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The skills your company needs in 2026

Hazel Leong
Published Date15 Days Ago
The skills you company needs in 2026: Winning the talent race in Singapore

The skills race is heating up in Singapore 

Singapore’s future of work is changing fast. Automation, sustainability, and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming how businesses operate and the skills they need to stay competitive. 

The Hays Asia Salary Guide 2025 found that 79% of employers in Singapore struggle to fill roles in technology, finance, and sustainability. The World Economic Forum also reports that nearly half of all workers will need new skills by 2027. 

        “In 2026, success depends on how you plan, not just how you hire.” 

 

1. The most in-demand skills for 2026 

Based on Hays research, these are the top skill sets shaping in-demand jobs Singapore will see next year: 

  • Digital skills and transformation talent – Jobs in AI, automation, and data analytics are growing fast. Many companies now use generative AI to make work faster and more efficient. 
  • Cybersecurity – Hybrid and remote work environments mean protecting data and managing risk are now critical technical skills. 
  • Green jobs in Singapore – As more companies focus on sustainability, demand for roles in ESG, renewable energy, and green finance continues to rise. 
  • Project management and soft skills – Employers want flexible team members who work well with others and can handle digital projects confidently. 
  • Leadership and learning – In a hybrid workforce, great leaders inspire growth and empathy. They support learning and development, which helps attract and keep top talent. 

 

2. Why skills gaps are widening 

Singapore’s job market is evolving faster than many talent pools can adapt. 

Companies are adopting AI tools and new digital skills faster than employees can learn them. This creates a growing gap between what businesses need and what teams can do today. 

        “The challenge isn’t a lack of people — it’s keeping skills up to date in real time.” 

 

3. Building a workforce for the future 

Forward-thinking employers are improving workforce planning and talent strategies: 

  • Train from within: Build both technical and soft skills through ongoing learning and development. 

  • Use a hybrid workforce: Blend permanent staff with contract experts for flexibility and faster results. 

  • Plan ahead: Align future skill sets with company goals to stay ready for market change. 

With insight from Hays Singapore, employers can strengthen their talent pools, close gaps, and prepare for tomorrow’s business needs. 

        “At Hays, we help you shape the future of work — one skill at a time.” 

 

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