The State of TA 2026

It's here. The most important TA report of the year.

Powered by proprietary data and expert insight, this report digs into hiring capacity, efficiency, and the shifting shape of TA — with actionable strategies to future-proof your function in 2026's unpredictable market.

The full report is live now. Download it today!

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Where you’ll gain insight

Talent Teams & AI Infrastructure

Talent teams are rewiring for the future as AI moves from an add-on to core infrastructure. Discover how the shift toward strategic, senior-led models is helping teams optimize resources and increase capacity with confidence.

Headcount Planning & Agility

Hiring is recovering after years of volatility but many teams still feel stuck in "all-out sprint" mode. Explore how the most successful organizations are balancing maturing planning cycles with the need for high-speed execution in an all-out sprint.

Skills Demand & Internal Mobility

AI and ML skills are the next great frontier for talent acquisition. We look at how teams are balancing external hiring with internal development to close specialist gaps and create more sustainable talent pipelines.

EVP Authenticity & Sourcing Success

Sourcing remains a top priority and a major area for innovation. We reveal how revamping your EVP with a focus on mission and values can reduce friction in the funnel and attract high-quality talent in 2026.

Access the latest trends and insights, download the report below!

Meet our contributors

Chris Abbass
CEO, Talentful & Founder, HIGHER

Matt Norell Head of Talent Kraken

Robert Galas Head of Talent Acquisition Shapr3D

Bethan McAulay Head of Talent Astroscale

Robbie Simpson Global Head of TA Glovo

Piret Luts Global TA Lead Nortal

Don Fogarty Head of Talent Attio

Jason Gingrich Head of Recruiting Atomic Semi

Ben Lopez Sr. Manager of TA APAC & EMEA Workiva

Alexandra Stone Head of Talent, Culture, & Engagement, The Adaptavist Group

Paul Else Director of People Stark Future

Amanda Johnson Sr. Director, Global TA DeepL

Phillip Reese Global Head of TA Klaviyo

Jared Bazzell VP, Global Head of TA Aristocrat

Jerome Leclercq Global Head of TA Wise