IT’S that “New Year, New Me” time again. As we’ve entered 2026, finding that brand new job, is on many a resolution list. As the jobhunting frenzy ensues – we decided to gauge from our Datafin Recruiters which jobs they believe will be the most in-demand this year. Datafin’s 2026 job forecast predicts AI vs Sales as the skills most wanted in the job market.
Top contender for 2026 is proving to be any job where you can showcase your AI abilities. But hot on its heels, our Consultants predict this year will see a growing demand for positions in the more human-centric industry of Sales.
As Artificial Intelligence continues to revolutionise the landscape of business, employers are urgently in pursuit of professionals with AI skills. To ensure they remain at the forefront of cutting-edge tech to boost productivity and ultimately a rise in company revenue.
According to a recent article on iAfrica.com, AI literacy is becoming a prerequisite to have on your CV – “even in roles not traditionally linked to technology.”
“A year ago, AI experience was often viewed as an added advantage on a résumé. Now, many employers assume candidates have working knowledge of AI tools used for summarizing information, analyzing data, drafting content, assisting with research and automating workflows.
“The expectation is becoming more visible across functions such as marketing, customer support, finance, human resources and operations. While job listings may not explicitly state that AI skills are required, interviews and performance discussions are increasingly reflecting the shift,” the article further stated.
The latest report released by SAP indicated that two-thirds of organisations in Africa were proactively introducing career development initiatives. These include AI specialisation aimed at upskilling or reskilling their current workforce.
Datafin Co-Owner Lindy Sollinger also believes AI and Sales professionals will be in great demand. Alongside data-driven roles like Machine Learning and Cybersecurity.
“I predict a steady upsurge in the demand for Machine Learning and AI skills, coupled with an increase in the need for Cybersecurity roles. DevOps and Technical Sales skills will also be in demand, with Business Development skills right up there at the top.”
This year iAfrica.com reported that being hired won’t be determined by your niche skillset. Rather, your ability to “work alongside AI tools”.
“Rather than focusing on coding or specialist technical expertise, the change is centered on the ability to work alongside AI tools to improve productivity, decision-making and output. In 2026, that capability is increasingly shaping hiring outcomes.”
This sentiment is shared by Senior Recruiter, Chantel Taylor. She predicts this year will see local employers move further away from traditional ‘silos’. Having teams more integrated – with shared information and workflows.
“Based on my recruitment experience from 2025 and the changes happening in SA I would say companies are looking for more evolved Software Development, Cloud Computing, and Data Analysis, candidates who can incorporate AI skills to advance them on automation and become more digital. Overlapping skills, integration and not working in ‘silos’,” Taylor explains.
Last year we noted a marked increase in the demand for Sales staff. We believe this year will be no different.
Recruiter Jade Lowe has a desk piling up with roles from companies looking to hire Salespeople. This proves “client-facing” roles – not yet mastered by AI – means humans are still very much in demand.
“So, my findings are that other than the AI requirement in other spheres, we are approaching the year of Business Development, Sales and Account Management. Companies are looking for Telesales, SDR’s (Sales Development Representatives) and all roles that are client-facing and can’t be done by AI,” says Lowe.
