting to see an increase in demand for candidates that can help bridge the gap between innovation and implementation.
Change during constant disruption
Change itself is evolving. Recent articles from Forbes and Harvard Business Review argue that traditional approaches to change leadership – linear models with a clear start and end – are no longer sufficient. Companies are operating in environments where multiple interdependencies and shifting priorities are the new normal, and success depends on engaging individuals with tailored messages, alongside the ‘big story’. Listen to Sandie Bakowski talk about this in more detail. Watch here.
UK Digital Transformation Market
The UK’s digital transformation market is expanding rapidly, with estimates valuing it at over USD 70 billion. This is being powered by public sector mandates, sustained venture funding, and large deployment of next generation technology, including 5G and fibre. Forecasts show a 17.2% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) through to 2030 – This level of investment will drive demand for skilled professionals capable of delivering complex cross-functional transformation work.
What next?
2026 is the Year of the Horse in Chinese Zodiac, and it is already shaping up to be a year of momentum and opportunity for change, transformation and digital hiring.
If you’re a candidate looking for a new opportunity, now is the time to speak to us. We are working on new roles regularly and can help match you to opportunities that align with your goals.
If you’re a hiring manager or planning to expand capability in 2026, now is a great time to get ahead. We can help you find the right people to make those programmes successful. Contact us to discuss how we can support your hiring needs with market insight and tailored resourcing solutions.