AI Spurring a Quiet Revival in Entry-Level Hiring, Suggest Public Company CEOs

While a recent wave of layoffs is often attributed to AI, a fresh global study suggests that the technology might actually spark a resurgence in hiring, particularly for entry-level positions.

According to an annual outlook study by advisory firm Teneo, released this month, leaders of public firms predict AI will generate more entry-level jobs by 2026. Sixty-seven percent of these executives anticipate increased entry-level hiring due to AI, with 58% also planning to expand senior leadership teams.

The study highlights increased recruitment for roles in engineering and fields related to AI. Many current positions are being adapted as automation takes over certain tasks.

The survey gathered data from over 350 CEOs of global public companies with revenues of at least $1 billion, as well as approximately 400 institutional investors, collectively managing portfolios valued at $19 trillion. The findings challenge the commonly held belief that AI is entirely eliminating jobs.

"AI isn't eradicating the workforce; it's transforming it," commented Ryan Cox, the global head of AI at Teneo.

Investment Surge in AI

The rise in hiring aligns with a significant increase in corporate investment in AI. Sixty-eight percent of CEOs plan to boost AI spending next year, slightly higher than the 66% in 2025. Almost 90% of CEOs believe AI is helping their organizations handle instability effectively.

Expectations are mounting with this level of investment. A majority of investors anticipate seeing measurable results from AI projects in under six months. However, only 16% of executives at large companies, with revenues exceeding $10 billion, think such swift outcomes are feasible.

Transformation of the Workforce

As firms announce layoffs associated with automation, concerns grow over AI's impact on job security.

In a November earnings declaration, HP revealed plans to cut 4,000 to 6,000 jobs by 2028 to save approximately $1 billion. Similarly, IBM disclosed intentions to reduce its workforce by a small percentage in late 2025.

However, this shift isn't simply about machines replacing humans. IBM's CEO, Arvind Krishna, mentioned in a CNN interview in October that while the company is reducing some staffing, it is simultaneously reallocating resources toward AI and quantum computing. Plans to hire more college graduates in the coming year are underway. In conversation with The Wall Street Journal, he noted that AI's adoption is also increasing demand for programmers and sales personnel.

AI not only redefines old roles but creates new job titles, such as 'decision designer' and 'AI experience officer,' as highlighted by workplace experts in a Business Insider report earlier this month. These positions aim to guide AI systems and enhance collaboration between humans and AI.